Author: Jasmine

Neal Communities Donates $5,800 to School Programs in Sarasota and Manatee Counties

Neal Communities, the area’s largest private homebuilder, recently donated $5,800 to help support community programs that benefit children and families. Five donations were given to school programs in Sarasota and Manatee counties, including $300 to sponsor the Kinnan Elementary School Walk-A-Thon, $1,000 to sponsor Sarasota Crew, $2,500 to sponsor the Manatee County 4H Association’s fishing tournament, $500 to sponsor the Sarasota High School Lady Sailors volleyball team, and $1,500 to sponsor the Venice High School Boys’ soccer team.

With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $7.75 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build. Often, sponsorships are the result of an employee request.

Jennifer Villarreal, Neal Communities accounting supervisor, asked that the local home builder sponsor the Walk-A-Thon at Kinnan Elementary, where her son Sebastian is a student. The fundraiser took place on September 29, 2023, and raised $35,477 for the school, exceeding the goal of $25,000.

“Neal Communities supports many worthy local causes that are meaningful to its team members,” said Villarreal. “I am so proud to work for a company that reinvests in the communities it builds in, and I appreciate the support of my son’s school.”

Neal Communities’ $1,000 sponsorship of Sarasota Crew was requested by Jon Wasluk, Neal Communities construction manager, whose daughter is on the two-time state championship team. Sarasota Crew is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing youth rowing clubs. The nonprofit organization has a mission to provide middle and high school youth in Sarasota County with positive, competitive rowing experiences that help develop personal integrity and self-esteem, promote teamwork and sportsmanship, and advocate a healthy lifestyle.

Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities, believes in supporting the causes that are important to employees of Neal Communities and the areas where the company builds. “We believe that where you live matters, and we want to be part of supporting our local communities and families,” said Neal. “I’m pleased that we can do this and enrich the lives of all the students that are involved in these programs.”

Neal Communities was also a platinum sponsor of the first annual Manatee County 4H “Reelin’ in the Future” fishing tournament, which took place on October 13 and 14. The tournament benefitted the Manatee County 4-H Youth Development Program, which is an education program for youth aged 5-18.

In addition, the Neal Communities sponsored both the Sarasota High School Lady Sailors volleyball team and the Venice High School Boys’ soccer team to help with uniforms, equipment and other expenses for the teams.

For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

October 19, 2023
Mary Quaid: Guiding Dreams in New Home Sales

Working in the dynamic world of new home sales for Neal Communities, the area’s premier private homebuilder, demands a unique blend of energy and competitiveness. For those who thrive in this high-energy environment, it offers a gateway to boundless opportunities. Mary Quaid, a sales associate at Neal Communities, personifies the ideal candidate for this challenging domain.

MaryAnn Koops, her sales manager, lauds Mary’s unwavering dedication, relentless work ethic, and pursuit of excellence. “Mary consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, strong work ethic, and a commitment to excellence. Mary’s ability to collaborate effectively, adapt to changing circumstances, and take initiative sets a remarkable standard within our team,” Koops attests.

Leveraging her aptitude for connecting with people and creative problem-solving, Mary pursued her real estate license after earning a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Central Florida. “I’ve always enjoyed meeting new people,” Mary shares. “Working in real estate allows me to do that and to become part of a special moment in their lives when they find their new dream home.”

After graduating in 2018, she began her career in Orlando, working in leasing for her apartment complex. However, her aspirations were grander. With her grandmother’s legacy as a successful sales representative at Neal Communities, she was well-acquainted with the company’s reputation. Furthermore, her heart longed to return to Lakewood Ranch, a place she considered home despite brief stints in Ireland during her formative years.

In August 2019, Mary joined Neal Communities as a new home sales trainee, quickly ascending through the ranks. By March 2020, she was promoted to a new home sales associate, where she has consistently excelled and established herself as an invaluable asset. Koops remarks, “Her contributions have consistently yielded positive results, making her a valuable asset to Neal Communities.”

