September 2023
TUESDAY, September 12TH 2023
ANGEL MONTHLY MEETING
Sometimes I feel like a broken record, but our Angel Meetings just keep getting better and better every month. A BIG shout out to our guest speakers for telling us about the wonderful things they are doing in our community. Melanie Benner, Missions Coordinator | BridgePoint Church, who told our group about their “Building Beds” program and their other outreach programs, and Diana Santangelo, PhD, Director, Thrive by 5 told us about what they are providing to families. Following the speakers, our monthly updates by our services providers are always so full of information. We all learn something new every month! Let’s not forget about our upcoming Blue Ribbon Gala that is just around the corner November 3rd 2023, we can use your help with gift cards or silent auction baskets. Please let us know if you can help! We also need volunteers for setting up the morning of the event!
Knowledge is POWER!
Our September meeting we will have another great speaker Dr. Yolanda White. Below you can read a little about Dr. White and what she does in our community. See below:
Thank you for your participation in making our meetings so interesting and informative.
TUESDAY, September 12TH 2023, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
PASADENA COMMUNITY CHURCH, LIFE ENRICHMENT CENTER
227 70TH STREET SOUTH
ST PETERSBURG, FL
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU RSVP SO WE CAN MAKE SURE THE ROOM IS SET UP PROPERLY.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!
Dr. Yolanda N. White, CEO of Pure Mind Assessments & Consulting, LLC, certified school psychologist in Florida and Arizona. She has been an educator for 8 years working in private and public sectors. She loves helping children and adolescents become the best version of themselves. Dr White conducts a psychoeducational evaluations in a school setting for students suspected of having a disability. She consults with parents, teachers, and the community on what interventions may be appropriate for the child at home, at school, and in the community. She also provides counseling services focusing on Executive Functioning Skills, ADHD, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, and Self-Esteem. She utilizes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), talk therapy, draw therapy, and mindfulness strategies as well. Please feel free to book with me if you want to consult about services for your child or if you want your child to receive counseling services. https://puremindassessmentsandconsulting.com/about
Book Here!
https://www.schedulicity.com/scheduling/PMAUTMS
2023 ANNUAL CHILD ADVOCACY EXPO
A HUGE SUCCESS
The Angels 2023 Child Advocacy Expo, August 24th 2023 was a wonderful success. The room was filled with a lot of energy and over 52 agencies networking the room. We also had individuals, businesses and potential donors learning about all the resources that are available in our community. We heard from 3 powerful speakers for updates of what is happening in the child welfare system. Our special thanks to, Samantha Taylor, Florida Department Of Children and Families, Jenn Petion, Family Support Services Suncoast, and April Lott, Directions For Living. Their knowledge of what is happening in our community was very informative and helpful and we appreciate their taking time from their busy schedules to attend our event. By popular demand, the attendees hope we have this event again in 2024.
Special thanks to the Pinellas Realtor Organization (PRO), for providing this venue for our Expo. It was the perfect location and venue for holding an event like this that is so conveniently located for our attendees. Special thanks to one of our Angels and Board Member, Kim Bauer for making this possible with your affiliation with PRO. Thank you to those individuals at PRO who once again hosted this event at this location. And finally, thank you to our amazing volunteers for prepping the room as our guests arrived and accommodating all their needs for set-up. Without all of you making this happen, we could not do what we do!
ANNUAL ANGEL AWARENESS EVENT/ BLUE RIBBON GALA 2023
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD 2023
6:00 PM – 11 PM
ST PETERSBURG YACHT CLUB
11 CENTRAL AVENUE
ST PETERSBURG, FL
HEROES AND MENTORS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
There are Angels that cross our paths every day who make the world a better place. Their PASSION, STRENGTH and ABILITY to fight for what they believe in and make a difference in the lives of others is beyond words. This year’s theme will be a night to recognize and honor our heroes. They are the ones that make it possible for each of us to give HOPE for a better tomorrow to the Children and families who face every day challenges and conflict in their lives.
God Bless our Heroes!
This Year’s Theme for our Blue Ribbon Gala/Angel Awareness Event is about Heroes. Every day there are heroes amongst us that are seldom recognized for all they do every day of their lives to give HOPE to children and families who face challenges that none of us cannot imagine. As many of you know who attend our annual event, we not only provide a fun-filled evening with amazing items for our silent and live auction, amazing entertainment, great food, drinks and socializing, but more importantly, it is an evening of bringing awareness to the impact the Angels are having in our community. Our mission is to give HOPE to those children and families who are victims of abuse and neglect or at risk and we want YOU to share this evening with us and help us to make a difference in the lives of those we advocate for 24/7. It takes all of us working together to not only change lives, but save lives. Please mark your calendars to attend our annual event!
2 Shay will be our Entertainment for our Gala again this year!
Mark Wilson, Anchor, Fox 13 Tampa Bay News
Mark will be our MC for our event. He is an Emmy Award winning reporter and anchor with more than 30 years’ experience traveling the world and sharing the stories of the people of Tampa Bay. We are so grateful to have him once again MC our event!
