Gulf Coast Builders Exchange collects gifts for foster children

The Gulf Coast Builders Exchange (www.GCBX.org), a not-for-profit trade organization, recently held its holiday social and collected over 90 gifts from its members to benefit children at the Sarasota YMCA Safe Children Coalition.

Over 180 people attended the sold-out Dec. 1 event at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Guests enjoyed a holiday-themed photo booth, appetizers and desserts and helped fulfill the wish lists of the foster children at the Sarasota YMCA Safe Children Coalition. Members also contributed almost $300 in donations and $200 in gift cards.

“The generosity of the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange’s members was overwhelming,” said Doreen Bartling, resource development coordinator for the Sarasota YMCA Safe Children Coalition. “With this large contribution, each child that comes into our care over the holiday will receive one of these wonderful gifts – from sports toys and games to stuffed animals and movies.”

Last year, Sarasota YMCA Safe Children Coalition served 1,200 children. This year, the nonprofit expects that number to increase to over 1,400.

Over 1,400 children in Sarasota, Manatee, and Desoto counties are not able to remain safely in their homes. Under the leadership of the Sarasota YMCA, the Safe Children Coalition is collaboration between the YMCA and local community entities that together provide a continuum of child welfare services for dependent children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned. Child protection services provided include case management, foster care, independent living and adoptions.

“From philanthropic donations and in-kind contributions to providing complimentary construction services to nonprofit organizations, our members continually exhibit their generosity – not only during the holiday season but throughout the entire year,” said Mary Dougherty-Slapp, executive director of the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange. “This is always one of the best events of the year, and we’re thrilled to be able to help brighten these children’s’ lives during the holiday season.”

About The Gulf Coast Builders Exchange

The Gulf Coast Builders Exchange was established in 1952 and is a not-for-profit corporation operating as a trade organization. Under the guidance of a volunteer board of directors, the organization’s philosophy of “members working with members” has been successful in helping individual members grow. This success has become the foundation for the continued development of the organization.

The GCBX membership is comprised of close to 400 companies in Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties. It includes some of the most respected contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, service providers and businesses in construction‑affiliated industries. For more information, visit www.GCBX.org.