FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Sept. 17, 2025

Parenting Matters reaches 46,000 in three months, invites businesses to invest in children’s Futures

BRADENTON, Fla. — Sept. 17, 2025 — Parenting Matters has reached more than 46,000 people in the past three months through its online parenting education outreach and other campaigns and earned nearly 30 mentions in regional, state and national media. The nonprofit, celebrating more than 30 years of impact, is now calling on businesses and community leaders to support its work in strengthening families across Manatee and Sarasota counties.

In the last three months alone, Parenting Matters’ online parenting education messaging has reached over 46,000 people and engaged nearly 6,000. The nonprofit also earned nearly 30 mentions in regional, state and national media, amplifying its mission thanks to the support of journalists and local outlets.

“Media coverage has been a powerful partner in sharing our work and encouraging families to seek help,” said Katie Becker, executive director of Parenting Matters. “We are deeply grateful to the journalists and outlets who have helped Parenting Matters reach parents when they need it most.”

Parenting Matters has been working with local families for more than 30 years. But, just in the past decade, it has served more than 7,000 families and 22,000 individuals in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Its parenting education programs include in-home services, community-based groups, classes and workshops — all offered at little or no cost. Last year alone, the organization supported 867 parents and 1,178 children through 429 community classes and workshops.

Parenting Matters is inviting businesses and community leaders to help sustain and expand this vital work. Sponsorship opportunities include

  • 9th Annual Sangarita Showdown – Nov. 14: A lively competition among local restaurants, with proceeds supporting families in our community.
  • Special Projects Campaign: With $70,000 already pledged by Manatee Matches, Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation and Parenting Matters’ Board of Directors, we’re working to raise the final $35,000 by year’s end. This campaign supports our $125,000 goal to pay off our building, fuel our mission and strengthen families for generations to come.
  • Compassionate Companies: Our annual sponsorship program, giving businesses the opportunity to demonstrate a year-round commitment to keeping children safe and helping them reach their full potential.

“Every sponsorship, every donation, is an investment in children’s futures and in the health of our community,” said Rebekah Prieto, director of development and marketing. “We invite local businesses to stand alongside families by supporting an event, contributing to our campaign or helping us spread the word.”

For sponsorship opportunities or more information, please contact Director Rebekah Prieto at RPrieto@ParentingMattersFL.org.

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About Parenting Matters

Parenting Matters strengthens families in Southwest Florida through evidence-based parenting education and support. Since 1994, we’ve helped parents of children ages 0–17 build skills, confidence and stronger bonds with their children.

As one of only 67 nationally Accredited Child Abuse Prevention Centers — and one of just three in Florida — we deliver high-quality, personalized programs in both English and Spanish. From in-home visits to group workshops, we meet families where they are, often at no cost.

Mission: Advancing the lives of children, together, with their parents.

Vision: A future where all children have the chance to succeed.

Media contact

Francis Garcia

Communications Coordinator

Office: (941) 756 – 3007

Cell: (941) 226 – 3290

FGarcia@ParentingMattersFL.org

ParentingMatters.org