ANGEL BRUNCH BUNCH FASHION SHOW
2024
MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW TO ATTEND OUR 2024 ANGEL FASHION SHOW! IT WILL BE ANOTHER FUN-FILLED EVENT!
DATE: APRIL 27TH 2024,
TIME: 11:00 AM TO 1:00 PM,
PLACE: ST PETERSBURG YACHT CLUB, 11 CENTRAL AVENUE, ST PETE, FL.
LAST YEAR WAS A SELL OUT!
LETS STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR COMMUNITY LEADERS.
ATTENTION COMMUNITY PARTNERS
If you would like to share your link in our monthly newsletters, please forward me the link and any other information about your organization. This will help keep everyone connected and current with our community resources.
Our website is a wonderful resource for our community partners so please take advantage of sharing your information to our readers. Knowledge is POWER and our community has so many resources. Let’s SHARE! You are only a click away!
MEET OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Please follow the links below to read about our Community Partners and all they are doing to make a difference in our community for the children, youth and families we advocate for 24/7.
Our community leaders are changing lives and giving children HOPE for a better tomorrow. It takes all of us to make it happen!
Children are our future…
“The requirements for our recipients are below. If the family meets all the requirements to receive beds from our program, please complete the application (linked below) on behalf of the family. The beds we provide are standard twin size beds complete with a new mattress and bedding and we have bed deliveries every other Saturday morning.
1. The family must live in Pinellas County. It can be anywhere from Tarpon Springs to South St. Petersburg, but we do only deliver to Pinellas County.
2. The beds are for the children, so we cap the age at 18. We will deliver beds to those children in need age 18 or under.
3. We do not want to have a cycle of an ongoing problem, so we ask that issues such as bed bugs, or any other infestation, be treated and taken care of prior to us providing a bed.
4. It is not a “better bed” program. The program is designed to truly provide beds for those children who do not have a bed of their own to sleep in. We feel this is important for children to wake rested in the morning, and be ready for their day and school.
The link to the online application is below. Please keep in mind, the application should be filled out by the case worker only, and NOT sent to the parent to fill out. We rely on you, the direct contact with the family, to know the family, and know the need. Once the application is filled out, one of our volunteers will contact the family directly to schedule a time for delivery of the beds. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Melanie Benner
Missions Coordinator | BridgePoint Church
Jonathan Goodman
Director of Development & Communications
Champions for Children, Inc
[email protected]
3108 W. Azeele St., Tampa FL 33609
Main (813) 673-4646 ext. 1112 | Cell (813) 738-4186
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | Join Our Mailing List
* Learn why we have these here
Would you or someone you know like to know more about Champions programs, or just need some support? Call our Parent Warm Line at 813-673-4646
Our Commitment to Tampa Bay
Our Mission
Champions for Children’s mission is to build stronger families with thriving children throughout Tampa Bay through our child abuse prevention and family education programs
Leah Veal, Ed.S
Executive Director
BLI Learning Labs, Inc.
blilearning.org
Leah Veal <[email protected]>
727.281.6564
Gloria Lawson, thank you for all you do to make a difference in the lives of the children in our community. Your commitment to these children is a blessing, and the lives you have changed never goes unnoticed.
Thank you for your leadership.
Connie Going
Executive Director and Owner
Going Adoption and Surrogacy, LLC
2335 22nd Ave S. Suite 6
St. Petersburg, Fla.33712
727-331-3902
727-501-2646
Licensed Child placing Agency Florida #100268007
At Going Adoption and Surrogacy, our professionals represent more than 70 combined years in adoptions, child welfare, and surrogacy services. We have extensive advocacy experience from local court systems all of the way to Capitol Hill. We are available to consult on an individual basis and encourage you to reach out with any situation you feel we may be able to help you with. We can contract with you if appropriate on your specific situation.
Through an international network of Affiliates, I Support the Girls collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and menstrual hygiene products, allowing women and folks experiencing homelessness, impoverishment, or distress to stand tall with dignity.
I Support the Girls, EIN 81-2163243
Nancy Blount
Affiliate Director
I Support the Girls – Tampa Bay
727-510-2263
Mission Statement: Thrive Family Support is committed to closing the wide gap between a family’s first concerns about their child and when they first access quality support. We work to break down the financial and cultural boundaries that prevent families from accessing care from qualified professionals through our online courses and workshops so that every family can gain the knowledge and skills to help their child thriveJ
Julia Strauss
[email protected]
A BIG THANK YOU from Directions for Living to the Pineapple Project Team for taking this family under their wings and making this house a home! This family’s life has been changed forever!
The Pineapple Projects Mission
Our goal at The Pineapple Projects is to extend a hand to people in our community that are starting over and need help by turning their house into a home. Using gently used donated home furnishings and thoughtful interior design, we transform their empty homes into spaces they can take pride in. We provide essential furnishings for their family. We believe in second chances, kindness, and community.
So … what’s up with the name? We get asked that a lot! A pineapple expresses “welcome” and symbolizes friendship, hospitality, and warmth. We hope to bring these feelings to each project we do!
