The Bridge a Life annual gala and silent auction, one of the Suncoast’s biggest fundraisers for foster and adoptive families, is officially sold out. But the mission doesn’t stop at the ballroom doors. The silent auction remains open to the public, and donations are still being accepted, meaning you can support local families without ever setting foot in the venue.
Bridge a Life Executive Director Jody Jester says the organization’s reach goes beyond foster and adoptive parents. It also supports relative and non-relative caregivers, grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends who step in when a child needs a home. That group, Jester notes, can get overlooked. Through the CarePortal platform, Bridge a Life connects families with urgent resources and provides training, meals, childcare and practical help, with the goal of keeping kids out of foster care when it’s safe to do so.
Want to get involved? The third annual pickleball tournament is set for Saturday, Nov. 28, at UMR, and the Superhero 5K and Fun Run returns in February at Nathan Benderson Park, where around a thousand runners are expected. Volunteers can also prepare meals, provide childcare, assist with home projects or give financially. So, which one sounds like you? Let us know in the comments.
