FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Aug. 14, 2025
With more than 70% of funds already pledged, Parenting Matters launches Special Projects Campaign to strengthen families and prevent child abuse
BRADENTON, Fla. — Aug. 14, 2025 — Parenting Matters has launched its Special Projects Campaign, a targeted fundraising initiative to clear the organization’s mortgage for its Bradenton headquarters building, upgrade critical technology and invest more directly in services for local families. The campaign goal is $125,000, with more than 70% already pledged.
Thanks to three generous matching pledges, every donor gift will go further:
- Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation pledged to match up to $20,000 towards the mortgage payoff — satisfied in full by the W. Paul Hoenle Foundation
- Manatee Matches Giving Circle of Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) will match donations up to $25,000 for technology upgrades and the launch of a new client database system
- Parenting Matters’ Board of Directors, employees and close friends pledged nearly $25,000 toward the campaign, with 100% of board members participating
The impact of this campaign will be felt in homes like Jason’s. After years of no contact with his son, Jason unexpectedly stepped into the role of full-time father when the boy’s mother died.
With no parenting experience — and a child coping with profound grief — Jason faced overwhelming challenges. Through Parenting Matters, he was paired with a Parenting Educator who helped the two navigate their new relationship, connect with grief counseling and create routines grounded in love and structure. Today, Jason is an engaged, nurturing father whose son is thriving at school, participating in after-school programs and building strong character.
“Our mission is to help strengthen families, because strong families build a stronger community,” said Katie Becker, executive director of Parenting Matters. “Paying off our mortgage and modernizing our technology means we can put more of every dollar directly into programs that ensure children grow up in safe, nurturing homes. Jason’s story is just one example of how critical these resources are — and how every gift to this campaign changes lives.”
Teri A Hansen, CEO of Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation, added, “At Barancik Foundation, we are committed to removing barriers that keep organizations from reaching their full potential. Paying off Parenting Matters’ mortgage isn’t just a financial milestone — it’s a strategic move that frees them to focus entirely on strengthening families, preventing child abuse and building a healthier community.”
“Technology is the bridge that connects families to the resources they need, when they need them most,” said Jeanie Kirkpatrick, chair of Manatee Matches. “By matching donations for Parenting Matters’ technology upgrades, we’re helping ensure that no parent has to face challenges alone — and that support is just a click or a call away.”
“Manatee County’s population is growing rapidly, and more programming is needed to ensure every family has an opportunity to succeed. MCF has enjoyed a deep partnership with Parenting Matters for many years and has watched the organization grow and amplify its impact, particularly to support the underserved. Infrastructure investments in organizations like Parenting Matters directly result in stronger families, brighter futures for our children and an opportunity for all to thrive in Manatee, and beyond,” said Veronica Thames, CEO of Manatee Community Foundation.
The Special Projects Campaign runs through Dec. 31, 2025, when matching funds will expire. Donors at every level will be recognized on Parenting Matters’ interactive Virtual Donor Wall, with major donors honored on a permanent wall inside the Parenting Matters Bradenton headquarters.
Every day we delay means fewer families served. With the clock ticking on matching funds, every gift matters now more than ever.
Join us, and visit ParentingMatters.org or contact Rebekah Prieto, director of development and marketing, at (941) 756-3007 or RPrieto@ParentingMattersFL.org, to make a donation today.
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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