The Casa Collections Thrift Store operates to raise funds to support the Center Against Spouse Abuse, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides shelter, counseling and support to women and children who are victims of domestic abuse. The store accepts used clothing, furniture and household goods, and all proceeds go to fund the CASA programs. You can find great bargains here, and the merchandise turns over quickly as a result. Seniors get an additional 25 percent off most items on Wednesdays. The store serves as a drop-off location for donated items as well as a retail location. You can also arrange to have furniture picked up by contacting the store manager. Cell phones are accepted and given to program participants so they can call 911 in case of emergency.
SPIFFS, for short, is the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society -- an organization that is most well known for its annual Folk Fair, a festival showcasing foods, goods, music and customs from a wide range of cultures from around the world. In addition to its popular fair, SPIFFS also offers translation and education services, including ethnic representatives traveling to area schools to share elements of their culture with students. Many of the member groups that comprise the SPIFFS organization also have folk dance groups that are available for public performances. Meetings are held in the SPIFFS office, located at the St. Pete Sunshine Center.
Industrial Arts Center is an art cooperative and non-profit organization in Gulfport. The state-of-the-art facility provides instruction in various mediums and industrial arts to encourage an artistically aware community. To learn more about classes, instructors, or how to support the Industrial Arts Center, visit the provided Web site.
The Suncoasters are the energy and organization behind the Festival of States, a celebration of all things St. Petersburg. Money raised goes toward college scholarships and supporting the arts in Pinellas County schools.
The Suncoasters is composed of business people in the city who partner with the city to produce the following fund-raising activities: Country Music Fest, Scholastic Arts Competition, Clown Alley, Junior Sungoddess Court Social and Fashion Show, Kids & Kubs Softball,Coronation Ball, Illuminated Night Parade and the Festival 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run.
The ongoing Festival of States is unrelated to government but is an effort to make St. Pete appealing to winter tourists beyond their seasonal stays. Many of the events get underway in the spring. The Suncoasters' website has a complete listing of schedules and dates for individual events.
Egret Cove Center is a nonprofit health care service provider with more than 40 years experience in Pinellas County. Egret Cove offers rehabilitative services, skilled nursing, short and long-term care with physical, occupational and speech therapists; registered and licensed practical nurses; and certified nursing assistants.
The 4th Street chapter of the Red Cross supports the international organization's mission of providing assistance and relief after disasters.
This branch offers classes in CPR for aiding adults, children and infants; first aid for pets; babysitting; workplace safety; aquatics safety; and wilderness rescue and first aid.
The public can sign up and pay online with a credit card or come in to register in person. The Red Cross is always looking for volunteers to aid in disaster relief efforts and classroom training.
This sprawling brick Masonic Home is nestled next to Coffee Pot Bayou and a city park where kayakers launch their craft. Shaded by large oak trees, the Masonic Home provides residential care and support for aging members, their wives and widows. The Home is conveniently located next door to Northside Lodge, allowing senior members to attend weekly meetings. The Masonic Home of Florida is on 18 acres and owned by the Grand Lodge of Florida. It has been serving Master Masons since 1902.
Centrally located downtown, the Chamber represents and promotes the city and its businesses. The Chamber has several efforts to support members and to promote the city, including "Sunsational St. Pete." It is the largest chamber in the Tampa Bay region, with 2,400 members, who are individuals, companies and organizations. Chamber members work diligently to encourage job growth and business development locally and across the region. The group's Visitors' Guide has won industry honors. The Chamber also touts its Web site, which has been recognized for its ease of use and resources.
Boot Humanity is a non-profit organization that provides a range of tech support services to residential and business customers in the Tampa Bay area. These services can include hardware and software troubleshooting, IT support, website maintenance, networking, databases, help desk services and much more. Prospective customers can request a free diagnosis and estimate by contacting Boot humanity over the phone; public school teachers always receive free repair services.
Owned and operated by the Presbyterian Homes and Housing Foundation, this high rise complex located within walking distance of Tropicana Field offers the best of Florida living for fiscally-challenged seniors. Residents can choose from studio or one-bedroom units, many of which are designed to accommodate wheelchairs. Rents are based upon income, and units are restricted to those of a certain income level. For those who qualify, they can enjoy free Wi-Fi, comfortable common areas, a library, game lounge and other amenities for rental rates that cannot be matched elsewhere. Views are exceptional and the convenience of being within blocks of downtown St. Petersburg makes this a great place to live.