Turning Points Announces the 27th Annual Manatee County Stand Down Event
Free Community Gatherings Honoring Veterans and Connecting Residents to Critical Services
Palmetto, FL — Turning Points and its community partners are proud to host the 27th Annual Manatee County Stand Down on Saturday, November 1, 2025. This event will take place from 8:00 AM to Noon at the Manatee County Fairgrounds (1303 17th Street West, Palmetto).
Manatee County Stand Down is focused not only on providing services but also on uplifting our community and fostering connections. Many of our neighbors are facing struggles and don’t know where to find assistance to maintain stable housing, support their families, or secure meaningful employment.
At Stand Down, community members can access essential resources to help them build stability and hope. With the support of over 50 local organizations and hundreds of dedicated volunteers, this event brings together life-changing services in one place for a single, impactful day.
Available services include:
Medical, Dental & Vision Screenings
Mental Health Support
Haircuts, Showers & Hygiene Products
Career Fair & Veterans Services
Amnesty Court (12th Judicial Circuit Court) – has dismissed over $90,000 in fines and fees in recent years for local veterans
Driver’s License & ID Assistance
Kids’ Activities, Raffles & Live Entertainment
Lunch Provided
Photo from the 2024 Manatee County Stand Down
The Veterans Amnesty Court is open to veterans from Manatee and Sarasota Counties and can assist with unpaid court fees, traffic fines, and driver’s license reinstatement. Veterans are asked to bring their VA card or DD-214 along with a driver’s license.
At this year’s Stand Down event, you can expect to see various community partners, including Tunnel to Towers, MCR Health, Manasota Elks #2734, Lakewood Ranch/Sarasota Elks #2855, Manatee County Government, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Palmetto Station, Christian Care Alliance, Tropicana, Mayors Feed the Hungry, Aetna, and others.
Over the years, Stand Down has grown into a powerful tradition of service and solidarity, drawing more than 500 attendees and volunteers annually.
“The Manatee County Stand Down event is more than just an event — it’s about bringing our community together to honor and support veterans while ensuring that all residents know help is within reach,” said Kathleen Cramer, Executive Director of Turning Points.
Free shuttle service will be available from the Downtown Bradenton Transit Station (1301 6th Ave W, Bradenton) to the Fairgrounds.
About Turning Points: Last year, over 9,000 individuals benefited from programs at Turning Points, including Community Resource Navigation, which helps individuals and families navigate crises and access essential resources; Rental and Utility Assistance, a vital tool in preventing housing instability; Free Medical and Dental Care, which supports uninsured Manatee County residents in maintaining their health; Day Resource Services, offering hot showers, laundry, clothing, and other essential basic needs; and Veterans’ Services, providing comprehensive housing solutions and wraparound support for those who served our nation. Visit tpmanatee.org to learn more.
