The Calusa Sportsman Foundation has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the children and families of Southwest Florida, raising an extraordinary $177,000 at the fourth annual Inshore Benefit held on September 6-7, 2024. This event, hosted at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, benefited both Valerie’s House and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County, helping these organizations continue their missions of providing essential services to children and families in need.

This year’s Inshore Benefit brought together community members for a two-day celebration of camaraderie, philanthropy, and support for local causes. The event kicked off with a Captain’s Dinner and raffle, followed by a fishing tournament, awards dinner, and live auction the next day. On September 30, Calusa Sportsman Foundation representatives presented $88,500 checks to each nonprofit, splitting the total proceeds equally. For Valerie’s House, this partnership has provided invaluable resources, helping us expand our programs and enhance our services to grieving families.

"The Calusa Sportsman Foundation has been one of the largest supporters to our children and families over the past three years,” shared Angela Melvin, Founder and CEO of Valerie’s House. “Thanks to their generosity, we have been able to form invaluable connections with new families and volunteers, allowing us to continue our mission of providing a safe space for children to heal and find hope after loss.”

Since its inception, the Calusa Sportsman Foundation has raised a total of $645,000 for charitable causes, with Valerie’s House benefiting from three consecutive years as the sole beneficiary. This year, the Foundation broadened its impact by including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County, recognizing the needs of families throughout Southwest Florida.

Impact of Calusa Sportsman Foundation’s Support

The funds contributed by the Calusa Sportsman Foundation will go toward essential projects and programs that allow Valerie’s House to continue providing grief support for children and families coping with loss. These enhancements include physical renovations to our welcoming spaces, program expansion to reach more families, and the creation of new volunteer opportunities within our organization. These essential upgrades directly impact our families, providing a warm, healing environment that fosters growth and connection.

Mike Dannenhauer, one of the foundation’s founders, shared the heart behind the organization’s dedication: “We are truly honored to be part of these initiatives. These funds that our community has helped achieve will go towards projects and program enhancements, allowing additional opportunities for children and their families. We are humbled to know that our contribution will help make an impact on those around us.”

A Strong Community of Supporters

The event’s success would not have been possible without the dedicated support of sponsors who helped make this year’s Inshore Benefit a memorable and impactful occasion. Juniper Landscaping served as the Grand Charter Sponsor, and Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings sponsored event hats. Five County Insurance Agency, Better Buildings Inc., Lennar, Mike Patrick Electric, and many others contributed as sponsors, covering various needs and helping ensure the event’s success.

For Valerie’s House, the ongoing support from the Calusa Sportsman Foundation, sponsors, and volunteers has a profound and lasting impact, allowing us to meet the growing demand for grief support services in Southwest Florida. By partnering with organizations like the Calusa Sportsman Foundation, Valerie’s House can provide an enduring foundation of hope, healing, and community for families experiencing loss.

To our community, the Calusa Sportsman Foundation, and all who participated, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your support has made a transformative difference in the lives of grieving children and families in Southwest Florida. For more information on how you can contribute to Valerie’s House or become a part of this incredible network of supporters, please visit www.valerieshouse.org.