Mary describes her role as showcasing what makes Neal homes extraordinary. “The essence of what I do is to show how a Neal Communities home can improve someone’s day to day. How can it solve the little problems that add up in someone’s day and make life a little easier,” she explains. “We see so many different lifestyles and wants and needs. I think it’s the best part of the job: finding the right floor plan and home site for as many people as possible. I love finding the perfect match for someone and sharing their excitement.”

Currently, Mary is selling homes in Grand Palm, a serene, nature-focused community in Venice, with a rich array of amenities. She also cherishes her time at Cielo, the first Neal Community she worked in. “It was a genuine gift to work in Cielo as the only sales rep. It’s in a beautiful area of Venice, and I worked with so many gracious and kind new homeowners,” Mary fondly recalls.

Elayne McKinney, the sales manager overseeing Cielo, describes Mary as where passion meets dedication. “Mary Quaid: Where passion meets dedication, and she treats her buyers as friends. Her commitment to excellence shines through every referral she receives. Neal Communities is truly fortunate to have Mary on our team.”

In September 2023, Mary earned a Bronze Award from the Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association’s Sales and Marketing Council, acknowledging her outstanding sales performance. Her total sales for the year reached an impressive $6,576,000, yet Mary has her sights set higher, aiming to become one of Neal Communities’ top five sales associates.

“I’m definitely competitive,” she chuckles, “but mostly I’m trying to beat my own best and stay open to learning and feedback. This is a wonderful environment for a salesperson to thrive. I’m encouraged to think on my feet and do the right thing for the homeowner.”

Beyond her professional aspirations, Mary also believes in doing the right thing outside of work and appreciates the support she receives from her employer to volunteer in the community. “My mother started Manatee BUDS after my younger sister Eleanor was born with Downs Syndrome. BUDS stands for Bringing Up Downs Syndrome, and the local organization provides programs and services for new parents, kids and young adults with Downs Syndrome.”

Quaid’s volunteer work with Manatee BUDS includes helping with social media marketing for programs like yoga classes, outreach to young adults and the Buddy Walk, the area’s largest Downs Syndrome awareness and celebration event of the year. The 21^st Annual Buddy Walk will take place on October 28 this year at Bayside Community Church’s Lakewood Ranch campus. Donations and walkers are welcome, and Quaid encourages anyone interested to get involved.

“It’s an important organization that gives a more positive and, in my opinion, a truly realistic look into living with an intellectual disability in today’s world. It’s giving new parents and experienced parents, as well as young adults with Down syndrome, resources to navigate and excel in a way that they may not have been given the chance to even twenty years ago,” says Quaid.

Mary’s ambitious nature and her genuine, caring approach to homebuyers are poised to propel her to even greater heights in her promising future with Neal Communities. Her sales managers and colleagues eagerly anticipate celebrating her achievement as one of the top five sales leaders. And then, who knows what new horizons Mary will set her sights on next!

October 13, 2023
Neal Communities Hosted Riverview High School Construction Academy Field Trip

Neal Communities, the area’s largest private homebuilder, hosted a two-hour field trip and bus tour for 23 students from the Riverview High School Construction Academy on September 19. The students boarded a bus at the high school and were driven to Windward at Lakewood Ranch where their tour guide, Neal Communities Project Manager Travis Urbanick, and Katie Rhyne, Neal Communities community affairs coordinator, joined them. From there, the bus tour allowed the students to observe various construction sites with projects in progress, including land development, slab pouring, framing, electrical and plumbing rough-ins, siding, drywall, stucco completion and roofing, all with Urbanick providing commentary. They also toured completed homes and the Discovery Center, where Neal Communities Area Sales Manager MaryAnn Koops spoke with them.

“This is a great program for students who are interested in a career in the construction industry,” said Urbanick. “The students were engaged, asked lots of questions and were able to experience a community and walk through the model homes. We hope to see these kids back in a few years for internships.”

Last year, Neal Communities donated $50,000 to the Construction Academy, the first program of its kind in Sarasota County. It incorporates a curriculum from the National Center of Construction Education and Research along with hands-on experiences for students. Upon completion of the four-year program, high school students graduate with industry-recognized credentials and gain access to local internships, apprenticeships and job opportunities.

