February 2026 Newsletter Content | | |
New Date | New Location | Register Today!
Join us for this Impactful Conversation to Gain a Comprehensive overview of Martin County's health landscape. The discussion will highlight successful public and private initiatives that are already making a difference, providing valuable context for future philanthropic efforts aimed at improving health in our community. Don’t wait to Save your Seat!
Register Now
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May 2026 be filled with joy, laughter, prosperity, and good health for us all.
Warmly,
| | President, Impact100 Martin | |
Congratulations to Our Semifinalists
We are excited to announce the Impact Grant semifinalists for the 2025–2026 grant cycle. Each semifinalist will submit a full application, project video, and detailed budget by February 18.
SemiFinalist Projects and Organizations:
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CareBag Mobile Shower Unit – Martin County - CareBag
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Compassion House: Transitional Shelter and Family Restoration Program - The Salvation Army
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Hope in Motion - Hope Center for Autism
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Kiwanis Park at Woodlawn: “Music in the Park” and ADA Swing Project - Kiwanis Club of Stuart
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NextGen Veterinary Clinical Simulation and Skills Lab Project - Education Foundation of Martin County
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Purchase of a New Digital X-Ray Machine for Veterinary Clinic - Humane Society of the Treasure Coast
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River Scout II: A New Voyage - Environmental Studies Council
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WildLab on Wheels - Hobe Sound Nature Center
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Wildlife Education Update - Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital
A heartfelt thank-you to our Grants Committee, who have been working diligently since early December reviewing Letters of Intent. Their work continues as they evaluate full applications later this month and conduct site visits in early March.
Finalists will be selected based on committee evaluations, financial assessments, budget reviews, and site visit feedback. These finalists will be presented to the full membership in late March, allowing members time to review proposals, budgets, and videos ahead of voting at the Grant Awards Celebration on April 16.
How You Can Help
This month, the most important thing Impact100 Martin members can do is share our mission with friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family. Imagine the collective impact we could make by funding five or even six $100,000 Impact Grants this year.
Thank you for all you do to support collaborative philanthropy in our community!
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With a goal of 550 members and 407 already committed, we are just 143 memberships away from reaching full strength by February 27.
If you have not yet renewed, now is the perfect time. Your membership fuels our collective Impact and brings us one step closer to funding meaningful projects in our community.
Please remember that all new and renewing memberships must be received in the office by Friday, February 27, to be counted for Season 9 (2025–2026) and for the Awards presented at the Grant Awards Celebration on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
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Meet & Mingle with Impact100 Martin
Supporting Our Community Captains
Our Community Captains across Martin County—including Pipers Landing, Stuart, Mariner Sands, Harbour Ridge, Willoughby, Sewall’s Point, IRP/Hutchinson Island, Monarch, Yacht and Country Club, Sailfish Point, Palm City West, South Martin County, Business Professionals, Martin Downs Country Club, and Sandhill Cove—are working tirelessly to support renewals and welcome new members. Their dedication and enthusiasm are truly tremendous.
You can help our Community Captains!
If you have friends who may still be considering joining Impact100 Martin for Season 9, please invite them to an upcoming Impact100 Martin Member Engagement Event or a Meet & Mingle. Community Captain–hosted Meet & Mingles offer a personal and engaging way to share our story with prospective members. Together, we can continue growing our community of women creating positive, lasting change.
We have a fantastic lineup of Meet & Mingles coming up in February, and these gatherings are the perfect way to introduce friends or colleagues to Impact100 Martin. Each event offers an informal opportunity to learn more about our mission, our membership, and the collective Impact we’re making in the community.
If you know someone who may be interested in joining, please invite them to attend a Meet & Mingle at a location and date that works best for them. Kindly RSVP directly to the Community Captain listed for each event.
| | | Wednesday, February 11th
Business Professionals/Stuart| 5:30-7:30
RSVP: Missi Campbell | (772) 285-6536 | Thursday February 12th
Windstone/Harbour Ridge | 5-6:30
RSVP: Yvonne Orr | 336-466-0408 | | | | Thursday, February 19
Harbour Ridge | 4:30pm–6:00pm
Sarah Murphy | 561-272-7837 | Thursday, February 19
Stuart | 5:00pm-6:30pm
Patty Maraldo | 516-859-3951 | | | |
Wednesday, February 25
Palm City West | 5:00–6:30 PM
RSVP: Kirsten Knowles, 954-778-1747
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Welcome to Our New Impact Members!
