Testimony from a Great Mates chairwoman about the power of giving

PALMETTO --When in doubt, lean on our community of faithful people who give more to help those with greater needs.

The ladies of Great Mates at "All dat Jazz" fundraiser on March 6 for Family Promise.

I have never felt quite so humbled as I was at the conclusion of the Bradenton Yacht Club's Great Mates Community Outreach Charity fundraiser on March 6 honoring Family Promise of Manatee County.

I walked into the evening knowing that our committee had done its best setting the stage for one of the most spectacular events in our eight year history of the Great Mates annual events for local charities.    

I did, however, not feel confident that we would make our projected target of $55,000.00 due to sponsorships being down. In addition, our attendance was being reduced by 18 percent.

But in the end the attendees bid high during the live auction and supported the silent auction and two entry raffle items.

At the close of the evening, people opened up their check books for outright donations resulting in a net amount of $59,000.00 for Family Promise of Manatee.

This record setting figure will enable Family Promise to hire a full-time case worker to assist in all of their very special clients, the local homeless families with children. 

I am still at a loss to express my appreciation to not only our committee, but also to the unbelievable generosity of the attendees and the support of Manatee County.  

My heartfelt appreciation to all those who helped the Great Mates help Family Promise.

Sydney Shaurette is the community outreach chairwoman for the Great Mates of the Bradenton Yacht Club.