ASHLEY CORNETET FOUNDER & CEO The Pineapple Projects
Ashley is originally from Louisville, KY. She has been married for over 20 years to Mike. They moved to Florida almost 6 years ago. They have two children Max and Ava and two fur babies that complete their home. Ashley has a background as a realtor and a home stager. She has always had a passion for helping others.
The Pineapple Projects came to be when she saw a post during Covid about a family who had lost their serving jobs and had sold all their home essentials to pay their bills. She knew she could help and reached out to friends and the community for help! Within 10 days their home was transformed. In two years The Pineapple Projects has helped 43 families and just over 200 people!
HISTORY OF THE PINEAPPLE PROJECTS
The Pineapple Projects Mission is to help those in need of home essentials. We transform houses into homes for our Pinellas County neighbors who are starting over and need a helping hand. We spread love and joy by creating beautiful spaces that feel like home – home that provides a restful environment to support each family’s fresh new start. We are designing change! One family at a time.
Happiness is loving what you do and where you live-
THANK YOU TO ALL THE MENTORS AND LEADERS AT FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN TAMPA BAY FOR YOUR 12.5 YEAR COMMITMENT TO THE CHILDREN YOU ADVOCATE FOR ALL YEAR LONG
The Angels have partnered with Friends of the Children Tampa Bay for over seven years and we have had the opportunity to see the difference that these mentors are making in the children’s lives that they mentor for 12.5 years. This program allows a child to know there is a stable person in their life that can change their journey. These mentors are heroes to these children and the Angels want to thank each and every one of them for their support and guidance to these children.
YOUR ARE HEROES
OUR OPPORTUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM IS A HUGE SUCCESS.
The Angels are putting smiles on the faces of children in our community with our partnership with Hero to a Child for the Opportunity Outreach Program. As these requests for the little things that make a difference in a child’s life come in, we fill them immediately with the hope that we are making a difference in this child’s life. This outreach program allows these children an outlet to build friendships, social skills and feel like any other normal child which will change their lives and give them HOPE for a better tomorrow.
Every month the Angels receive an update of how we have impacted children by providing them with activities of their choice. It is very exciting for us to hear that we are a part of helping them grow socially and be like any other children. Anything we can do to help them cope with some of the challenges they face daily puts a smile on our faces. The Angels are so happy to put a smile on these faces and give them HOPE for a better tomorrow. Thank you Erin for sharing your monthly updates and thank you for representing your agency at our monthly meetings.
The Angels partnered with Directions for Living approximately ten years and we have seen first-hand the impact they have had in our community. April Lott serves as the President & CEO of the local nonprofit Directions for Living and has for nearly 15 years. Her impact goes well beyond the work she does in that role. She is an incredible force for good. She is a fierce advocate for children, a relentless giver of altruistic time and talent and energy, and a true leader in the field of social services. The Angels are so proud of the accomplishments that have been made at Campbell Park Elementary School and Kings Highway School with the BabyCat initiative. It is a huge success and on its way to becoming a model for pre-k/elementary schools in the State of Florida. Congratulations April and your DFL Team!
Angels Against Abuse will be partnering with Family Support Services Suncoast to maximize the use of our Angel Center in the coming days. It is our hope that this partnership will help to expedite the reunification process and get children back with their biological parents. We look forward to assisting FSS Suncoast with visitations at our beautiful Angel Center and be a part of watching families become healthy. We would like to welcome our growing staff to assist with the visitations at the Center. Felicia O’Malley and Carol Curtis. Welcome ladies! We are proud to have you a part of our team. Ashley Tominus will be overseeing our new team who everyone is familiar with. She has been the Supervisor of the Angel Center since we opened our doors 4 years ago and does an amazing job!
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO
The Angels have been working with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, CPI Division for over 13 years and we have provided many programs that have made a difference in the lives of the children and youth we advocate for 24/7 addressing the needs requested by this division of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The investigators of the Child Protection Investigation Department work tirelessly to keep children safe while at the same time make their transition in the child welfare system as comfortable as possible. The Baby Mouse Nibbles Baby Bags has helped the Sheriff’s CPI Division with the transition of placing these little ones with their caregivers. Approximately 20-25 per month are being put together with everything an infant would need for almost a month.
CONGRATULATIONS for your 11 years of making a difference of the hunger problem in our community for so many children.
YOU ARE A HERO!
Schenelle Conway| Family and Community Engagement Specialist
Head Start Mission
To educate, equip, and empower children, families and staff through partnerships
and efficient data driven systems to close the achievement gap.
Head Start Vision
Ready for School, Prepared for Life.
Lutheran Services Florida
Helping people build healthier, happier, and hope-filled tomorrows
Angel Monthly Meeting Schedule
2023
May 9th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
June 13th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
July 11th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
August 8th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
September 12th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
October 10th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
November 14th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
Angel Calendar Of Events
2023
August 24th, 2023 – 9:00 AM -2:00 PM
Annual Child Advocacy Expo
Pinellas Realty Organization
4590 Ulmerton Road
Clearwater, FL 33762
November 3rd, 2023 – 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Annual Blue Ribbon Gala
St Petersburg Yacht Club
11 Central Avenue
St Petersburg, FL
December 13th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Christmas Giving Celebration
Pasadena Community Church, GYM
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
2024
April 27th – 11:00am – 2:00pm
Angel Brunch Bunch Fashion Show
St. Pete Yacht Club
11 Central Avenue
St. Petersburg, FL
Please Mark Your Calendars for these
Special Events.
