Dollar Dynasty helps local children attend summer camp .

Unfortunately, for too many low income and homeless students, summer is not a vacation. These children often find themselves at loose ends without school routine or adult supervision. Summer day camps are one solution; however, they can be expensive and out of reach.

Dollar Dynasty has been raising money to pay for summer camps for 14 years. According to founder Victoria Brown, “It is a great opportunity to get these kids off the street and into a fun, safe environment. “

Dollar Dynasty is proud to help sponsor summer camp for children ages 6 thru 16. Parents will have to pay part of the fee for the 10-week camp. They must first register at Dollar Dynasty to receive assistance. Registrations will be accepted at Dollar Dynasty on Mondays and Tuesdays between 10AM-4PM beginning March 25th. Please bring both children’s and parents’ ID and proof of the school they are attending. Once registered at Dollar Dynasty, they will still need to complete an application at either the Robert Taylor Center or the Roy McBean Boys and Girls Club. For more information, call 941- 955-8091 or check the website, dollardynasty.org.

Ms. Brown is hoping to raise more money to send additional children to these camps. Unfortunately, each year, camp costs increase, and it is difficult to meet the increased fees. To contribute to the Dollar Dynasty summer camp program or any of its other programs, please send a donation to Dollar Dynasty, PO Box 5975, Sarasota, FL 34277.

At the 16th Annual “Sharing the Dream” Recognition Luncheon and Fundraiser, Victoria Brown CEO and Founder of Dollar Dynasty gave awards to members of the community who have contributed to Dollar Dynasty’s mission of improving the community. Simon Ford was named Man of the Year for his long-time service. Sheryl Lane, Jacqueline Jones and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority also received awards for their help and support.

Sheila Atkins presided over the ceremonies and shared her magnificent voice with an acapella selection. Speakers Derrick Thompson and Katelyn Grimmett spoke about the importance of Dollar Dynasty to the community. Gregory Neilson and the Booker Middle School Jazz provided outstanding musical entertainment.

In addition to sending children to summer camps, Dollar Dynasty works year-round to improve the community. It gives assistance to more than 800 people each month. It provides families with basic life needs, such as food, clothing, and educational supplies. Counseling, career development, spiritual guidance, and referrals for housing, shelter and crisis networks are also available. For children, they offer summer camps, educational programs, field trips, school supplies and holiday toy drives.

Dollar Dynasty does not receive city, county or federal funding. All the nonprofit’s donations, proceeds and scholarships come from local businesses, organizations, citizens and through its Community Store sales. The staff are all unpaid volunteers.

For all these reasons, Dollar Dynasty needs your support. This charity is local, independent, and impacts the community it serves. To contribute to the Dollar Dynasty summer camp program or its other programs, please send a donation to Dollar Dynasty, PO Box 5975, Sarasota, FL 34277 or call 941- 955-8091 or email dollardynasty@comcast.net for more information.

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