Five ways you can make a positive impact in St. Pete
If you’re searching for a way to give back to your community, the Catalyst’s Impact Connector is here to help. Each week, we feature five organizations in the Tampa Bay area that need your input, whether that’s time, talent, items, funding or simply awareness. We’re certain you’ll find something here that matches your interests and will positively impact the community.
Learn about local nonprofits and vote for a winner
The public is invited to attend Fast Pitch, an annual event where local nonprofit leaders compete for unrestricted grant funding by delivering their best elevator pitch in front of a live audience. The seven Tampa Bay organizations participating in the year’s Fast Pitch – culminating in the Feb. 12 signature event at the Tampa Theatre – are EmpowHERment, Florida Dream Center, Girls Rock St. Pete, NAMI Pinellas County, New Tampa Players, Water Smart Tots Foundation and WellFed Community. Each nonprofit works with mentors to develop a three-minute pitch detailing their organization’s goals and how they plan to fund operations if they win one of the monetary prizes. A panel of judges picks first, second and third place, and the audience gets to choose a winner of their own. Learn more and get tickets here.
Join the ‘Good Guys’ and give back
Men who are motivated to give back are invited to join 100 Good Guys, a newly launched giving circle in Pinellas County. The format is simple: 100 people get together and watch a five-minute pitch from three local nonprofits, after which the crowd selects a winner and donates $100 each to the chosen charity, expanding their giving power and getting to know the people and organizations doing great work in the community in the process. Learn more about the organization here and sign up for the next meeting on the 100 Good Guys’ website.
Clear the shelves at Habitat for Humanity’s closing stores
Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and Pasco Counties is closing its two area ReStore locations in order to fully focus on building affordable housing for local families. You can still shop now and receive 25% off your purchase, which will go to Habitat’s affordable housing mission. Check out the ReStore at 13355 49th St North Suite B, Clearwater 33762.
Support expansion plans at a local aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium – a rehab and recovery facility – is trying to raise $32 million for an expansion. Aquarium leaders said a new capital campaign would allow them to create a penguin exhibit, bring in new animals and enhance veterinary services. They also said the new initiative would bring in more manatees, sea lions, sharks, penguins, albino alligators and additional dolphins. You can support the aquarium by purchasing a ticket to visit or donate to the capital campaign online.
Help make St. Pete a shopper’s paradise
The Localtopia market brings 300+ vendors to Williams Park each year, turning downtown St. Petersburg into a hub for shopping, entertainment and food. An army of volunteers are needed to help pull off this massive event. If you’re free Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., a variety of shifts and tasks are available. Get the details and sign up here.
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By engaging in these five impactful ways to give back, we can empower our communities and contribute to a more compassionate society. If your organization is seeking volunteers, donations or awareness, click here to submit your opportunity. We’ll get the word out to our readers.
