Committing up to $300,000 to strengthen bayfront planning effort

The Patterson Foundation will provide up to $300,000 in catalytic funding and consulting support benefiting the formation and work of the Sarasota Bayfront Planning Organization. Through a multi-sector, community-centered approach, the Sarasota Bayfront Planning Organization will create a plan for nearly 42 acres of land on Sarasota’s bayfront. Following the positive response from Sarasota City Commissioners, The Patterson Foundation, which is a fully endowed foundation, is providing this financial commitment as a catalyst by contributing immediate support and challenge opportunities that can propel fundraising by community volunteers. “Due to the dedication of the tireless volunteers focused on a quality process, The Patterson Foundation is committed to strengthening the planning phase by providing this funding opportunity,” said Debra Jacobs, president and CEO of The Patterson Foundation. “As citizens of this community, we realize the planning phase will be critical to the success of this multi-faceted journey, and our goal is to accelerate the solid steps that have already been taken.” The Patterson Foundation’s support includes:

1) $100,000 contribution toward the formation and work of Sarasota Bayfront Planning Organization

2) $100,000 contribution when the community donates $1 million (*The Patterson Foundation's initial contribution is not included in this goal)

3) $100,000 capping contribution when the community donates $2.4 million (*The Patterson Foundation's two previous contributions are included in this goal) Sarasota Bayfront 20:20 began when the community came together to create a long-term master plan aligned with a vision and guiding principles. More than 50 stakeholders, including businesses, neighborhoods and civic groups have embraced this vision and guiding principles. Since March 2016, The Patterson Foundation has provided consulting expertise to a Framework Team of volunteers who developed a framework to create a planning organization. The Patterson Foundation will continue to provide facilitation support as requested by the Framework Team and Sarasota Bayfront Planning Organization. photo credit:  Repose via photopin (license)