WE NEED YOUR VOTE TO STAY ON TOP.
THANK YOU ANGELS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO WRITE A REVIEW!
THIS IS SO IMPORTANT SO PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES AND LET EVERYONE KNOW HOW WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE.
YOUR WORDS SPEAK VOLUMES IN THE COMMUNITY!
PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!
We are looking for volunteers for all of our upcoming events. Please contact Sandy Kearney by clicking on the above link and let us know which of our upcoming events you are available to help volunteer. Please remember that all of these events benefit the Angels and your support will make a difference. Thank you for your support!
TUESDAY, June 13TH 2023
ANGEL MONTHLY MEETING
Our May Meeting was FANTASTIC, 40 plus attendees and a lot of information shared. Thank you all for taking time from your busy schedules to attend and share with us! Since we have so many great things happening in our community and upcoming events, the Angels decided to not take a summer break, so for all of you that will be around this summer, please join us. Our next meeting is June 13th and our guest speaker will be Jonathan Goodman, the Director of Development and Communications with Champions for Children. We will start the meeting with a song by Rebecca Pearl called “I Am Woman”.
TUESDAY, June 13TH 2023, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
PASADENA COMMUNITY CHURCH, LIFE ENRICHMENT CENTER
227 70TH STREET SOUTH
ST PETERSBURG, FL
The Angels will also be focusing on our upcoming Child Advocacy Expo, August 24th 2023. We will be handing out the “Save the Date” invites and registration forms so you can get this worthwhile event on your calendars. Last year we had over 50 agencies represented and a wait list for a table. Please make sure you email your registration form and request to reserve a table for your organization to [email protected]. We already have several agencies who have signed up, so don’t miss out on this great networking opportunity with your community partners and learn what resources are available in our community. We have a lot of new agencies that we hope will be participating this year that you will want to meet. See the below details for the Child Advocacy Expo!
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU RSVP SO WE CAN MAKE SURE THE ROOM IS SET UP PROPERLY.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!
Thank you To All The MOMS For All YOU Do!
My Special Note To My Mom
I want to say a few things about what my mom means to me! From the very beginning my mom planted a seed in me to be the best I can be no matter what I do in my life. She has been there to root me on for all the great times of my life and support me through the tough times. I have been so blessed to have a mom who has filled my world with so much love. Thank you mom!
I love you so much – Sandy
Don’t forget to tell your mom how special she is to you…
OUR FASHION SHOW WAS A HUGE SUCCESS
What a wonderful event the Angels hosted this past Saturday. It was a sold out event of 212 attendees and everyone had so much fun. Although you can never say 100% perfect, we can say 99% perfect! From the beginning to the end of the program, it was awesome. Everyone had such a good time that they have already asked to be invited in 2024. As soon as we get the date confirmed, we still let everyone know.
There are so many people to thank that made this event the success that it was! See below
TEAM AWESOME
KIM BAUER, HELEN CONSONI, RHONDA SHAW, NICOLE SPINELLI, SUSIE BENNETI
OUR AMAZING MODELS
Susie Bennati
Jane Bonnick
Karen Berggrein
Karen Comings
Trista Dunn
Myha Johnson
Dawn Rush
Jeannine Siewart
Christie Smith
Christie Stross
VOLUNTEERS FOR SETUP, EVENT AND BREAKDOWN
Team Awesome,
Madeline Ales Sr
Madeline Ales
Al Bennati
Karen Berggrein
Tara Birchfield
Mollie Bressette
Rudy Consoni
Joni Hatch
Kim Kearney
John Kearney
Isabella Spinelli
Maddy Spinelli
Ashley Tominus
Robin Wysard
DILLARD’S TYRONE
Special thanks to Dillard’s Tyrone for the beautiful fashions worn by our Models,
an $800 Shopping Spree with a personal shopper and a
Large Beach Basket for the May 7th Drawing
Special Thanks to:
Terry Gregory
Sean McHugh
Lisa Rice
Linda Tribuzio
All of the Dillard’s Tyrone Staff for being so accommodating
DON’T FORGET TO VISIT DILLARD’S BETWEEN NOW AND SATURDAY, MAY 6TH TO DROP OFF YOUR DILLARD’S TICKET THAT WAS GIVEN TO ALL THE ATTENDEES AT THE FASHION SHOW. THE DRAWING IS ON SUNDAY MAY 7TH. REMEMBER YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE PRESENT TO WIN. GOOD LUCK!
THANK YOU DILLARD’S FOR ANOTHER GREAT DONATION TO OUR ORGANIZATION.
