Young Islander Tie-Dying for a Cause

BRADENTON BEACH – When 5th grader Grayson Chatt heard that the Anna Maria Island Community Center was struggling financially, he got an idea. Having recently become interested in the art of "tie-dying" after his class made them in school, he figured he could use the shirts he was making to help out. The shirts will be sold at the Beach Market at Coquina Beach on July 20 and 27 to benefit the cause.

"I thought it was so fun and interesting that I decided to do them at home," explained Grayson. "When I heard that the community center was having money problems, I figured I could do this to help." So he went to see Joan at J & J Graphics and she helped, donating her time to print the shirts and then selling them at cost.

"What I hope to achieve through the sales of my tie die shirts is to hopefully raise enough money to make an impact on future events for the community center," said Grayson. "They are such a big part of the community and I hope to be able to help keep them that way."

Grayson wearing one of his custom shirts

Grayson feels that the community center makes a big impact for people of all ages. From crafts to sports, to camps and before and after school programs many kids develop interests that stay with them for life. "I find it very cool that they don't turn kids away from being a part of any of the events, sports or camps they offer, even if they can't afford to pay," he said.

Come out to the Beach Market at Coquina Beach and purchase these special tee shirts and help keep the Anna Maria Island Community Center alive and well on AMI. The Beach Market is open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, or ride the Free Trolley which brings you right to the market. Contact Nancy Ambrose at 941-518-4431 for more information.