Volunteer Spotlight: Norma Eliscu Banas, Ed.D.

For the past two years, I participated in The Patterson Foundation’s event. This year, I attended as a volunteer. I was immediately aware of the sincere smiles and welcoming of staff, other volunteers, and visitors. The atmosphere was so positive and dynamic that I felt welcome and enthusiastic. The Patterson Foundation’s personnel were patient, positive, and knowledgeable.

In talking with a few people from The Patterson Foundation, I noted their awareness of needs and desire to make changes to improve performance. I went away with a real desire to become a part of this organization. I will continue to be available as a volunteer if they can use me.

Jessica Pineda Wins A $1,000 Honorarium

By Lyndsey Smith

Excitement filled the Turner Center as attendees connected with exhibitors and explored DeSoto County’s many resources. With completed passports in hand, they headed to the Exhibitor Command Center, where Alicia and Lyndsey eagerly asked where they would donate the $1,000 Honorarium if they won. Heartfelt stories were shared, passports were rubbed for luck, and anticipation grew as the grand prize drawing began. After a few drawings, a winner was finally chosen—Jessica Pineda!

When asked how she felt upon hearing her name, Jessica said, “I was shocked. I couldn’t believe it until she started spelling it out!” She chose Strollin’ 4 A Cure as the recipient of her donation, sharing, “As a breast cancer survivor celebrating five years cancer-free, this organization is close to my heart. When I was first diagnosed, I didn’t know where to start. Someone connected me with Janet Preston, the founder, who provided resources and support. Though I was fortunate to have great insurance, I know others face challenges. I truly appreciate the blessing of her work and the time she spent with me.”

Jessica also reflected on the importance of events like the DeSoto County Ahead Resource Fair: “These events bring our community together. They inspire change, foster growth, and show us everyone has something they can share. Thank you for everything. I’m glad to be part of the change coming to our community.

“Philanthropy is not about money. It’s about using whatever resources you have at your fingertips and applying them to improving the world.”

– Melinda French Gates

The DeSoto County Ahead Resource Fair: A Showcase of Connection and Collaboration by Lyndsey Smith

The 2025 Desoto Ahead Community Update Exhibitors Resource Fair was an incredible opportunity to connect with 67 dedicated organizations serving our community. This year's event exceeded expectations, showcasing the collaborative spirit that makes DeSoto so special.

A particularly moving moment came as attendees submitted completed passports—earned by collecting at least 25 stickers from visiting booths—for a chance to win an honorarium. Many shared heartfelt stories of how local groups had touched their lives, a powerful reminder of these organizations' lasting impact.

More than just an event, this celebration of unity and possibility showcased what we can achieve together and reinforced our shared vision to Build Our Future with Every Voice!

Join us for DA4A Symposium

Join us for Suncoast Connect: Innovating and Thriving in the Digital Age, on Tuesday, March 11, and Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at The Ora in Sarasota, Florida. Suncoast Connect includes a keynote, plenary, breakout sessions, panels, flash presentations, and innovative learning opportunities in the three essential elements of digital access: connectivity, devices, and skills training and support. Learn more and register. 

The Selby Foundation team enjoyed creating new relationships and nurturing old ones at The Patterson Foundation's DeSoto County Community Resource Fair on January 8, 2025.

The Key to Overcoming Anxiety, Anger, and Apathy By Sophia Antoine, Sacred Sunflower Wellness Solutions

I am still experiencing the effects of the Harwood Summit. There are four words that really resonated with me from that very special time that I spent with my small group: Anxiety, Anger, and Apathy. I know that’s only three, but I will get to the fourth one in a bit. Anxiety, Anger, and Apathy were the topics of our small group discussion. I am not really sure why I signed up to be a part of this particular group, but I was drawn to it. As I sat in the room with the others, I listened. I wanted to hear why the topic moved the others. I wanted to know if they had the right to feel as they did. After all, they looked as if they hadn’t a care in the world. What I learned was, in our own ways, we were saying the same things; we wanted the same things. This issue in my community is the issue in their community. We want to be whole. But now? We have to BEGIN (there’s that fourth word). Nothing happens until we begin. Begin to listen. Begin to be vulnerable. Begin to care. Begin to realize that we are part of one big community.

Read Sophia’s full blog here.

Fly Far with PR and

CWC-FPRA

This month's spotlight features the Central West Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, a network of public relations, marketing, and communications professionals from Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties who come together for professional development and to build a network of peers. As part of the oldest statewide public relations association in the country, CWC-FPRA takes pride in its 50-plus-year history of delivering engaging programs and advancing the professional growth of its members.

One such program is Mission Mavericks, which provides pro-bono communications support to local nonprofits in severe need. CWC-FPRA launched Mission Mavericks in the Fall of 2023 and selected the Children's Guardian Fund as its inaugural nonprofit beneficiary. Over a four-month period, the chapter drafted press release templates, conducted a one-on-one website design consultation, and developed a human-interest story pitch around a laptop donation drive initiative. The second annual cycle of the program is currently underway.