Charlene Neal, president of Charlene Neal PureStyle, a partner company of Neal Communities, organized the donation because of her desire to support a program that would have lasting positive effects on the students at Riverview High School, her alma mater.

In addition to the financial contribution, Neal Communities offered to provide staff resources to assist with the program, including field trips such as this one, internships and apprenticeships.

Riverview High School Construction Trades Instructor Alex Lichter of Sarasota County Schools said, “The trip was fantastic! Katie and Travis are both very knowledgeable about their respective careers. The students really liked the fact that they could actually see what was being talked about, and it helped them understand a lot more of what was being said to them.”

For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

October 11, 2023
Neal Communities Sponsors Team for 2023 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk

For the seventh year, Neal Communities is sponsoring a team for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, presented by the American Cancer Society. The walk is a fundraiser, but it’s also a celebration of courage and hope, uniting those impacted by breast cancer. It raises lifesaving funds that support patients, survivors, thrivers and caregivers through every step of the journey.

For Raylene Gaines, the leader of the Neal Communities team, participating is a passion. Several people close to her have been impacted by breast cancer, including a close friend, her uncle and her mother, Margaret Bovinett. This is her thirteenth year leading a team for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.

“Early detection saves lives and that’s what this is all about,” said Gaines. “Getting the word out about the prevalence of breast cancer is incredibly important, and I’m very passionate about it because I know so many people who have been affected by it.”

Gaines is the office manager at Charlene Neal PureStyle, The Neal Communities team, called Building Hope with Pink Pride, is open to anyone who would like to join. Members of the team raise funds individually, and Neal Communities has also contributed $3,500 to the cause. So far, the team has raised $5,077 and is working towards a goal of $10,000.

This year’s walk will take place on Saturday, October 21, at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, beginning at 7:30 a.m. The walk is noncompetitive, with both a 1-mile and 3-mile option, and strollers are welcome. After the walk, live musical entertainment and food trucks will keep the celebration going.

“Anyone is welcome to join our team,” said Gaines. “Just go to www.MakingStridesWalk.org/SarasotaManatee and look for the Neal Communities team. Or start your own!”

Part of the fun is seeing the crowds of walkers dressed in pink. Some take it a step further with creative costumes, including Gaines’ son Shane. Last year, he donned a decorative pink bra over his t-shirt. Gaines said it is always fun to see what Shane wears, and she appreciates his walking to support his family members and their battles against the disease.

Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities, frequently supports the causes that are important to employees of Neal Communities and the communities where the company builds. “We are honored to support such a worthy cause in the local community while also supporting one of our employees,” said Neal. “Raylene Gaines and the rest of the Building Hope with Pink Pride team make us proud with their dedication of time and resources to this cause.”

So far, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer has raised $245,720 towards a goal of $490,000. Additional walkers and teams are welcome. For more information on how you can get involved, visit www.MakingStridesWalk.org/SarasotaManatee.

October 2, 2023
Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes Receive Multiple Awards from The Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association

Neal Communities, the area’s largest private homebuilder, and Neal Signature Homes were honored with six marketing awards and 19 sales awards in the 2023 SMC Celebration of Excellence Awards presented by the Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association (MSBIA). The awards, selected by MSBIA’s Sales and Marketing Council, recognize outstanding achievements in sales and marketing in the local building industry.

For the marketing awards. Neal Communities was awarded Best Direct Mail Ad, Best Video – Social Media Video, Best Social Media Campaign and Best Promotion to Consumers. Neal Signature Homes was awarded Best Video – Corporate/Website Video and Best Logo.

The MSBIA also honored 19 of Neal Communities salespersons and sales managers with awards. Bronze Awards for sales from $1-10 million went to Steve Goodwin, Kathy Lane, Christina Potts, Mary Quaid, David Sanvidge, Aaron Solari, Vanessa Wisnowski and Ryan Zimmerman. Silver Awards for sales from $10-15 million went to Dawna Bruner, Connie Chase, Bradley Jackson and Joe Jones. Gold Awards for sales from $15-25 million went to James Archibald, Bert Desmond, Valerie Fox and Jon McClay. Diamond Awards for sales over $50 million were presented to Christina Sadler for online sales and to sales managers MaryAnn Koops and Elayne McKinney.

