Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa Hosts the Manatee Community Foundation's 2025 Spirit of Manatee Awards, Honoring Community Philanthropy
Palmetto, FL—The Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa proudly hosted this year’s Spirit of Manatee—The Celebration of Philanthropy on March 13, 2025. This inspiring event, presented by the Manatee Community Foundation, recognized outstanding individuals, families, and organizations that have made a lasting impact through their generosity and commitment to the community.
The event took on even greater significance this year, following Manatee County's hardships due to multiple disasters. In these challenging times, the unwavering spirit of giving and collaboration shone brightly as community members stepped up to rebuild and support one another. In an emotional moment, the presenting sponsor, Morgan Stanley’s John Vita, shared about his hardships after the hurricanes and the people who reached out to help his family. The Spirit of Manatee Awards celebrated these unsung heroes whose philanthropic efforts have been instrumental in strengthening the region.
A highlight of the event was an empowering keynote address by international best-selling author, musician, and coach Keith Macpherson, who emphasized the importance of being in the moment and how to integrate mindfulness into daily life. His “unconventional” keynote address had the entire room concentrating on the moment with their eyes closed, focusing on their breath as he sang a song he used to listen to from his father’s vinyl collection.
Adding to the event’s prestige, Congressman Vern Buchanan was in attendance as a distinguished guest. He shared his perspective on the crucial role of philanthropy in fostering a thriving and resilient community. He then joined Sherod Halliburton of Credit Union 1 to award the day's honorees.
Held at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, the sold-out event welcomed 510 community leaders, philanthropists, and local changemakers. Attendees gathered to celebrate the honorees and inspire one another to continue the tradition of giving and collaboration that defines Manatee County.
Scott Sellvaggi, Director of Sales and Marketing at Palmetto Marriott, expressed his pride in hosting the event, stating, "We are proud to support the Manatee Community Foundation and host the 19th annual lunch celebrating philanthropy in Manatee County. The leaders who filled the room bring us pride to be a tiny piece of the puzzle that makes us all 'Manatee Strong.'"
As the event concluded, the message was clear: philanthropy is the heart of our community, and together, we have the power to make an enduring impact.
Spirit of Manatee 2025 Honorees
Kenneth T. Davis, PhD – BIED Society | Melinda Zarzycki-Harris – Bring on the Ministry | Chris Culhane – The Center of Anna Maria Island | Henry Detwiler Sr. – Detwiler’s Farm Market | Darcie Duncan– Duncan Real Estate | Justin Halas – Hand Up To Victory | Stephanie Rauda – Healthy Teens | Jennifer Hamey – Jennifer Hamey, PA | Michael Garey – Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key | Tarnisha Cliatt – Manasota Black Chamber Collaborative | Sarah Brown – Manatee County Government | Mary Glass – Manatee Education Foundation | Vernon DeSear – Manatee Memorial Foundation | Janene Amick – Manatee Performing Arts Center | Maribeth Phillips – Meals on Wheels PLUS | Jackie Barron – Mosaic Florida Operations | Bruce Kurtz – Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium | Bethany Willats Carter – O’bricks Irish Pub and Martini Bar | Mike Carter – O'bricks Irish Pub and Martini Bar | Rick Willats – O’bricks Irish Pub and Martini Bar | Amanda Reedy – Oysters Rock Hospitality | Eleni Sokos – Oysters Rock Hospitality | Louis Goff – The Rubonia Community Center | Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School Community (Accepted by Peter Kraft) – Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School | Keenan Wooten – Sarasota Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. | Karen Bell – Star Fish Company | Josh Dunn – United Way Suncoast | David Kraft – Vision Consulting Group
