Neal Communities, Southwest Florida’s premier homebuilder based in Lakewood Ranch, recently delivered a $10,000 donation to support several community programs through the Laurel Civic Agency.
“We are thrilled to have received such a generous donation from Neal Communities,” said Executive Director Peter Casamento. “This funding will help us provide training to individuals within Sarasota County who want to become gainfully employed or want to be better employees. We also will use the funds to assist with our teen summer program and after-school homework program for youth.”
Part of the funding will be used to support Laurel Civic Agency’s Job Empowerment Program, which is designed to help those struggling with employment to succeed. Through free workshops, participants learn critical workplace life skills, including how to conduct an effective job search, create a resume, interview effectively, handle stress, set goals and manage finances. Participants also learn how to develop behavior, life management and interpersonal skills to enhance their confidence and become more productive members of their communities.
The program continues after a participant has gained employment. Empowerment coaches regularly consult with participants to assess their progress and help guide them to overcome challenges.
Funding also will support Laurel Civic Agency’s Teen Empowerment Program, which is a summer camp dedicated to teaching the importance of becoming lifelong learners, leaders, community role models, productive workers and self-sufficient citizens. In addition, funding will be used to support an after-school homework program that pairs staff and volunteers with students needing assistance with their math, reading and science projects.
“We want to be part of the communities in which we build and help them to succeed,” said Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities. “Organizations like the Laurel Civic Agency are doing impactful work as well as supporting our youth. They are helping individuals and families improve their quality of life, and we’re proud to be able to support this program.”
This is one of several local charities that has received a donation from Neal Communities in recent years. Since its founding in 1970, Neal Communities, Southwest Florida’s largest locally owned private builder, has given more than $7 million to local charities.
