It Takes A Village: Giving Back To Help Others

When an injured sea bird is found on local beaches and waterways, who do you call? 

In Sarasota, that would be Save Our Seabirds (https://www.saveourseabirds.org/), a nationally recognized seabird rescue and rehabilitation sand rehabilitation sanctuary located on Longboat Key. 

Like all non-profits, Save Our Seabirds is adept at making do with limited resources, and relies on local organizations and individuals for support.  This week, Sandcastle Digital Design founder Don Scattergood joined with other Sarasota businesses in helping clear out and clean up some of the visitor grounds as part of “Fall for Sarasota”, an initiative by the Great Sarasota Chamber of Commerce (https://www.sarasotachamber.com/) aimed at raising awareness for local non-profit organizations.

Along with Leo Kissling, Director of Facilities and Grounds for Save Our Seabirds;  Katie Verkauskas, Banking Center Manager along with her team from  Bay First Bank, Don helped clear the plant beds damaged by last year’s moth brood emergence, given the native plants a chance to regain a foothold.

“Our area’s small businesses are the fuel that keep our region going and growing, but our nonprofits are the “heart” of Sarasota’s communities.  These folks care for our sick, provide food for our hungry, nurture our souls and shelter our bodies.  As a small business dependant on a vibrant community, Sandcastle Digital Design is proud to help our local nonprofit organizations keep our community together” said Don. “Special thanks to the Greater Sarasota Chamber, particularly Heather Kasten, President and CEO, and Celeste Lloyd-Joins, Event Manager, for putting “Fall for Sarasota” together and giving us the opportunity to participate.

Nonprofit organizations like Save Our Seabirds play a crucial role in our society. They address needs that often fall outside the scope of for-profit businesses and government institutions. Nonprofits fill the gaps by providing essential services and care—whether it’s protecting vulnerable wildlife, feeding the hungry, or offering support to those facing hardships. Without their contributions, many important causes would go unserved.