There are many things that make Punta Gorda a special place to live, work and play, and one of them is the high level of citizen participation. At TEAM Punta Gorda, participation is one of the foundational principles that has contributed to our success. Volunteers are definitely the engine that makes TEAM Punta Gorda go. We provide year-round opportunities for citizens to participate in improving our community. Some volunteer for one day or sign up for a longer project. Many are here in Punta Gorda for just a few months a year. Others work remotely, sharing their talents.

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It was a packed house on the porch of the Ice House in Punta Gorda at TEAM's March mixer. Outreach volunteers (pictured here with Chair Gina Silvidi-Cairns in pink) did an outstanding job of welcoming more than 70 guests from throughout the community. TEAM wishes to thank the management and staff for providing a much appreciated spread of tasty bites and a seamless drink service. Participants included notables from city and county, TEAM board members, volunteers and several new participants eager to learn more about TEAM and its volunteer opportunities. See if you recognize any of those in attendance.

See who else was there

Following Friday's deluge of rain, the skies cleared on Saturday, March 23, as hundreds of eager riders enjoyed another wonderful Pedal and Play in Paradise. Hundreds of riders and volunteers gathered at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda for the classic event, proceeds of which support TEAM's Bike Loaner Program and other bicycle friendly initiatives. The Pedal and Play volunteer leadership team included: Deb Hoyt, Darcey Hanley, Vicki and Bill Welsch, Bob Bechtold, Barry Simescu, Gayle Ross, Joyce Stanley and Dave Abderhalden. Look for more photos, a tribute to PnP sponsors and a gallery to share in our next TEAM Talk. Pictured here, compliments of photographer Jim Austin, are veteran volunteers Bill and Vicki Welsch (above) with rider Tom Allen. Below are Joe and Antoinette Garofalo.

TEAM's first call for volunteers filled almost every available task slot during the 2024 January - March Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity home build. Volunteers included several new to TEAM's roster of helping hands. Build chair, Steve Johnson, promises a full report in our next issue with a gallery of photos online at our website. Habitat has several homes under construction in this neighborhood (Peace River Shores). Many more are in various stages of completion elsewhere in our community. This is TEAM's 6th build. It is a project of tremendous value that impacts many deserving lives. Want to get involved in a future build? Reach out to TEAM at 941-637-8326 or email team@teampuntagorda.org.

Punta Gorda in Bloom volunteers welcomed those from the Venice chapter of America in Bloom for a tour of Punta Gorda gardens in late February. The groups toured the Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens, the Punta Gorda Nature Park and downtown floral displays, followed by lunch at TT's Tiki Hut at platinum sponsor Sheraton Four Points. Punta Gorda City Council has approved expansion of planters along Taylor and Marion avenues. PGIB operates under the auspices of TEAM. Funding is provided by the Schulman Foundation.