The Masquerade Ball-themed event was held Sept. 14 at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota with Maverick and Lulu of iHeartRadio Sarasota, Suncoast Country 92.1 and 103.5 CTQ serving as masters of ceremony.

“It’s so rewarding to see our sales and marketing team recognized for the stellar work they do,” said Carlos Puente, vice president of sales and marketing for Neal Communities. “We could not be more proud and appreciative of these awards recognizing their achievements.”

Neal Communities has been building homes in Southwest Florida for more than 50 years and has received numerous awards. Their customer service, commitment to quality and elegant floor plans make them one of the most sought-after home builders in the area.

MSBIA is a networking and advocacy group for the building, construction, development and associated industries in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

September 29, 2023
Neal Communities Supports Local Boys & Girls Club and Venice Vikings Football & Cheer

Neal Communities, the area’s largest private homebuilder, recently sponsored two programs to benefit local youth, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties’ 17th annual Polymer Group Leadership Breakfast and the Venice Vikings Football & Cheer program.

With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $7.75 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build.

“We support youth programs that give children impactful tools they need to thrive and succeed, and I’m pleased to assist both the Boys and Girls Clubs and the Venice Vikings,” said Pat Neal, founder and president of Neal Communities.

Neal Communities was a $1,500 Visionary Sponsor of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties’ 17th annual Polymer Group Leadership Breakfast, which was held on Friday, September 8th in Sarasota. Proceeds from the event supported the organization’s award-winning teen programs, which include leadership training, service opportunities, entrepreneurial education, workforce development, and college and career prep.

During the breakfast, the organization honored Carol Butera, a nonprofit executive; Richard Perlman, co-founder and executive chairman of ExamWorks Group, Inc.; and James (Jim) K. Price, co-founder and co-executive chairman of ExamWorks Group, Inc. for their commitment to empower and inspire teens to achieve success.

“We are grateful to Neal Communities for their ongoing commitment to our mission and programs. This partnership ensures that thousands of youth across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties have access to award-winning teen programs, including leadership training, service opportunities, entrepreneurial education, workforce development, and college and career preparation, all aimed at empowering local teens to realize their potential and chart new pathways to success,” said Bill Sadlo, President/CEO at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.

In addition, Neal Communities also sponsored the Venice Vikings Football & Cheer program in the amount of $1,000. Since 1969, the volunteer-run organization has provided children in the Venice area with the opportunity to participate in team sports and activities in a safe and structured environment. The program teaches fundamental values, skills and knowledge that children will use throughout their lives, while emphasizing the importance of academic success. The program serves 250-300 children, aged 5 to 14, each year.

“We are grateful for Neal Communities sponsorship of our program,” said Venice Vikings president Jamie Fraser. “Their support will help us pay for equipment and costs associated with operations. Our sponsors make a difference and give us what we need to host a successful program each year.”

To donate to The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties and support teen programming, visit www.bgcsdc.org. To donate to the Venice Vikings Football and Cheer, visit www.VeniceVikings.com.

For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

September 20, 2023
Neal Communities Sponsors TEDxBradenton

The region’s largest private homebuilder, Neal Communities, donated $2,500 as a Pathfinder Sponsor for TEDxBradenton. Taking place on September 29, 2023, at State College of Florida, the event seeks to highlight local ideas and the area’s rich and diverse talent working to convert those ideas into community initiatives.

The theme of this year’s TEDxBradenton is “Writing the Future,” and 150 attendees, including speakers and volunteers, are expected.

This is the second year the TEDxBradenton event has been held and the second year Neal Communities has sponsored the event. Last year, the private homebuilder gave $1,000 to help offset the operating costs of the event. This year, Neal Communities has more than doubled that sponsorship to $2,500.