2023 ANNUAL CHILD ADVOCACY EXPO
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THIS NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY, THE ANGELS 2023 CHILD ADVOCACY EXPO, AUGUST 24TH 2023. SEE INVITE BELOW. SAME PLACE, SAME TIME AS OUR 2022 EXPO. USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO UTILIZE THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS IN OUR COMMUNITY. IF YOU HAVE AGENCIES THAT DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN 2022, PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!
Dear Community Partners, please take a few minutes to review the list of agencies that attended last year and if there are others to be included, please send me an email [email protected] so we can get them included.
ANNUAL ANGEL AWARENESS EVENT/ BLUE RIBBON GALA 2023
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD 2023
6:00 PM – 11 PM
ST PETERSBURG YACHT CLUB
11 CENTRAL AVENUE
ST PETERSBURG, FL
OUR TEAM IS STILL WORKING ON THE DETAILS, BUT
JUST A LITTLE TID BIT OF WHAT WE ARE PLANNING
HEROES AND MENTORS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
ATTENTION COMMUNITY PARTNERS
If you would like to share your link in our monthly newsletters, please forward me the link and any other information about your organization. This will help keep everyone connected and current with our community resources.
Our website is a wonderful resource for our community partners so please take advantage of sharing your information to our readers. Knowledge is POWER and our community has so many resources. Let’s SHARE! You are only a click away!
MEET OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Please follow the links below to read about our Community Partners and all they are doing to make a difference in our community for the children, youth and families we advocate for 24/7.
Our community leaders are changing lives and giving children HOPE for a better tomorrow. It takes all of us to make it happen!
Children are our future…
Leah Veal, Ed.S
Executive Director
BLI Learning Labs, Inc.
blilearning.org
Leah Veal <[email protected]>
727.281.6564
Gloria Lawson, thank you for all you do to make a difference in the lives of the children in our community. Your commitment to these children is a blessing, and the lives you have changed never goes unnoticed.
Thank you for your leadership.
The Pineapple Projects Mission
Our goal at The Pineapple Projects is to extend a hand to people in our community that are starting over and need help by turning their house into a home. Using gently used donated home furnishings and thoughtful interior design, we transform their empty homes into spaces they can take pride in. We provide essential furnishings for their family. e in second chances, kindness, and community.
So … what’s up with the name? We get asked that a lot! A pineapple expresses “welcome” and symbolizes friendship, hospitality, and warmth. We hope to bring these feelings to each project we do!
ASHLEY CORNETET FOUNDER & CEO The Pineapple Projects
Ashley is originally from Louisville, KY. She has been married for over 20 years to Mike. They moved to Florida almost 6 years ago. They have two children Max and Ava and two fur babies that complete their home. Ashley has a background as a realtor and a home stager. She has always had a passion for helping others.
The Pineapple Projects came to be when she saw a post during Covid about a family who had lost their serving jobs and had sold all their home essentials to pay their bills. She knew she could help and reached out to friends and the community for help! Within 10 days their home was transformed. In two years The Pineapple Projects has helped 43 families and just over 200 people!
HISTORY OF THE PINEAPPLE PROJECTS
The Pineapple Projects Mission is to help those in need of home essentials. We transform houses into homes for our Pinellas County neighbors who are starting over and need a helping hand. We spread love and joy by creating beautiful spaces that feel like home – home that provides a restful environment to support each family’s fresh new start. We are designing change! One family at a time.
Happiness is loving what you do and where you live-
THANK YOU TO ALL THE MENTORS AND LEADERS AT FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN TAMPA BAY FOR YOUR 12.5 YEAR COMMITMENT TO THE CHILDREN YOU ADVOCATE FOR ALL YEAR LONG
THANK YOU TO ALL THE MENTORS AND LEADERS AT FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN TAMPA BAY FOR YOUR 12.5 YEAR COMMITMENT TO THE CHILDREN YOU ADVOCATE FOR ALL YEAR LONG
The Angels have partnered with Friends of the Children Tampa Bay for over seven years and we have had the opportunity to see the difference that these mentors are making in the children’s lives that they mentor for 12.5 years. This program allows a child to know there is a stable person in their life that can change their journey. These mentors are heroes to these children and the Angels want to thank each and every one of them for their support and guidance to these children.
YOUR ARE HEROES
OUR OPPORTUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM IS A HUGE SUCCESS.
The Angels are putting smiles on the faces of children in our community with our partnership with Hero to a Child for the Opportunity Outreach Program. As these requests for the little things that make a difference in a child’s life come in, we fill them immediately with the hope that we are making a difference in this child’s life. This outreach program allows these children an outlet to build friendships, social skills and feel like any other normal child which will change their lives and give them HOPE for a better tomorrow.
Every month the Angels receive an update of how we have impacted children by providing them with activities of their choice. It is very exciting for us to hear that we are a part of helping them grow socially and be like any other children. Anything we can do to help them cope with some of the challenges they face daily puts a smile on our faces. The Angels are so happy to put a smile on these faces and give them HOPE for a better tomorrow. Thank you Erin for sharing your monthly updates and thank you for representing your agency at our monthly meetings.
