The largest gathering to date highlights how personalized parenting education and community support strengthen families across Manatee and Sarasota counties
BRADENTON, Fla. — July 22, 2026 — Parenting Matters brought supporters, partners, staff and families together on June 18 for its 2026 IMPACT Celebration, the organization’s largest to date. Rather than lead with statistics, the event centered the experiences of five local families whose stories showed how timely parenting support, encouragement and practical resources can strengthen entire households.
Teena described how Musical Motion helped her granddaughter, Journey, grow in confidence, communication and social development through music, movement and play. Joe and Leyla shared how working with Parenting Educator Jackie helped them better understand their triggers, communicate more effectively and parent as a more united team. Dana spoke about finding hope and a trusted guide while raising a family in a new country.
Mike and Wendy reflected on becoming parents almost overnight and the continuing support their family received through the Chosen Families program, including counseling, educational advocacy and respite services. Pam shared how Parenting Educator Tracey has provided consistent encouragement and guidance as she works to build a healthy future for her son.
“The IMPACT Celebration reminds us that behind every program and service is a family with a story of resilience, growth and hope. Hearing these families share their journeys showed what is possible when parents receive the right support and a community chooses to walk alongside them. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helps make that support possible.”
Guests also took part in a Musical Motion demonstration using finger puppets, egg shaker maracas, and colorful scarves. The hands-on activity offered a glimpse of the welcoming, play-based environment in which young children and caregivers build skills, confidence and stronger connections.
Across the five stories, a common thread emerged: parents are not meant to navigate life’s challenges alone. A listening ear, a trusted educator and support tailored to a family’s needs can create meaningful change for both parents and children.
The celebration was made possible by businesses, individuals and community partners committed to local families. Parenting Matters recognized MCR Health, the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Axiom Strategic Counseling, SaraMana Business Solutions, Forza Education Management, Blue Collar Roofing and Stewart Title, along with an individual donor and a donor-advised fund contributor.
To learn more about Parenting Matters programs, volunteer opportunities or community partnerships, visit ParentingMatters.org or contact Rebekah Prieto at RPrieto@ParentingMattersFL.org or (941) 756-3007.
About Parenting Matters
Parenting Matters strengthens families in Southwest Florida through evidence-based parenting education and support. Since 1994, the nonprofit has helped parents of children ages 0–17 build skills, confidence and stronger bonds with their children. Programs are delivered in English and Spanish and include in-home support, group workshops, parent-child programming and resources tailored to each family’s needs. Parenting Matters serves families in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Its mission is advancing the lives of children, together, with their parents. Its vision is a future where all children have the chance to succeed.