Please join us in warmly welcoming our newest Impact100 Martin members. We are so grateful you’ve chosen to be part of this incredible community of women creating positive, lasting change.
| | | Mariner Sands | Molly McGrath, Elaine VanCura | | Monarch and Palm Cove | Karen Arkebauer, Betty Heiney | | Palm City West | Dawn Lasure | | Sailfish Point | Kathryn Nichol, Claire Miller, Kathleen Brophy Marotta, Michelle Damson, Andrea Pape, Nancie Parlin | | Sewall’s Point | Cherry Norris | | South Martin County | Mary Sawyer | | Stuart | Charlotte Glover, Karin DeCoste, Mary Bressman | | Business Professionals | Lesley Vestrich | | Harbour Ridge | Jessica Panzini | | Martin Downs Country Club | Jodi Gaines, Nancy Devanny, Patricia Devanny, MaryEllen Kline, Laura Watson | | Willoughby | Jeanette Block, Denise McKenzie, Marcia Sundeen, Phyl Weaver | | Yacht and Country Club | Chris McGroddy | | | A heartfelt thank-you to the members who referred these new Impact members and helped grow our collective giving network: | | |
Heidi Alderman
Lorraine Kayser Bradley
Pam Bringsjord
Missi Campbell
Lee Cotton
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Cindy Eaton
Samia Ferraro
Meredith Grant
Shannon King
Tami Larkan
Barbara Lindquist
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Sharon McGavock
Clara Panzini
Debbie Sopko
Allison Warren
Nancy Wong
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A special thank you to our Community Captains and the Membership Committee for their dedication and hard work. Please thank them when you see them—it truly takes a village, and we are grateful for their spirit of volunteerism.
Your Membership Co-Chairs,
Judy Zanchi and Sarah Murphy
communitycaptain@impact100martin.org
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Host a Meet & Mingle
Interested in introducing your book club, neighborhood group, or circle of friends to Impact100 Martin? Hosting a Meet & Mingle is an easy and impactful way to do just that.
You provide the guests and light refreshments, and we’ll take care of the rest. A representative from our Grants and Membership teams will join you to share a brief, engaging 20-minute presentation about our mission, membership, and collective Impact.
It’s simple, social, and a wonderful way to grow our community of women creating positive, lasting change.
To get started, contact us at info@impact100martin.org.
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Membership Renewal Reminder
A friendly reminder: Memberships for Season 9 should be renewed by February 28, 2026. Renew today so it’s taken care of—just click here!
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Grants Update: A Busy and Impactful Month
We have a lot to share this month as our grant cycle continues to move forward and our funded projects demonstrate meaningful progress across Martin County!
See Your Impact Visits:
On January 8 at the Kane Center, with 48 members in attendance. Participants heard updates on the number of schools served and had the opportunity to see firsthand how this project is engaging and inspiring students throughout our community.
It was a fun and informative visit, and we look forward to sharing photos and a video recap soon.
See Photos Here
On January 20th, 34 guests toured the House of Hope Farm, experiencing the vibrant produce firsthand and learning how an Impact100 grant funded critical equipment that now allows the organization to preserve fresh, healthy food for clients and food partners throughout Martin County.
See Photos Here
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Quarterly Reports: Project Progress Updates
We recently received Quarter 2 reports (September–November 2025) from our 2025 grant recipients. These reports highlight responsible stewardship of funds, measurable outcomes, and continued momentum toward project goals.
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Banner Lake continued progress on its transportation initiative, including installation of a new vehicle wrap and funding for driver wages. During the quarter, the program facilitated 16 trips, serving 22 senior residents, many of whom utilized the service multiple times.
| | Transportation supported essential needs such as medical and government appointments, grocery access, community events, funerals, and staff professional development. No unexpected expenses or challenges were reported, and the program continues to remove transportation barriers while strengthening community connection and independence. | | |
House of Hope reported significant progress in its food preservation initiative. All approved equipment purchases have been completed, including freeze dryers, dehydrators, and packaging systems now installed at both the nutrition center and farm.
Pictured: (left) preserved food for clients, (right) Brigite and Dave using MAP sealer
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During the quarter, 1,114 packages of freeze-dried food were produced and distributed through House of Hope pantries, helping expand access to nutritious, shelf-stable foods. Client feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and early product development is underway for future public sales, including creative concepts such as freeze-dried herbal tea blends.
While some additional training and infrastructure challenges arose, House of Hope continues to adapt processes and pursue supplemental funding to ensure long-term sustainability and impact.
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Project LIFT’s Forklift Certification Program remains one of its most successful workforce offerings. During the quarter, 16 students earned certification, with 32 additional students currently enrolled.
Pictured: Student on forklift
Participants demonstrated strong gains in employment readiness and mental health outcomes, reinforcing the value of combining skilled trades training with comprehensive support services. Stories like Tyler’s—who earned his diploma, obtained certification, and secured full-time employment—highlight the transformative power of this program.
