This #GivingTuesday, a global day of generosity, the Hernando de Soto Historical Society invites you to be a part of a movement that has grown into a worldwide celebration of giving. For over nine years, GivingTuesday has inspired people across the globe to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Whether you’re an individual, a family, a small business, or part of a nonprofit, everyone can make a difference.
On this special day of giving, your support will empower the Hernando de Soto Historical Society to continue its vital work in preserving local history, supporting education, and contributing to the well-being of our community.
Our Mission: Preserving History & Supporting Community
The Hernando de Soto Historical Society brings together passionate volunteers who represent a diverse cross-section of our community. Through the dedication of over 20 committees, the society plays a key role in organizing events and activities that benefit Manatee County and beyond. Our fundraising efforts reinvest more than $50,000 annually back into the community, and our events generate an estimated $3 million in economic stimulus for the area.
Each year, we work tirelessly to promote Florida’s Spanish heritage and foster a sense of community pride. From educational initiatives to exciting cultural programs, we are committed to creating lasting, positive impacts.
What We Do: Making a Difference
The Hernando de Soto Historical Society’s impact reaches far beyond preserving history. Here are just a few of the ways your donation will make a meaningful difference:
- Scholarships for Manatee County Students: Every year, we provide financial support to local students to help them pursue higher education.
- Supporting Local Charities: Your contributions help fund a wide variety of community initiatives, including organizations like Adopt-A-Family, American Cancer Society, Boys & Girls Club, Feeding Empty Little Tummies, and many others.
- Cultural Exchange Programs: We facilitate a student exchange program with our sister city, Barcarrota, Spain, fostering international connections and cultural understanding.
- Largest Entertainment Events in Manatee County: We produce beloved community events such as the Queen Selection Program, the De Soto Ball, and the Grand Parade. These events bring people together and serve as cultural touchstones for the community.
- Education on Florida’s Spanish Heritage: Through programs like the Crewe visits to schools and retirement homes, we provide valuable educational resources on Florida’s rich Spanish heritage.
Our Impact: Giving Back to the Community
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the Hernando de Soto Historical Society has been able to contribute to numerous organizations that serve our community. Some of our key beneficiaries include:
- Adopt-A-Family
- American Cancer Society
- Beds for Kids
- Big Brothers and Big Sisters
- Boys and Girls Club
- Special Olympics of Florida
- PACE Center for Girls
- Kiwanis Kids Against Hunger
- Lighthouse for the Blind
- Wreaths Across America
- Manatee ARC
- Miracle League of Manasota
These organizations play vital roles in improving lives and fostering a strong sense of community. Your donation helps us continue to support these initiatives, ensuring a positive future for all.
Join Us This GivingTuesday
This GivingTuesday, we invite you to join us in our mission to preserve history, support students, and help local charities thrive. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. Your generosity allows us to continue producing major events, providing scholarships, supporting cultural exchanges, and giving back to the community.
As Lisa Moscarello so eloquently put it, “A wonderful group of people that do so much for the community!” We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received and are excited for the opportunity to make an even greater impact with your help this year.
So, this #GivingTuesday, make a lasting difference. Join us in preserving history and enriching the lives of those in need by donating to the
Hernando de Soto Historical Society. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected community.
Donate Today and Make History with Us!
