Synergy: The interaction or cooperation of two or more entities to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
That is what the Heron Creek Community Foundation is based upon, that more can be achieved together than separately. This was proved by the efforts of the community following Hurricane Ian. In addition to the $14,000 worth of items purchased for the Awaken Food Pantry, residents generously donated 30 SUV and truckloads of necessary items for victims of the hurricane. Four drop-off locations in the community received loads of toiletries, cleaning supplies, diapers, baby wipes, furniture, bedding, clothing, and other items. Many residents also volunteered their time and manpower to work at various relief locations.
Board members and Foundation supporters met with the director of Awaken Food Pantry, Larry Grant to follow up on their relief efforts. Mr. Grant commented how thankful and appreciative they were for the help from the Heron Creek residents, both the contributions and the hands-on help.
Heron Creek Community Foundation 2022 Grants
Hurricane Ian also had an impact on the Grants Committee as they regrouped and refocused on the critical needs of North Port following the storm. The grant applications were reevaluated to ensure the greatest impact was made.
The Heron Creek Community Foundation 2022 Grant Recipients
North Port Meals on Wheels $10,000
Funds to be used to pay for groceries and trays for all clients who qualify for free meals according to NPMOW rules based on Federal Poverty Guidelines. http://www.northportmealsonwheels.org
Good Samaritan Pharmacy & Health Services, Inc. $2,450
Providing comprehensive medical treatment for the patients of North Port, including access to physicians, prescription drugs and diagnostic testing. www.goodsamrx.org
North Port Senior Center $5,050
Items include new computer and monitor, 12 – 3’x3’ tables, 48 new chairs, plastic ware, Microsoft program and installation, property insurance for 1 year. Misc. items for luncheons. This will enable the continued support of fellowship and mental acuity to senior members which is vital in our community. https://npseniorcenter.wixsite.com/npseniorcenter
Salvation Army of Sarasota County $2,500
Pathway of Hope Program for the clients of North Port. This program is geared towards mobilizing families from crisis to stability. It is rooted in case management approach, focusing on the clients’ individual needs and mastery of life skills. This program focuses on the core causes of poverty rather than treating the symptoms. This will help families overcome challenges like unemployment, underemployment lack of education, and unstable housing. www.salvationarmyflorida.org
Take Stock in Children $5,000
Sponsoring two incoming students from North Port includes 2-year college plan scholarships through the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. www.takestockinchildren.org
The Foundation is pleased to be presenting these agencies with their checks at a ceremony on Wednesday, December 14 at 10:00 a.m. The presentation will be at the North Port Chamber of Commerce Office at 1337 Sumter Blvd. Please join us there as we support those agencies doing so much for North Port citizens. The Foundation will also celebrate joining the chamber to enhance participation in the community.
Heron Creek Community Foundation Holiday Tour of Homes
The Second Holiday Home Tour is scheduled for Sunday, December 4, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Grab some friends and share the beauty and wonder of the holiday season as you visit each home. This is a free event and open to all Heron Creek Golf and Country Club members and residents. There will be an opportunity to make a cash donation to the “Giving Tree” at each home.
Revised Heron Creek Cookbook
In 2013 Heron Creek published its first cookbook “Heron Creek Entertains”. A second edition is being planned to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the cookbook. Please celebrate this edition by sharing your favorite recipes to be included. Recipes should be submitted by March 1, 2023, so the book is ready for publishing by August 1. Along with your recipes, please share your favorite restaurant and why it is your favorite. Recipes can be emailed to recipelady41@comcast.net.
Annual Meeting
Each year the Heron Creek Community Foundation holds a meeting to review the past year, make any necessary by-laws changes, elect new board members, and address any business as deemed necessary before membership. All members of the Foundation are encouraged to attend the meeting scheduled for Friday, January 20, 2023, in the club house dining room.
The Heron Creek Community Foundation is not affiliated with Heron Creek Associates, Ltd., Marsh Creek Holdings, Ltd., or Heron Creek Golf and Country Club.