The Angels partnered with Directions for Living approximately ten years and we have seen first-hand the impact they have had in our community. April Lott serves as the President & CEO of the local nonprofit Directions for Living and has for nearly 15 years. Her impact goes well beyond the work she does in that role. She is an incredible force for good. She is a fierce advocate for children, a relentless giver of altruistic time and talent and energy, and a true leader in the field of social services. The Angels are so proud of the accomplishments that have been made at Campbell Park Elementary School and Kings Highway School with the BabyCat initiative. It is a huge success and on its way to becoming a model for pre-k/elementary schools in the State of Florida. Congratulations April and your DFL Team!
Angels Against Abuse will be partnering with Family Support Services Suncoast to maximize the use of our Angel Center in the coming days. It is our hope that this partnership will help to expedite the reunification process and get children back with their biological parents. We look forward to assisting FSS Suncoast with visitations at our beautiful Angel Center and be a part of watching families become healthy. We would like to welcome our growing staff to assist with the visitations at the Center. Felicia O’Malley and Carol Curtis. Welcome ladies! We are proud to have you a part of our team. Ashley Tominus will be overseeing our new team who everyone is familiar with. She has been the Supervisor of the Angel Center since we opened our doors 4 years ago and does an amazing job!
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO
The Angels have been working with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, CPI Division for over 13 years and we have provided many programs that have made a difference in the lives of the children and youth we advocate for 24/7 addressing the needs requested by this division of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The investigators of the Child Protection Investigation Department work tirelessly to keep children safe while at the same time make their transition in the child welfare system as comfortable as possible. The Baby Mouse Nibbles Baby Bags has helped the Sheriff’s CPI Division with the transition of placing these little ones with their caregivers. Approximately 20-25 per month are being put together with everything an infant would need for almost a month.
CONGRATULATIONS for your 11 years of making a difference of the hunger problem in our community for so many children.
YOU ARE A HERO!
Schenelle Conway| Family and Community Engagement Specialist
Head Start Mission
To educate, equip, and empower children, families and staff through partnerships
and efficient data driven systems to close the achievement gap.
Head Start Vision
Ready for School, Prepared for Life.
Lutheran Services Florida
Helping people build healthier, happier, and hope-filled tomorrows
Angel Monthly Meeting Schedule
2023
June 13th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
July 11th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
August 8th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
September 12th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
October 10th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
November 14th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
Angel Calendar Of Events
2023
August 24th, 2023 – 9:00 AM -2:00 PM
Annual Child Advocacy Expo
Pinellas Realty Organization
4590 Ulmerton Road
Clearwater, FL 33762
November 3rd, 2023 – 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Annual Blue Ribbon Gala
St Petersburg Yacht Club
11 Central Avenue
St Petersburg, FL
December 13th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Christmas Giving Celebration
Pasadena Community Church, GYM
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
2024
April 27th – 11:00am – 2:00pm
Angel Brunch Bunch Fashion Show
St. Pete Yacht Club
11 Central Avenue
St. Petersburg, FL
Please Mark Your Calendars for these
Special Events.
Angels Against Abuse Gives HOPE,
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow….
WE NEED YOUR VOTE TO STAY ON TOP.
THANK YOU ANGELS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO WRITE A REVIEW!
THIS IS SO IMPORTANT SO PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES AND LET EVERYONE KNOW HOW WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE.
YOUR WORDS SPEAK VOLUMES IN THE COMMUNITY!
PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!
We are looking for volunteers for all of our upcoming events. Please contact Sandy Kearney by clicking on the above link and let us know which of our upcoming events you are available to help volunteer. Please remember that all of these events benefit the Angels and your support will make a difference. Thank you for your support!
TUESDAY, APRIL 11TH 2023
ANGEL MONTHLY MEETING
OUR MARCH MEETING WAS ANOTHER FANTASTIC MEETING. THE SEATS WERE FILLED IN OUR MEETING ROOM AND OUR SPEAKERS WERE WONDERFUL! WE HEARD FRON MINDY AND KELLEY FROM THE PINEAPPLE PROJECT, WHO SHARED THEIR MISSION AND WILL BE ANOTHER GREAT RESOURCE IN OUR COMMUNITY. WE ALSO HEARD FROM KAYLA OF THE CHILDREN’S HOME NETWORK WHO EXPLAINED THE MISSION OF THE CHILDREN’S HOME NETWORK. WE HAVE TWO NEW RESOURCES THAT WILL NOW BE ATTENDING OUR MEETINGS AND SHARING THEIR GOALS AND PASSION FOR WHAT THEY DO. THE ANGELS ARE MAKING CONNECTIONS WHICH IS MAKING OUR COMMUNITY STRONGER IN PROVIDING NEEDED RESOURCES FOR THE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES WE ADVOCATE FOR. SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS FOR TAKING TIME FROM THEIR BUSY SCHEDULES TO ATTEND OUR MEETINGS AND KEEPING US INFORMED OF WHAT IS GOING ON IN THE COMMUNITY. THERE IS NOTHING MORE EFFECTIVE THAN TEAMWORK TO BUILD ON OUR RESOURCES TO HELP OUR CHILDREN.
