Brandon Foundation to Host Charity Summit, Wine and Food Gala

The Brandon area's nonprofit groups will have a chance to discuss their programs, services and needs with other nonprofit groups at the Greater Brandon Community Foundation's first quarterly Charity Summit Tuesday, Aug. 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Bridges retirement center, 11202 Dewhurst Drive, Riverview.

The guest speaker will be Cindy Sofarelli, group vice president of the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA who will talk about recruiting and retaining volunteers. 

The goal of the summit, according to Debbie Kirkland, administrative director of the foundation, is to provide educational opportunities and create awareness for Brandon area nonprofits. 

Attendees will be given the opportunity to share a 30-second description of their organization.  Lunch will be provided by the Newberry Restaurant Group (Subway). 

Attendance is free for all local nonprofits, but seating is limited. RSVP to Kirkland at 813-689-6889 or e-mail her at debbiekirkland@brandonfoundation.com.

The Greater Brandon Community Foundation supports more than 53 charities in the Greater Brandon Area through its fundraisers including its signature Charity Golf Classic.

The foundation currently is making plans for its fourth annual Southern Charm Wine & Food Gala Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Straz Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa.

The black-tie optional affair will include a VIP event from 6 to 8 p.m. for $125. The gala runs from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets are $75, or $50 if purchased before Aug. 1.

Participating restaurants and other businesses include GrillSmith, Chart House, Carrabbas's Italian Grill, The Rack Sushi Bar and Billiards Lounge, Texas de Brazil, Winthrop Liquors, Rock Sake, Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida, J.J. Taylor, Postcard Inn on the Beach, The Catering Company, Hard Rock Cafe Tampa, Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, Toffee to Go, Beam Global Spirits & Wine Inc. and Miller Lite.

The event will include an auction of items including roundtrip airforce to the Cayman Islands, a Florida State Fair Family Fun Pack, a wine-tasting for 12, one year of phone, cable and Internet service from Bright House, a Carrabba's basket, diamond jewelry, gift certificates to restaurants, a Coach purse, a weekend stay at Postcard Inn on St. Pete Beach, a two-night stay at Sirata Beach Resort, a party at the EPCOT Center and a signed print by T.W. Curtis.

  For tickets, visit http://www.brandonfoundation.com/tickets.html.