Grant Recipient Survey Results

Organization Name: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

Date Survey was Submitted: August 12, 2026 at 8:12 am

Contact Name: Kamala Martinez

Contact Phone: 941-488-4009

Contact Email: development@bbbssun.org

Were the funds spent with a year of grant receipt?   Yes

If no, please explain why not below:

How was the money used?

All $3,000 in grant funding from The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation was utilized to provide 12 graduating Sarasota and Manatee clients living below the poverty line with their own “college readiness basket.” Each of these at-risk clients graduated high school in May 2026, had been accepted to a college or university, had the opportunity to live on campus, but lacked the financial means for basic necessities. Each College Readiness Basket consisted of a laundry basket filled with the basic necessities that these students need: comforter/sheet set, pillow, laundry detergent, hygiene items, shower caddy, towels, lamp, first aid kit, etc.

Was there an unexpected benefit or a special outcome from this grant that you would like to share? Yes

If yes, please explain:

Although it was not unexpected, it is always heartwarming to see the sincere gratitude on the part of the high school graduate recipients–and their family–when they receive what they need to be successful in life. It showed them that they do indeed have a community that cares about their life challenges, their journey, and their efforts to become self-sufficient.

How many people were impacted by this grant?

12 graduates received the college-ready items, and their families were also impacted.

Please indicate the number of women, children, and/or families residing in Sarasota and/or Manatee County who were directly impacted by this grant.

12 graduating youth and about 36 total family members

Do you have any suggestions to improve our grant process.

It was a smooth grant process!

Did you find the grant process succinct and easy to submit? Yes

Comments:

We are grateful for The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation’s generous support of the at-risk youth that we serve! Our partnership in serving some of the most vulnerable youth in our local community has been invaluable to youth that are working hard to overcome their young life’s challenges.

Would a representative from your organization be willing to speak to our group about the impact of your grant?  Yes

Additional information:

Receipts are certainly available if needed.