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SafeSpace
SafeSpace reported steady progress following completion of major security upgrades earlier in the grant period. Staff training for monitoring systems is complete, and kitchen upgrades are scheduled for completion by February 2026.
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While a larger ventilation hood could not be purchased as originally planned due to budget constraints, alternative solutions were implemented to meet safety and fire code requirements. No additional challenges were reported during this quarter.
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The Everglades Edudome Experience launched successfully in late 2025, captivating students with immersive learning through a 360-degree film, walkable satellite MegaMap, and hands-on animal artifacts.
Already, 11 Martin County schools have scheduled visits for Spring 2026. Teachers report enthusiastic engagement and meaningful learning outcomes, with students gaining a deeper understanding of Florida’s water systems and natural environment.
While transporting and staffing the experience has proven more resource-intensive than anticipated, Friends of the Everglades is addressing these challenges through additional staffing and pursuit of supplemental funding.
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Introducing the Impact100 Academy
We are thrilled to share that a robust new online learning platform was officially launched at the Impact100 Global Conference! The Impact100 Academy is now open to every member of our Martin County chapter. Whether you are a long-standing leader or a brand-new member looking to get involved, the Academy offers a tailored curriculum designed to help chapters thrive.
What you’ll find inside:
- Customized Learning Pathways: Training specific to your role and experience level.
- Ready-to-Use Resources: A library of printable and editable templates to streamline our local efforts.
- Leadership Development: Tools to help you grow as a community advocate and philanthropist.
Get Started Today!
You can create your account and explore the courses at:
impact100global.org/courses/
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Susan Yeager
This month’s member spotlight features Susan Yeager, a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and Penn State. Susan moved to Boca Raton from Poughkeepsie, New York, about 35 years ago when her husband’s career with IBM brought their family to Florida.
She began her professional life in education and later co-founded a business with her sister designing and selling garden accessories and housewares. During those busy years, Susan also raised two children and supported Impact100 South Palm Beach financially.
Three years ago, Susan and her husband relocated to Palm City, where they became neighbors with Judy Zanchi—and joining Impact100 Martin soon followed naturally. Now retired, Susan is able to be more actively involved and currently serves on the Scholarship Committee, encouraging individuals with limited financial resources, but a strong desire to give back, to become members of our organization.
A dedicated gardener—especially when spending summers in the North Carolina mountains—Susan also enjoys golf and tennis. She values the opportunity to visit our grant recipients and see firsthand the impact of our shared philanthropic mission.
Susan’s background as an educator, her success as an entrepreneur, and her commitment to Impact100 reflect her deep values of service, leadership, and community support. We are grateful to have Susan as part of our Impact100 Martin family.
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Culture Club – Artsy Experience
“Sunflower Celebration” Workshop
Saturday, March 7, 2026, 1:00pm - 5:30pm
$120 per person | Min. 10 attendees
The Creek District, Stuart
Sunflower Celebration Workshop, where you'll create your own bouquet and paint a masterpiece!
Starting with a Sunflower Bouquet arrangement workshop with floral expert Ambar Zetune of Air & Petals. A unique studio space with a 'Flower Bar' experience, where you create your own bouquet with a guided session covering the topics of theme, flower selection, steps to design the bouquet, color theory, and techniques. An apron will be provided during the design session. Flowers, a vase, and a handbook of topics are yours to take home!
Followed by Painting the Masters workshop with professional artist Danuta Rothschild. She is a faculty at Lighthouse ArtsCenter, Member of MartinArts & Martin Artisans Guild, she was trained at the Academy of Arts- Warsaw Poland, and Pierce College, Woodland Hills, CA
Danuta will enlighten us about Vincent Van Gogh’s series of twelve famous paintings done in Arles, France, in 1888-89; and guide us through the fun process of creating our own masterpiece in this style.
Saturday, April 11, 2026, 12:45pm–2:30pm
$40 per person for our Private Tour
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Ft. Pierce
Join us for an Impact100 Martin Private Tour of the Indian River Lagoon. This is a fun and educational 1.5-hour excursion aboard FAU Harbor Branch’s pontoon tour boat, the Discovery! We will have the opportunity to experience the lagoon like never before - as a marine scientist aboard a floating laboratory with state-of-the-art-tools.
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During this experience, an expert guide will discuss the wildlife encountered and the research the Institute conducts to better understand and protect the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem. Activities include interpreting real-time water quality data from the Indian River Lagoon Observatory Network of Environmental Sensors, surveying underwater habitats with a remotely operated vehicle, and identifying wildlife of all sizes, from microscopic plankton to sharks, rays, manatees, and dolphins.
