MSC Foundation: Because Sometimes You Just Need a Lift

In January 2014, the MSC Foundation convened for a grant giving ceremony honoring twenty-seven local organizations whose dedication and hard work contribute to making the Gulf Coast a better community for those who live here. At that time, we wanted to delve a little deeper and find out how the efforts of our Michael Saunders & Company agents and staff directly affect certain organizations and individuals. We took the opportunity to interview three grant recipients and Foundation contributors.  Watch this video to learn more about the Foundation’s mission and how grant money positively impacts those at  Just for Girls, the Charlotte Local Education Foundation, and Habitat for Humanity Sarasota. Then, as we continue our organization spotlight each month, we’re featuring ITN Sarasota and The Players Inc. – who were also recipients at the January grant giving ceremony. ITN Sarasota Providing transportation for seniors, the Independent Transportation Network (ITN) offers rides within Sarasota, Venice, Osprey, Nokomis, and Longboat Key. Older adults who join become dues-paying members helping to ensure their independence and mobility. Like using one’s own automobile, the service is available 24/7 and gives customer the flexibility to schedule their rides in advance or as needed. Fares are typically lower than taxi services, customer service is paramount, and private automobiles are used in lieu of vans or buses. For more information, visit the ITN Sarasota website. The Players Inc. This community theatre has been ingrained in Sarasota for almost 85 seasons. One of their notable initiatives is the Building Better Grownups Scholarship Program which creates opportunities for disadvantaged youth to experience the personal and creative development that comes from a theatre arts education. Children of low-income families are awarded scholarships for the Stage Door Workshop Summer Camp program. In the program, children gain skills that teach them the importance of team work, discipline, creativity and confidence.   Have you experienced the outreach from any of these community organizations? Let us know about your experiences in the comments below.