Suncoast 24-Hour Giving Challenge Raises $16.7 Million for Nonprofits

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County raised $16,760,000 during its 24-hour giving challenge, the organization announced as the event concluded.

The funds will benefit more than 750 nonprofits on the Suncoast.

Jessica Muroff, president and CEO of the Community Foundation, said the response was overwhelming.

“I’m having a hard time finding words because it is so overwhelming and exciting,” she said. “Just so grateful for everybody’s generosity and for their support of our nonprofit sector.”

The organization will distribute 100 percent of the funds raised back into the community. Nonprofits will use the money for their missions and community impact.

The event marked the 10th Giving Challenge. The fundraiser takes place every other year.

Muroff said the foundation will continue the tradition as long as the community supports it.

“There is no shortage of opportunities to encourage our community to give and to support our sector because people in our community, our nonprofits need this support,” she said. “It is the lifeline of keeping them going.”