If you're interested in participating in Mission Mavericks, questions may be directed to Traci Willingham, CWC-FPRA Community Liaison, at community@cwcfpra.com. For more about CWC-FPRA, visit cwcfpra.com.

The Device Drive

By Marla Smith

The Patterson Foundation has been actively working in DeSoto County for several years, leading initiatives like Digital Access for All and collecting devices to support the Sarasota Technology Users Group (STUG). STUG wipes and refurbishes donated devices, returning them to the community for those in need. These devices can open doors to education, healthcare, and job opportunities.

We called on the DeSoto community to donate old computers, monitors, printers, tablets, smartphones, and drives—and the response was incredible! Generosity was on full display as people contributed devices to make a difference. So far, we've collected 396 donations across four counties!

A huge thank you to the amazing volunteers who helped at the donation table. And thanks to the DeSoto Library, donations are still being accepted until February 15 at 125 N. Hillsborough Ave, Arcadia, FL 34266.

Thank you, Desoto County, for an Unforgettable Night By Alicia Exantus

When I was asked to take on the role of exhibitor lead for the DeSoto Ahead Community Update 2025 Resource Fair, I had no idea how I would be moved by the experiences and stories that would unfold. Every time I work with the DeSoto County community, I am continually amazed by their selflessness, kindness, and commitment to positive change. Their genuine willingness to help others and their sense of community are nothing short of inspiring. As I reflect on the evening of January 8, spent with 67 incredible organizations, I am eager to share a few unforgettable moments that captured the true spirit of DeSoto County.

Continue reading to learn about those moments.

Connecting Communities: Building Bridges at the DeSoto County Ahead Event By  Maria Schaedler-Luera

On January 8, I had the privilege of volunteering as a TPFer at the DeSoto County Ahead event. My role included welcoming attendees at the registration table, where I experienced firsthand the community’s enthusiasm and engagement. One of the highlights of the evening was the number of attendees who came because they were personally invited by someone they knew. This demonstrates the incredible power of word-of-mouth in building a connected and engaged community. It was heartening to see neighbors bringing neighbors, a testament to the trust and bonds.

People of all generations came together to share ideas, build relationships, and celebrate new possibilities. Moments like these highlight the value of creating spaces that foster meaningful engagement.

As someone who wears many hats—from Patriot Plaza tour coordinator to co-lead of the ESOL/ELL initiative—I was especially thrilled to meet veterans from DeSoto County. One veteran I spoke with is now planning a visit to Patriot Plaza.

These interactions reinforced the power of creating accessible opportunities and cultivating one-on-one connections that inspire deeper participation. The DeSoto County Ahead event reflected the strength of community and collaboration.

I’m grateful to have played a small part in such a meaningful gathering and look forward to seeing how the connections made that night continue to grow.

Read Maria’s full blog here.

Let’s Get it Started! DeSoto Public Innovators Lab

By Alicia Exantus

More than 50 inspiring local leaders recently gathered virtually to kick off the Harwood DeSoto Public Innovator Lab orientation, with the Lab coming to the Turner Center Annex in Arcadia. This was a significant first step in a journey that equipped participants with the mindset, tools, and practices needed to create meaningful change in their communities.

During the Zoom meeting, there was a discussion about how the Public Innovators Labs would provide the essential framework to "Turn Outward," understand what truly mattered to people, and take action. The first Lab, Getting Started, focused on the fundamentals of this approach and set the stage for action-driven change. A second Lab, Unleashing Impact, is planned for the fall or when the timing is right, bringing this group full circle.

DeSoto County participants' genuine passion and commitment stood out during the discussion.

When asked why they were here and how they plan to engage with this work, we heard

responses like:

• "I want to listen and keep an open mind."
• "I want to show up prepared and engaged."

When asked what made the Harwood approach stand out, participants noted:

• "This is action-based, not just planning."
• "This is solution-oriented."
• "This is inclusive and focused on lasting change."
• "This approach allows us to have a say in the change that will happen."

Learn more here.

Apply to be a Selby Scholar

The Selby Scholarship program has long been known for its investments in incredible youth--not just those with excellent academic records but students with an interest in using their education to help others. Selby Scholars are seniors graduating from high school and pursuing a 4-year degree at an accredited college or university anywhere in the country. They have demonstrated leadership; they are resourceful and possess grit.

In addition to receiving a renewable scholarship in an amount based on individual financial need, Scholars can access continuous programs throughout the year, including mentorships, learning sessions based on student input, and social opportunities with other students.

Learn more about becoming a Selby Scholar here or contact Senior Scholarships Manager Kiarra Womack at KWomack@SelbyFdn.org.

March 1: Selby Foundation Scholarship Application Closes