As a community, we have faced so many challenges in the past few years that it is almost too much to process. In spite of it all, we have a whole lot to be grateful for. A few of the things I’m most grateful for and blessings I’ve witnessed include:
The youngest of my four children graduated college! It’s a pretty big deal for Mr. Hogan and myself. Now we can start imagining what life looks like when the kids are not kids anymore.
Sunseekers Resort opened offering us, not just a new event venue and new yummy restaurant choices, but when Hurricanes Helene and Milton barreled through - Sunseekers opened up rooms and partnered with FEMA sheltering folks who lost it all.
The second phase of the Family Services Center (FSC) opened and has provided a lovely home for the Gulf Coast Partnership and countless other non-profit organizations. This would not have happened without the vision and leadership of Carrie Walsh and the support of County Commissioners and Administration.
Stars Academy is open and operating! The center is located at 2230 Hariet St. in Port Charlotte. Stars Academy provides early education for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Stars creates a safe, enriching environment where children can thrive academically and socially. Stars serves up to 100 children. Start up support was provided by the American Red Cross and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.
Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic launched their awesome Mobile Medical Clinic. This groundbreaking initiative was made possible by a generous grant from the Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners. The Mobile Medical Clinic provides essential healthcare services to uninsured individuals. Suzanne Roberts’ passionate leadership not only shines at VBA but the Gulf Coast Partnership is grateful for her service as our Board Chair through these difficult past few years.
The Charlotte CARE Center (formerly Homeless Coalition) was smoothly transferred to St. Vincent de Paul CARES. There was a time this summer when it looked like our community could lose our only shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Michael Raposa and his team from St. Vincent de Paul CARES took a huge leap of faith investing money and human resources so this vital service could remain available to people in crisis. It is impossible to measure my gratitude!
Charlotte County Emergency Management helped us navigate two unprecedented storms. Our community is beyond blessed to have such a dedicated team of compassionate experts who work tirelessly to keep us all updated, informed, and safe, especially during times of crisis and disaster.
Team Rubicon, Samaritans Purse, Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, World Central Kitchen, Operation Barbeque Relief, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and dozens more. Thank you for coming once more to feed, shelter, dig out, and rebuild our community.
The election is over and no matter what team you’re on Charlotte County was a winner with some folks I deeply respect keeping or gaining positions to advocate for and guide our community. Congratulations to Leah Valenti, Bill Prummell, Bill Truex, TJ Thornberry, Danny Nix, Joseph Tiseo, Stephen Leskovich, Kim Amontree, and Bob Segur – we are lucky to have you.
The Punta Gorda Housing Authority has completed Verandas III to help address the need for more affordable housing options in Punta Gorda and Charlotte County. Verandas III includes 72 apartment homes, located at the northwest corner of Airport Road and Cooper Street in Punta Gorda. Verandas III includes four 3-story buildings with 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartment homes that feature open floor plans, granite countertops, energy-star appliances and balconies/porches. The timing of this project opening is opportune, Kurt Pentelecuc and the Housing Authority Commissioners deserve a standing ovation!
We are heading into December soon and my firm wish is that we can end the year with a peaceful and joyous celebration with friends both new and old.
Consider celebrating the end of this wild year with us, at the 16th Annual Mistletoe Ball on December 14th at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This event is in support of the Charlotte CARE Center and is a critical investment in the lives of the families, friends, neighbors, and US heroes who enter the doors of the center seeking help. To become a sponsor or to purchase tickets, visit: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E332080&id=88
With gratitude,
Angela Hogan, CEO
