After visiting with representatives from ten local nonprofits on December 21, 2017, West Bradenton native Ray Baden reflects on a philanthropic accomplishment—grants totaling $500,000 awarded from the Sara and Ray Baden Fund of Manatee Community Foundation during the holidays since 2013.

For the last five years, Mr. Baden has selected 10 charitable organizations to each receive $10,000 for unrestricted use.

The real life Santa takes great pride in the organizations he supports and the difference hard-working nonprofit staff make in the lives of Manatee County residents.

“I’ve been able to do a lot in my life, and there are people who need money in Manatee County to do good things for other people,” said Baden at the morning reception in the lobby of Manatee Community Foundation.

Mr. Baden has worked in partnership with the Foundation for his philanthropy for many years. A hard-working man who was born and raised in West Bradenton, Ray Baden has lived, raised his family, worked, and given in the community, inspiring others to make a difference in the causes most important to them.

Recipients of grants from the Sara and Ray Baden Fund of Manatee Community Foundation in 2017 include:

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County
• Florida United Methodist Children’s Home
• Just for Girls
• Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee County
• Parenting Matters
• Salvation Army of Manatee County
• Season of Sharing Fund, Manatee County
• The South Florida Museum
• Turning Points
• Visible Men Academy

About Manatee Community Foundation
Manatee Community Foundation works together with philanthropic individuals and businesses to achieve lasting good in Manatee County. Now with $42 million in assets, the Foundation is home to more than 240 funds that address opportunities in our community in the areas of human services, health, animal welfare, the environment, arts and culture, and civic engagement. Since its founding in 1998, Manatee Community Foundation has awarded more than $20 million in grants and scholarships. For more information about the Manatee Community Foundation, visit www.manateecf.org or contact Susie Bowie, Executive Director, at (941) 556-5444.