Sanibel-Captiva Recovery Fund Announces First Distributions & $125k Match Challenge

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) is pleased to announce the first distributions from the Sanibel-Captiva Recovery Fund in the wake of Hurricane Milton. A generous $20,000 donation from the Shady Rest Foundation has enabled CFI to grant $10,000 each to FISH of SanCap for mental health services and to CHR for equipment replacement.

Additionally, the CFI Grants Committee has awarded $25,000 grants to both FISH and CHR for positive aging projects, funded through the Shady Rest Foundation Fund

Looking ahead, remaining Recovery Fund donations will be dedicated to supporting small businesses, with an initial goal of distributing $250,000. To advance this effort, an anonymous donor has pledged a $125,000 1:1 matching challenge, with a deadline of December 31. CFI has already raised $78,000 toward the match and invites the community to contribute. Those interested in supporting this vital initiative can contact Dolly Farrell, Executive Director, visit MyCFI.org/donate or mail checks to PO Box 1429, Sanibel, FL 33957.

CFI extends its gratitude to key community partners. FISH of SanCap will serve as the administrator for the assistance program, leveraging its expertise to support local businesses. Additionally, Alex Bustamante from the Sanibel Captiva Chamber of Commerce is available to guide businesses through the CFI application process and other regional, state, and national funding opportunities.

For more information about CFI grants and other small business recovery resources, visit the Chamber’s website at www.sancaprecovery.org.

Registration for Community Groups now Open for Volunteer Expo January 16, 2025

Calling all Sanibel and Captiva clubs, nonprofits and community groups! Registration is now open for you to participate on January 16, 2025 at the Volunteer Expo presented by the Charitable Foundation of the Islands and powered by the Pfeifer Realty Group. This is your opportunity to share your mission, highlight your programs, and cultivate valuable opportunities within our community. 

What better way to honor tradition than by hosting this event at the Sanibel Community House from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm.  Each group that would like to participate will be provided a table to showcase its organization.  This is a great chance to expand your network and engage with individuals who are passionate about making a difference. 

In addition, along with your RSVP to participate, we request a submission of your organization's contact information and details to be incorporated in this year's Volunteer Opportunities Directory. The directory will be distributed at the event and will be available to view online at www.MyCFI.org after the event. 

To ensure your spot at the event and be included in the Volunteer Opportunities Directory, please RSVP by November 26, 2024 using the link below.

Volunteer EXPO RSVP Form

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to strengthen our community, especially in these unprecedented and challenging times!

Questions? Email events@sancapcfi.org 

Read about the 2023 Expo here:

Get Inspired! Expo Connects Island Nonprofits with Volunteers Event attracts full house of people who want to help rebuild. — Charitable Foundation of the Islands