In the aftermath of devastating hurricanes like Helene and Milton which affected the Tampa Bay community and beyond, the road to recovery is long and challenging. However, through the power of community and the spirit of giving, real change can happen. Your support of the Ryan Nece Foundation allows us to contribute directly to cleanup efforts in affected areas, but more importantly, it provides necessary funding to equip the next generation of leaders through our Student Service Program and Student Service Clubs.
Supporting Student Leaders
The Ryan Nece Foundation focuses on empowering high school students with essential leadership skills and fostering a strong sense of volunteerism. By participating in hands-on projects, teens gain the tools to make meaningful contributions in their local communities and beyond. Following the destruction of hurricanes Helene and Milton, many of these student leaders have already taken action to organize and participate in cleanup efforts, offering relief to families and businesses impacted by the storms and their efforts will continue.
Financial contributions directly support these student-driven initiatives. From clearing debris to rebuilding homes, these teens are on the front lines, gaining real-world experience while making a positive impact on communities in need.
How You Can Support
There are several ways you can join us in supporting the Ryan Nece Foundation and its ongoing efforts to cultivate future leaders and provide relief after disasters:
- Support our Power of ThanksGiving Celebrations: Give hope this holiday season! Embrace the #powerofgiving and join us in supporting underserved communities in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties – especially those impacted by the hurricanes. This year’s Power of ThanksGiving Celebrations will provide seated hot meals with entertainment, take-home books and craft kits for kids, pet food (thanks to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay) and one week’s worth of pantry and fresh food items.
- Buy Tickets to Our Annual Holiday Party: This festive event is a great opportunity to give back while celebrating with friends and family. All proceeds go directly toward funding our student programming and hurricane-relief initiatives. The event will take place December 12, 2024 at the Orlo in Tampa. Head to the “Our Events” tab on the home page of our website to purchase tickets!
- Make a Direct Donation: Whether it’s a one-time contribution or a recurring monthly gift, every donation helps support student volunteers as they step up to lead in their communities.
- Become a Friend of the Foundation: For a one-time lump sum donation of $5,000, you can become a Friend of the Foundation which gives you full access to our events throughout the year. This includes sponsorship of and 8 tickets to our annual luncheon event, Power of ThanksGiving sponsorship, 8 tickets to our Annual Holiday Party, sponsorship of our 2025 Youth Service Leadership Summit program event and verbal and written recognition s of your support throughout the year during all events.
- Sponsor an Event: Throughout the year, we host various events aimed at raising funds and awareness for the Ryan Nece Foundation such as our annual luncheon and holiday party. Sponsoring an event or two not only provides critical funding but also highlights your commitment to leadership and community service.
- Trust in Air Mavericks for your heating and cooling needs. Air Mavericks, one of Greater Tampa Bay’s best air conditioning and heating installation companies, wants to do good with every unit install, donating $300 to the Ryan Nece Foundation. They are also working closely with those who were impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Together, we can empower the next generation of leaders while making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by disasters like Hurricane Helene and Milton. Plus, your contribution is tax-deductible, making it even easier to support these vital efforts. By supporting the Ryan Nece Foundation, you’re not just funding relief efforts—you’re investing in a brighter, more resilient future for us all.