Sarah Toedman, a new home sales associate with Neal Communities, is part of a planning committee for the TEDxBradenton event. Toedman worked with a TEDx program at Florida State University several years ago, and because of that experience, she was asked to be part of the planning committee for the inaugural Bradenton event and has continued to serve on the committee.

“We’re excited to be producing TEDxBradenton for the second year,” said Toedman. “Bradenton has so many locals that are doing fabulous things for our community as well as new people moving here every day and bringing new ideas worth sharing.”

The Neal Communities sponsorship will help offset some of the cost for live streaming and production of the event.

“Neal Communities gives back to all of their current local communities that they are building in, throughout the west coast of Florida,” said Toedman. “Spreading ideas to make where you live a better place means a lot to the Bradenton area and people. I am very grateful for the support from Neal Communities in my personal endeavor to give back to this community.”

TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience in the spirit of ideas worth spreading. At a TEDx event, both live and recorded speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection.

This year’s speaker lineup for TEDxBradenton includes Robyn Faucy of Results 1^st as master of ceremony, Mark Gordon of the Business Observer and the Observer Media Group, Travis Ray of Dapper Bowtique, Dominic Marino of Oyster Boys Conservation, Xtavia Bailey of Next Level Coaching and Consulting, author and educator Dr. Richard C. Harris, Andre Hendrix of The Village Health & Wellness, author and speaker Natalie Baird-King, Esq., Mitch Lomazov of EXCELLence Performance, Omar Edwards of the School District of Manatee County, urban designer Elma Felix, Derek Ober of Northwestern Mutual, Carlos Portillo of Suncoast Youth for Christ, Larissa Lippe of Smart Kids Tutor LLC, Chase Pettey of Adventure for All and Shannon Live of Bat City Comic Professionals.

With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $7.75 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build. The latest giving is an example of the company’s philanthropic culture.

“We encourage our teammates at Neal Communities to get involved in organizations and events that make a difference in people’s lives and in the communities where they live,” said Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities. “We are pleased to be able to support many of those initiatives.”

For tickets and more information about TEDxBradenton, visit www.tedxbradenton.com. For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

September 18, 2023
Neal Communities Placed First in the 2023 Sarasota Herald-Tribune Top Workplaces Survey for Large Organizations

Neal Communities has again earned top honors in the large organizations category of a survey designed to recognize Top Workplaces in Sarasota and Manatee and Counties.

The Top Workplaces program surveys employees to collect feedback on the employee experience, culture and other critical areas of employee satisfaction. Surveys went out to thousands of employees in the region, and 25 employers made the winners list. Neal Communities took the top spot for large organizations for the second year in a row.

Employees at Neal Communities receive comprehensive benefits including competitive compensation, attainable bonuses, career advancement and development, comprehensive health care plans, employer-paid life insurance, supplemental insurance, long- and short-term disability insurance, employer-paid ID theft protection, a generous company-matching 401(K), paid time off, a wellness program, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program (EAP) and employee service awards. In addition, employees have the opportunity to purchase a Neal home at a savings or have work done on their existing home through Neal’s trusted vendors.

“This recognition is a celebration of our employees, their teamwork and their enduring commitment to our organization,” said Tashara Cronshaw, PHR, SRM-CP, vice president of human resources at Neal Communities. “I am incredibly proud to be a part of something so special.”

Neal Communities has participated in the Herald Tribune’s award dating back to 2019 and has won each year. This is the second year the employee survey company Energage has partnered with the Sarasota Herald-Tribune to conduct the survey and identify the top workplaces in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

Pat Neal, founder of Neal Communities, said, “It’s important to me and everyone here that this is an outstanding place to work. We let our employees know that they have a voice and they are valued for their role in our mutual success.”

In addition to recognizing employees’ contributions and longevity through programs such as Years of Service recognition or annual Guiding Principles Award, which honors an employee who illuminates the principles that guide Neal Communities, the company also listens to employees when it comes to community involvement. Much of Neal Communities’ more than $7.75 million in charitable giving has been to organizations that employees volunteer for or are directly involved in.

