FRONT PORCH

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 www.NealCommunities.com.