TUESDAY, APRIL 11TH 2023, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
PASADENA COMMUNITY CHURCH, LIFE ENRICHMENT CENTER
227 70TH STREET SOUTH
ST PETERSBURG, FL
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU RSVP SO WE CAN MAKE SURE THE ROOM IS SET UP PROPERLY.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!
BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW! BRING SOME FRIENDS!
There will be a lot of excitement in 2023 at our Angel Events,
You won’t want to miss out,
Please mark your calendar for all of our special events.
See Below
ANGEL BRUNCH BUNCH FASHION SHOW PRESENTED BY DILLARD’S TYRONE
11 AM TO 2 PM
ST PETE YACHT CLUB GRAND BALLROOM
11 CENTRAL AVENUE, ST PETERSBURG, FL
AND LADIES -IT WAS SUCH A HIT LAST YEAR THAT ONCE AGAIN
THE ANGELS WILL PROVIDE UNLIMITED MIMOSAS!!!
2023 ANNUAL CHILD ADVOCACY EXPO
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THIS NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY, THE ANGELS 2023 CHILD ADVOCACY EXPO, AUGUST 24TH 2023. SEE INVITE BELOW. SAME PLACE, SAME TIME AS OUR 2022 EXPO. USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO UTILIZE THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS IN OUR COMMUNITY. IF YOU HAVE AGENCIES THAT DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN 2022, PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!
ANNUAL ANGEL AWARENESS EVENT/ BLUE RIBBON GALA 2023
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD 2023
6:00 PM – 11 PM
ST PETERSBURG YACHT CLUB
11 CENTRAL AVENUE
ST PETERSBURG, FL
OUR TEAM IS STILL WORKING ON THE DETAILS, BUT
JUST A LITTLE TID BIT OF WHAT WE ARE PLANNING
HEROES AND MENTORS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
LETS STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR COMMUNITY LEADERS.
ATTENTION READERS – MAKE SURE YOU CLICK ON THE COMMUNITY PARTNER LINKS TO LEARN ABOUT WHAT OUR PARTNERS ARE DOING IN THE COMMUNITY. THE ANGELS WORK CLOSELY WITH EACH OF THEM TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF THE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES WE ASSIST THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
IF THERE IS ANY EXCITING NEWS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE PLEASE EMAIL ME THE LAST WEEK OF THE MONTH AND I WILL MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE IT IN OUR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER. IF YOU HAVE A NEWSLETTER THAT IS NOT INCLUDED ON YOUR WEBSITE, PLEASE FORWARD IT TO ME AND IT WILL BE ATTACHED TO YOUR LINK.
WE WANT OUR READERS TO STAY CONNECTED…
ATTENTION COMMUNITY PARTNERS
If you would like to share your link for your monthly newsletters, please forward me the link. This will help keep everyone connected.
MEET OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Please follow the links below to read about our Community Partners and all they are doing to make a difference in our community for the children, youth and families we advocate for 24/7.
Our community leaders are changing lives and giving children HOPE for a better tomorrow. It takes all of us to make it happen!
Children are our future…
Gloria Lawson, thank you for all you do to make a difference in the lives of the children in our community. Your commitment to these children is a blessing, and the lives you have changed never goes unnoticed.
Thank you for your leadership.
Leah Veal, Ed.S
Executive Director
BLI Learning Labs, Inc.
blilearning.org
Leah Veal <[email protected]>
727.281.6564
The Pineapple Projects Mission
Our goal at The Pineapple Projects is to extend a hand to people in our community that are starting over and need help by turning their house into a home. Using gently used donated home furnishings and thoughtful interior design, we transform their empty homes into spaces they can take pride in. We provide essential furnishings for their family. e in second chances, kindness, and community.
So … what’s up with the name? We get asked that a lot! A pineapple expresses “welcome” and symbolizes friendship, hospitality, and warmth. We hope to bring these feelings to each project we do!
ASHLEY CORNETET FOUNDER & CEO The Pineapple Projects
Ashley is originally from Louisville, KY. She has been married for over 20 years to Mike. They moved to Florida almost 6 years ago. They have two children Max and Ava and two fur babies that complete their home. Ashley has a background as a realtor and a home stager. She has always had a passion for helping others.
The Pineapple Projects came to be when she saw a post during Covid about a family who had lost their serving jobs and had sold all their home essentials to pay their bills. She knew she could help and reached out to friends and the community for help! Within 10 days their home was transformed. In two years The Pineapple Projects has helped 43 families and just over 200 people!
HISTORY OF THE PINEAPPLE PROJECTS
The Pineapple Projects Mission is to help those in need of home essentials. We transform houses into homes for our Pinellas County neighbors who are starting over and need a helping hand. We spread love and joy by creating beautiful spaces that feel like home – home that provides a restful environment to support each family’s fresh new start. We are designing change! One family at a time.