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Member Engagement Events Listing
Casual Golf - Play 9 holes for all skill levels
Friday Mornings 9:00am–11:00am
Sailfish Sands, Stuart
Pease let Brenda know by Wednesday of each week if you plan to play, so she can book a tee time. Text Brenda at 914-337-0490. It's pay-to-play directly at the course ($25 per person for 9 holes).
Welcome Circle: Your Gateway to Impact100 Martin Member Orientation
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm
Virtual Event - A link will be provided to registered attendees. Please add the Zoom link from the Confirmation email to your calendar (as it is not included in the meeting download link).
Culture Club – Experiential
“Sunflower Celebration” Workshop
Saturday, March 7, 2026, 1:00pm-5:30pm
$120 per person | Limit 15 attendees
The Creek District, Stuart
Welcome Circle: Your Gateway to Impact100 Martin Member Orientation
Wednesday, March 17, 2026, 5:00pm-6:00pm
Virtual Event - A link will be provided to registered attendees. Please add the Zoom link from the Confirmation email to your calendar (as it is not included in the meeting download link).
Social Hour at the Pearl
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 4:00pm-6:00pm
We're excited to host you, and to ensure we can accommodate everyone comfortably, we kindly ask that you register.
The Pearl, Stuart
New Member Appreciation Reception
Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 5:00pm-7:00 pm
We're excited to host Season 9 New Members (joining between March 1, 2025, and February 27, 2026)
Location details will be provided to those registered by March 20, 2026
Saturday, April 11, 2026, 12:45pm–2:30pm
$40 per person | Limit 30 attendees
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Fort Pierce
Grant Awards Celebration
Thursday, April 16, 2026, 4:00pm–7:00pm
$35 each for members; $45 each for guests
Temple Beit HaYam, Stuart
Welcome Circle: Your Gateway to Impact100 Martin Member Orientation
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 5:00pm-6:00pm
Virtual Event - A link will be provided to registered attendees.
Impact Book Club – Love and Ruin by Paula McLain
Monday, May 4, 2026, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Location details will be provided to those registered by April 30, 2026
Impact100 Martin Golf Tournament
Thursday, May 7, 2026, 8:30am–12:30pm
$125 per player ($75 for Pipers Landing members)
Piper’s Landing Yacht & Country Club
Saturday, May 16, 2026, 9:30am–10:30am
$5 per person donation on site | Limit 20 attendees
Welcome Circle: Your Gateway to Impact100 Martin Member Orientation
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 5:00pm–6:00pm
Virtual Event - A link will be provided to registered attendees.
Social Hour at the Pearl
Thursday, May 28, 2026, 4:00pm–6:00pm
The Pearl, Stuart
New this season:
Help us capture every angle!
Each event now has its own shared photo gallery.
Check your event reminder email for the unique upload link to share your photos and see everyone else’s!
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Not sure if you registered for an event?
Keeping track of your upcoming schedule is easy! Whether you need to double-check a start time or confirm your registration, you can view a full list of the events you have signed up for.
Click here for step-by-step instructions
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Don't miss out! Your Impact100 Martin member profile is the key to maximizing your experience this year.
Please take a moment to review and update your profile today.
Click here for step-by-step instructions
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Lamar Advertising Company, founded in 1902, is one of the largest outdoor advertising companies in North America, with a network of billboards, digital displays, transit advertising, and logo signs across the United States and Canada. Through its extensive reach and innovative use of digital technology, Lamar helps businesses, organizations, and governments connect with people in meaningful and effective ways.
Beyond advertising, Lamar is deeply committed to supporting the communities where it operates. A core part of the company’s mission is to give back, using its media assets to make a positive social impact. Each year, Lamar donates millions of dollars’ worth of advertising space to nonprofit organizations, public safety agencies, and community groups. These donations help raise awareness for important causes, promote local events, support fundraising efforts, and share critical public information without placing a financial burden on community organizations.
Lamar also plays an important role in public safety. Its digital billboard network is frequently used to display emergency messages such as Amber Alerts, weather warnings, and other urgent notifications from local and federal agencies, helping communities stay informed during critical situations.
In addition, Lamar emphasizes environmental responsibility by recycling and repurposing billboard materials and working to reduce waste across its operations. These efforts support sustainability while also assisting communities following severe weather events.
Through its combination of community partnerships, public service messaging, and environmental initiatives, Lamar Advertising demonstrates a strong commitment to strengthening the communities it serves and using its platform for the greater good.
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Help us grow our Impact100 Martin network!
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Let’s expand our reach and continue creating lasting change—together.
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