Happy New Year! January 2021
Nancy Says "Stay Tuned. The Best is Yet to Come."
The year 2020 was a challenging time for local nonprofits who need to stay viable and visible so they can regroup for more normal times. Despite the challenges, TEAM volunteers refuse to be deterred from improving our community. They are out there working safely despite current challenges. The stories below illustrate some of the great projects underway, each of which displays considerable creativity.
Build a Bike, Win a Bike
Tired of just sitting around? Bored with your bicycle rides? Feel unsafe gathering with others for a bicycle event? Would you like a chance to win a new Electra Townie bicycle and other prizes? We have just the thing for you!

"Build a Bike, Win a Bike, A 'Pedal and Play in Paradise' Alternative."

Punta Gorda Blooming "One Plant at a Time"
Punta Gorda in Bloom (PGIB) Chair Richard Polk reports, “We just completed the installation of six light pole planters at the Charlotte County Courthouse. The committee moves ahead with plans for the beautification of Taylor Street and has presented plans to City Council for beautifying Marion Avenue between US 41 North and Taylor Street.

Richard Polk (l.) with TEAM board member Tom Cavanaugh (r.) at the Charlotte County Courthouse.

TEAM Builds 2020 - 2021
TEAM volunteers made great progress during the final weeks of 2020 despite weather and supply issues. Volunteer project manager Peter Krumsiek reports that contractors are busy laying sod and finishing the interior. Thanks to all the volunteers who made this possible.

These TEAM and Habitat volunteers are but a snapshot of all who contributed their time and energy to the project.

Register for TEAM's 16th Annual Golf Scramble
The March 20 event at St. Andrews South in Punta Gorda is TEAM's primary fundraiser. The event is safe, fun and loaded with prizes. Proceeds serve our community and continue to make Punta Gorda a better place to live, work, and play.

Will you be a Friend of TEAM This Year?
Our 2021 Friends of TEAM annual campaign is underway. Your response and generosity has been overwhelming. With your help TEAM will be able to fund our initiatives.

Free Loaner Bikes on a Roll
TEAM continues to offer, at no charge to the public, 34 bicycles, 3 tricycles, and a single hand-pedal bike at four Punta Gorda locations. In December 2020, seven retired bikes from the loaner fleet were repaired, painted, and donated to the resale shop at St. Vincent’s de Paul in Punta Gorda.

Volunteers Will Paint Their Hearts Out for PORCH Vets
The Peace River Community Housing Partners (PORCH) advocates for the development of safe, functional, affordable, sustainable housing. TEAM volunteers plan to lend a hand this spring by painting the exterior of five veteran occupied rental homes in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte.
More details in the next TEAM Talk.
TEAM Welcomes New Student Board Members
Kylie McQueen is a senior at Charlotte High School and Dylan Hogan is finishing his senior year at Florida Southwestern Collegiate High School – Charlotte Campus.
McQueen has a strong track record of involvement in her school and community and is currently serving as President of the Charlotte High School Student Government. Hogan has a remarkable history of citizen engagement and advocacy.

They will serve a one-year term bringing their youthful perspective to help guide TEAM’s programs and initiatives.
TEAM Punta Gorda is a volunteer-driven organization committed to making Punta Gorda a wonderful place to live, work, and play. We invite your time, talent, and treasure. Contact TEAM at 941-637-8326 or by email at team@teampuntagorda.org. Learn more at www.teampuntagorda.org. Please recognize and support TEAM's Platinum Sponsors.