Happiness is loving what you do and where you live-
THANK YOU TO ALL THE MENTORS AND LEADERS AT FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN TAMPA BAY FOR YOUR 12.5 YEAR COMMITMENT TO THE CHILDREN YOU ADVOCATE FOR ALL YEAR LONG
THANK YOU TO ALL THE MENTORS AND LEADERS AT FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN TAMPA BAY FOR YOUR 12.5 YEAR COMMITMENT TO THE CHILDREN YOU ADVOCATE FOR ALL YEAR LONG
The Angels have partnered with Friends of the Children Tampa Bay for over seven years and we have had the opportunity to see the difference that these mentors are making in the children’s lives that they mentor for 12.5 years. This program allows a child to know there is a stable person in their life that can change their journey. These mentors are heroes to these children and the Angels want to thank each and every one of them for their support and guidance to these children.
YOUR ARE HEROES
OUR OPPORTUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM IS A HUGE SUCCESS.
The Angels are putting smiles on the faces of children in our community with our partnership with Hero to a Child for the Opportunity Outreach Program. As these requests for the little things that make a difference in a child’s life come in, we fill them immediately with the hope that we are making a difference in this child’s life. This outreach program allows these children an outlet to build friendships, social skills and feel like any other normal child which will change their lives and give them HOPE for a better tomorrow.
Every month the Angels receive an update of how we have impacted children by providing them with activities of their choice. It is very exciting for us to hear that we are a part of helping them grow socially and be like any other children. Anything we can do to help them cope with some of the challenges they face daily puts a smile on our faces. The Angels are so happy to put a smile on these faces and give them HOPE for a better tomorrow. Thank you Erin for sharing your monthly updates and thank you for representing your agency at our monthly meetings.
The Angels partnered with Directions for Living approximately ten years and we have seen first-hand the impact they have had in our community. April Lott serves as the President & CEO of the local nonprofit Directions for Living and has for nearly 15 years. Her impact goes well beyond the work she does in that role. She is an incredible force for good. She is a fierce advocate for children, a relentless giver of altruistic time and talent and energy, and a true leader in the field of social services. The Angels are so proud of the accomplishments that have been made at Campbell Park Elementary School and Kings Highway School with the BabyCat initiative. It is a huge success and on its way to becoming a model for pre-k/elementary schools in the State of Florida. Congratulations April and your DFL Team!
Angels Against Abuse will be partnering with Family Support Services Suncoast to maximize the use of our Angel Center in the coming days. It is our hope that this partnership will help to expedite the reunification process and get children back with their biological parents. We look forward to assisting FSS Suncoast with visitations at our beautiful Angel Center and be a part of watching families become healthy. We would like to welcome our growing staff to assist with the visitations at the Center. Felicia O’Malley and Carol Curtis. Welcome ladies! We are proud to have you a part of our team. Ashley Tominus will be overseeing our new team who everyone is familiar with. She has been the Supervisor of the Angel Center since we opened our doors 4 years ago and does an amazing job!
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO
The Angels have been working with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, CPI Division for over 13 years and we have provided many programs that have made a difference in the lives of the children and youth we advocate for 24/7 addressing the needs requested by this division of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The investigators of the Child Protection Investigation Department work tirelessly to keep children safe while at the same time make their transition in the child welfare system as comfortable as possible. The Baby Mouse Nibbles Baby Bags has helped the Sheriff’s CPI Division with the transition of placing these little ones with their caregivers. Approximately 20-25 per month are being put together with everything an infant would need for almost a month.
CONGRATULATIONS for your 11 years of making a difference of the hunger problem in our community for so many children.
YOU ARE A HERO!
Schenelle Conway| Family and Community Engagement Specialist
Head Start Mission
To educate, equip, and empower children, families and staff through partnerships
and efficient data driven systems to close the achievement gap.
Head Start Vision
Ready for School, Prepared for Life.
Lutheran Services Florida
Helping people build healthier, happier, and hope-filled tomorrows
Angel Monthly Meeting Schedule
2023
September 12th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
October 10th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
November 14th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Monthly Meeting
Pasadena Community Church
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
Angel Calendar Of Events
2023
November 3rd, 2023 – 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Annual Blue Ribbon Gala
St Petersburg Yacht Club
11 Central Avenue
St Petersburg, FL
December 13th – 8:30 AM -10:00 AM
Angel Christmas Giving Celebration
Pasadena Community Church, GYM
221 70th Street South
St Petersburg, FL
2024
April 27th – 11:00 – 2:00 PM
Angel Brunch Bunch Fashion Show
St Pete Yacht Club
11 Central Avenue
St Petersburg, FL
Please Mark Your Calendars for these
Special Events.
WE NEED YOUR VOTE TO STAY ON TOP.
THANK YOU ANGELS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO WRITE A REVIEW!
THIS IS SO IMPORTANT SO PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES AND LET EVERYONE KNOW HOW WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE.
YOUR WORDS SPEAK VOLUMES IN THE COMMUNITY!
PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!
We are looking for volunteers for all of our upcoming events. Please contact Sandy Kearney by clicking on the above link and let us know which of our upcoming events you are available to help volunteer. Please remember that all of these events benefit the Angels and your support will make a difference. Thank you for your support!
