The Manatee Matches Giving Circle is a group of caring individuals that meets annually to make joint decisions about their giving to selected nonprofit organizations that serve Manatee County residents. This year, the group has chosen to dedicate their combined charitable contributions to provide 1:1 matching dollars—up to $100,000—to support the newly created Manatee County COVID-19 Community Response Fund.

The Manatee County COVID-19 Community Response Fund, established by an anonymous donor at Manatee Community Foundation, will provide grants to public charities working in the space of health and human services that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Like many people who believe in the power of smart giving, we realize that this time requires us to think differently and to respond quickly so that we can support our community with its growing needs. We feel that this is the best way to make a difference while inspiring others to contribute and double their own impact for Manatee County,” said Sandy Kirkpatrick, a founding member of the Manatee Matches Giving Circle.

The Manatee Matches Giving Circle was established in 2014 and has awarded more than $585,750. Together with the required matching from individual donors, the overall giving catalyzed by the Fund has exceeded more than $1.17 million.

To make your tax-deductible gift to the Manatee County COVID-19 Community Response Fund, eligible for matching, visit Manatee Community Foundation online at ManateeCF.org, call 941.747.7765, or mail your check made out to Manatee Community Foundation (COVID-19 Fund in memo line) to 2820 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton FL 34205.

Manatee Community Foundation was established in 1998 and has awarded more than $30 million in grants and scholarships based on the wishes of its generous donors.