Community in Action
$17,000 Raised in 2024, Transforming Families Like Marielisa’s
During the 2024 Giving Challenge, our supporters came together to raise nearly $17,000 for Parenting Matters. Thanks to your generosity—and the 1:1 match from The Patterson Foundation—families across Manatee and Sarasota Counties gained access to the tools, coaching, and encouragement they needed to grow stronger together.
Your support reached far and wide: more than 14,500 people engaged with our campaign online, over 1,400 individuals interacted with our 52 posts and 10 videos, and bilingual content ensured that our Spanish-speaking client families were included every step of the way. But the true impact of your giving is best captured in the story of families like Marielisa Leyva’s.
Just two years ago, Marielisa described herself as being in a “black hole” of depression, anxiety, and fear. Trapped in an unhealthy relationship and feeling unworthy as a mother, she struggled to care for herself and her children. That’s when Parenting Matters stepped in—offering free, weekly counseling and parenting education funded in part by Giving Challenge donations.
With the guidance of Parenting Educator Marise Vergara, Marielisa gained the confidence to leave an abusive relationship, build healthier routines, and embrace her role as a mother. “They offered me the tools I needed to grow both as a person and as a mother,” she shared. Today, she describes herself as confident, brave, and strong—and her children are thriving because she is thriving.
This transformation was made possible because our community decided to “Be the One” in the 2024 Giving Challenge. Your donations fueled programs like Parent Partner, Chosen Families, Musical Motion, and Active Parenting, giving parents the tools to create safe, nurturing homes.
Looking ahead, Parenting Matters is preparing for the 10th Giving Challenge, happening April 15 – 16, 2026. Once again, every unique donation (up to $100) will be doubled thanks to The Patterson Foundation. The need remains great, and your support will ensure that more families, like Marielisa’s, can find hope, healing, and strength.
Thank you for being the one in 2024—we can’t wait to join forces again in 2026.