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The time was different, the roads were different, and the cars were different. Driving across the United States was an adventure years ago. And it still is today.

Marie Selby was the first woman to cross the country by automobile, and she did it with Bill by her side in their first year of marriage.

The couple was excited by the first transcontinental automobile race between Seattle and New York City. They later made a decision to do it themselves and loaded their touring car with spare parts and camping equipment. The Selbys completed the trip in six fewer days than the winning car in the race. We can feel the wind in our hair as we envision the adventure!

Their journeys also included incredible giving, and the thoughtful planning of Bill and Marie continues to guide the Foundation's work today--68 years after the foundation was formed.

Their legacy has enabled countless people to make gains through nonprofit programs that are possible because of capital investments such as buildings, vehicles, technology, software and learning tools. It has conserved native land, allowed local technical colleges and universities to invest in more graduations. Their legacy has given young people new possibilities for their lives through our esteemed Selby Scholarship Program with renewable scholarships and one on one support.

November is a month of thanksgiving.

We know you share our gratitude for amazing people like the Selbys. We thank our region's nonprofits that do the hard work of changing lives. We appreciate those who support students along the way and the young people who are making their mark in the world.

The adventure of doing good is both receiving and paying it forward. Times change, but this connection to each other remains the same.

May your month be full of gratitude!

Recent college graduate and Selby Scholar Arianna Gonzalez landed her dream job at Acoustyle Communications. Her college experience at University of Miami included a big city, new opportunities, and the chance to connect with a mentor through the Selby Scholarship program.

We spoke with Arianna to learn about her post-secondary education experience, her new job, and her relationship with public relations expert and Selby Scholar mentor Patricia Courtois. We thank Patricia and all of our Selby Scholar mentors for their commitments to amazing young people! Read the interview here.

This floor-to-ceiling stage cyclorama curtain being installed is part of a $21,653 grant recently awarded from the Selby Foundation to help the Military Heritage Museum provide more enriching educational content for both adults and youth. The additions will infuse performances and cinematic experiences with a "captivating new dynamic" for students, veterans, families and others.

The organization is the only military/history themed museum of its size and substance in our region, offering a safe, affordable educational and cultural attraction. Its purpose is to honor all who serve. Across all five military branches, the museum utilizes multiple methods to educate its visitors on the heritage aspects of US military history.

Want to learn more about the Military Heritage Museum? It's time for a short road trip to Punta Gorda from wherever you live or work! As Veteran's Day approaches, we send a special thank you to those who have served our country.

From left: Alexa Carr, The Patterson Foundation Fellow; Susie Bowie, Selby Foundation President/CEO; Julie Spicer, Grants Manager; Kiarra Womack, Scholarships and Special Projects Manager

There's a new face on the team! Alexa Carr, a Fellow at The Patterson Foundation (TPF), will be joining the Selby Foundation for the next few months to explore possibilities for our Traditional Grant and Small and Mighty Grant cycles. Her work will include analyzing previous grants and sharing strategies to maximize our investments.

Alexa graduated in May 2023 with her Philanthropic Studies MA from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She completed her undergraduate years majoring in Biology and Philanthropic Studies and holds a Certificate in Fund Raising Management. Alexa has held development and research roles at the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, IU Health Foundation, and the IU Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics.

Gratitude for the gifts of partnership! Learn more about TPF's Fellows Program here.

Thanks to the Herald-Tribune for publishing our guest column about the essential role of nonprofit organizations and their leaders. These seven reflections are worth thinking about.

Open twice per year to organizations with at least $300,000 in annual expenses, the Traditional Grant Cycle supports 501c3 organizations in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties with capital investments. Applications open December 1, 2023. The deadline is January 15, 2024. Details here.

Are you a Selby Scholar from years past? Have you been involved in the lives of students through the Selby Foundation? In our history since 1955, many people have been supported...and many people have made a difference. We want to know your story.

Visit Us Online at www.SelbyFdn.org.

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