RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation Grants $43,100 to Local Nonprofits

The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) has long been dedicated to giving back to the community through the RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (RRCF). This year, the RRCF is proud to announce the distribution of $43,100 in grant money to support several local nonprofits, each of which plays a vital role in improving the lives of individuals and families throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

These grants reflect RASM's commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of our community. Below is an overview of the organizations that received funding, along with a description of the important work they do:

Community Coalition on Homelessness DBA Turning Points - $4,800

Located in Bradenton, Turning Points provides services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. They offer a range of support, including access to health care, job assistance, and basic needs such as food and clothing, helping people get back on their feet and move toward self-sufficiency. Turning Points is excited to expand its navigation program, increasing from one part-time navigator to two full-time navigators, one part-time navigator, and a manager. This funding will also provide four tablets to allow mobile access, enabling navigators to assist clients wherever they are.

Everyday Blessings Inc. - $4,800

Everyday Blessings is a nonprofit that focuses on providing a stable, loving home environment for children who have been removed from their families due to abuse or neglect. This organization works to place children in foster homes and provide ongoing support to foster parents. This grant will support young adults in the Springboard Program by meeting the needs of up to 4-8 residents. Currently, three young adults reside in two two-bedroom apartments, and the funds will be used to fully furnish two additional apartments.

 

Second Heart Homes - $5,000

Second Heart Homes, based in Bradenton, provides permanent housing and support services to homeless individuals who suffer from mental illness. Their mission is to break the cycle of homelessness by offering stable, long-term housing solutions combined with mental health care and community support. This grant will fund therapy sessions for residents at Second Heart Homes, many of whom come from traumatic backgrounds and need help achieving their therapeutic goals. The grant will cover up to 70 therapy sessions for residents whose insurance doesn’t cover mental health services, offering ten sessions per resident.

Safe Place And Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) - $3,500

SPARCC, located in Sarasota, is dedicated to providing services to victims of domestic and sexual violence. They offer emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy services, as well as education programs aimed at preventing violence and creating safer communities. This grant will supplement support for survivors enrolled in SPARCC’s Housing Stability Program, which provides up to 12 months of housing assistance for survivors and their children. The funds will be used to provide “Starter Kits” for new participants, containing essential household items like vacuum cleaners, sheets, and kitchenware, which are not commonly available through donations.

Manatee Children's Services - $5,000

Manatee Children’s Services in Bradenton is a child advocacy center that offers comprehensive services to abused, neglected, or at-risk children. Their services include therapy, foster care, and prevention programs designed to ensure that children grow up in safe and supportive environments. This grant will fund new furnishings for the residential facility that houses the MCS Emergency Shelter and “Our Place Group Home,” which serves up to 18 foster children removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect.

HOPE Family Services - $5,000

HOPE Family Services in Bradenton provides critical support to survivors of domestic violence. Their services include emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and outreach aimed at helping survivors rebuild their lives free from violence and abuse. This grant will support individuals in crisis due to domestic violence by funding HOPE’s Emergency Safe Shelter, the only state-certified shelter in Manatee County.

Manatee County Habitat for Humanity - $5,000

Manatee County Habitat for Humanity works tirelessly to provide affordable housing solutions to families in need. Through volunteer labor and donations, they build and renovate homes, offering families the opportunity to become homeowners and build a stable future. This grant will help fund the construction of one of 30 homes Habitat for Humanity will build over 30 months in celebration of their 30th anniversary.

The Salvation Army of Sarasota County - $5,000

The Salvation Army in Sarasota provides a range of social services, including emergency shelter, food programs, and disaster relief. Their work is focused on meeting the basic needs of individuals and families while also providing pathways toward long-term stability. This grant will fund the second phase of a locker replacement project at the Center of Hope, a 240-bed shelter providing safe haven and support services for individuals facing homelessness, substance abuse recovery, and other challenges.

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota - $5,000

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota works to eliminate substandard housing by providing affordable homeownership opportunities to low-income families. Through their efforts, they empower individuals and families to achieve financial independence and build a better life for themselves and their communities. This grant will partially fund construction costs for a new, four-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family home in the DeSoto Lakes area.

 

---

These grants reflect the dedication of RASM and its members to fostering stronger, healthier communities. By supporting organizations that serve the homeless, survivors of violence, and families in need, the RRCF is making a meaningful impact across Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

For more information on how you can contribute to these efforts or get involved, visit www.MyRASM.com/donate.