Parenting Matters

Small moments of support can change everything.

Behind every stronger family is encouragement, connection, and a community willing to care. The Parenting Matters IMPACT Celebration honors the parents, supporters, educators, and advocates helping create brighter futures for children and families throughout our community.

Join us for an afternoon focused on hope, impact, and meaningful connection.

📍 The Venue @ LEC Sarasota
📅 Thursday, June 18
🕛 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Reserve your spot by June 6: https://bit.ly/4ukhJ78

Just 15 minutes a day builds vocabulary and connection.

Community connections, family wellness, and a day full of fun! 💙

Elizabeth Sierra, Kim Cartano, Solimar Ayala, and Jane Trinci represented Parenting Matters at the MCR Health Fair at The Ringling, joining families from across our community for a day focused on health, education, and connection.

From health screenings and educational resources to live music, children's activities, and healthy food distribution, the event provided valuable opportunities for families to access important services while enjoying a fun day together.

Thank you to MCR Health and all the organizations that helped make this incredible community event possible. We are always grateful for opportunities to connect with families and share resources that support stronger, healthier communities.

It might seem like a small detail, but having a bit of beauty to brighten our entry way really makes a big difference. We received a special delivery from our friend (who happens to be one of the founders of Parenting Matters) Barbara Brownell. Barbara arrived in stealth fashion with our flower refresh. Every time we walk through the door and see them, we think of Barbara.

When communities come together, families grow stronger. 💗

The Parenting Matters IMPACT Celebration is an opportunity to connect with others committed to supporting children, encouraging parents, and building a stronger community for future generations.

We look forward to celebrating the people, partnerships, and moments creating lasting impact throughout our region.

📍 The Venue @ LEC Sarasota
📅 Thursday, June 18
🕛 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Reserve your spot by June 6. : https://bit.ly/4ukhJ78

Children thrive when emotions are acknowledged and guided.

Earlier this month, Katie Becker, Kelly Benford, and Marise Vergara traveled to Destin, FL, to attend the 104th Florida District Exchange Clubs Convention, a weekend centered around leadership, advocacy, collaboration, and supporting children and families throughout our communities.

The convention included leadership training sessions, fundraising efforts benefiting Florida’s Child Abuse Prevention Centers, the Florida Youth Speech Contest, and opportunities to connect with others dedicated to strengthening families across the state. Congratulations as well to Matthew M. of the Emerald Coast Exchange Club on being selected as one of the Youth Speech Contest finalists!

During the convention, Parenting Matters Parenting Educator Marise Vergara was honored with the Wodtke Award, recognizing parenting educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication and support to the families they serve.

For more than 10 years, Marise has played a meaningful role in helping families build confidence, strengthen parenting skills, and access resources that create safer, healthier environments for children. Through her compassion, consistency, and ability to connect with families from diverse backgrounds, she continues to make a lasting impact throughout our community.

We are incredibly proud of Marise and grateful for the care, encouragement, and support she brings to families every single day. 💙

The Parenting Matters IMPACT Celebration honors the families, supporters, educators, advocates, and community leaders working together to create lasting change for the next generation.

We look forward to celebrating the power of connection, support, and impact with our community on June 18.

Reserve a spot before June 6th: https://bit.ly/4ukhJ78

Come together with people who care. 💗

The Parenting Matters IMPACT Celebration is about recognizing the power of community, support, and connection in the lives of families and children.

Join local leaders, families, and supporters on June 18 from 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM at The Venue @ LEC in Sarasota as we celebrate the moments, relationships, and encouragement that continue to create lasting impact throughout our community.

Register by June 6.

Click Here to Register: https://bit.ly/4ukhJ78