To explore opportunities at Neal Communities, visit NealCareers.com.

September 14, 2023
Neal Communities Announces Two Communities Nearing Close-Out

The region’s largest private homebuilder, Neal Communities, has announced that two communities are nearing close-out. With construction complete or nearly complete in Silverleaf and Indigo at Lakewood Ranch, this is an ideal time to buy one of the last remaining homes in these communities and enjoy the lifestyle and amenities they have to offer.

Silverleaf is a new home community in Parrish, FL, that has just a few homes left. With several sections already sold out and the beautiful amenities already complete, the neighborhood is move-in ready with minimal construction remaining. From day one, buyers can workout, relax and socialize at the clubhouse with fitness room, poolside kitchen and resort-style pool and spa. Silverleaf also includes basketball courts, two dog parks, a children’s playground and a picnic shelter with a grill.

The community is situated near shopping, dining and entertainment destinations, and convenient to I-75 and the Ellenton Premiere Outlets. Downtown Tampa and St. Petersburg are easily accessible, and Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and area beaches are a short drive away.

Silverleaf offers a range of island-inspired single-family home designs ideal for homebuyers wanting a comfortable and stylish neighborhood. Homes in Silverleaf start at $441,990.

For buyers looking for a new home in the master-planned community of Lakewood Ranch, Indigo at Lakewood Ranch offers the opportunity to enjoy this special lifestyle. The wealth of amenities includes a recreation center with club room and café kitchen, community pool and spa, fitness center, pickleball and bocce ball courts. An on-site activities director plans daily outings, classes and social events.

With convenient access to the area’s white sand beaches, championship golf courses, world-class shopping and much more, Indigo has much to offer – but only a few homesites left. Currently available homes start at $585,990.

“For anyone considering these communities, now is the time. Don’t wait any longer if you want to live in these beautiful and thriving neighborhoods,” said Carlos Puente, vice president of sales and marketing for Neal Communities. “They are closing out quickly!”

For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

August 29, 2023
Neal Communities Donated More than $26,000 to the 24th Annual BIG Backpack Event

The region’s largest private homebuilder, Neal Communities, and its trade partners raised a record $26,375 as the presenting sponsor of the 24th Annual BIG Backpack Event on July 30, 2023.

Hosted by the Multicultural Centre of Southwest Florida, the annual BIG Backpack Event provided 2,500 backpacks filled with school supplies and groceries to area families with children ages 5 to 12. More than 200 volunteers, including Neal Communities’ employees and trade partners, assisted with packing supplies and distribution at the event, which took place in a drive-thru at the Fort Myers Skatium.

“We look forward to this event and helping local families as they prepare for the upcoming school year,” said Tim Oak, south region president of Neal Communities. “In addition to our company’s sponsorship, our employees and trade partners collect donations and we volunteer to help. I’m thrilled that we were able to assist so many families this year.”

This was the eighth consecutive year that Neal Communities was the presenting sponsor of the BIG Backpack Event, and this year’s donation was the largest to date collected by the homebuilder. With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $7.75 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build.

“There are no words that can describe the deep appreciation that we have for Neal Communities,” said Leonardo Garcia, the founder of the Multicultural Centre of Southwest Florida and event co-chair. “Thanks to Neal Communities, we have served close to 50,000 students in Southwest Florida over the years. Their support is much appreciated and needed.”

Other event sponsors this year included the City of Fort Myers, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Lee County School District, CONRIC pr + marketing, HABA, Macaroni KID and Midwest Foods.

Many families in the region continue to rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Ian. Garcia said the BIG Backpack Event provided much needed relief, supplying children with new backpacks filled with pencils, pens, paper, crayons, folders and other essential back-to-school items as well as coupons and other giveaways.

“Ensuring that these families have what they need to start the school year off right is what motivates us to keep doing this year after year,” Garcia said. “We don’t want to see any family struggle and go without.”

For more information about the Multicultural Centre of Southwest Florida, visit www.Multicultural-Centre.org. For more information about Neal Communities, visit staging.nealcommunities.com/.

August 4, 2023