Fort Myers Receives $85 Million in Philanthropic Grants
Fort Myers, Florida – Tom Golisano, founder of Paychex and notable philanthropist, has announced a significant donation of $85 million to 41 organizations in Southwest Florida. This funding aims to support various sectors, including health care, education, disability services, and animal welfare. The donations, which range from $150,000 to $10 million, particularly benefit nonprofits serving the Sarasota and Manatee counties.
A Commitment to Giving Back
“One of my favorite sayings is ‘the only wealth you keep is that which you give away,’” Golisano remarked, emphasizing his commitment to philanthropy. He has decided to act on this belief, especially as he reflects on the success of his business, Paychex. “Thanks to the success of Paychex and its employees, I can make it my reality. I’m glad to provide support to nonprofits across Southwest Florida, where I now call home,” he added.
Substantial Support for Local Nonprofits
This year’s funding marks a substantial increase in Golisano’s financial contributions. His philanthropic outreach has reached half a billion dollars during his lifetime, totaling around $860 million in donations. The latest grant increases the Golisano Foundation’s annual giving from approximately $3 million to over $5 million. This expansion will significantly enhance opportunities for local nonprofits to receive grants.
Supporting Diverse Causes
Among the organizations benefiting from Golisano’s generosity, Easterseals Southwest Florida and Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida each received $5 million. Other noteworthy allocations include $1 million to both Special Olympics Florida and The Haven, and $3 million to the American Red Cross Southwest Florida. Additionally, the Gulf Coast Humane Society received $1.5 million, while smaller amounts were granted to several animal rescue organizations, including Anna Maria Island Pup Rescue, which received $150,000.
Encouraging Community Engagement
Erica Dayton, executive director of the Golisano Foundation, expressed excitement over the new influx of agencies that will likely emerge due to Golisano’s recent donations. “We look forward to the new influx of agencies we’ll be introduced to through the widespread news of Tom’s most recent giving,” she stated. “Understanding the needs of the communities we support and the organizations that devote their expertise to serving them is a constantly evolving process.”
Resources for Nonprofits
The Golisano Foundation encourages nonprofit organizations to explore their website for more information on Tom Golisano’s philanthropy and the foundation’s mission. Organizations are urged to utilize the resources provided by the foundation to better understand the available grant opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Golisano is known for his philanthropic efforts, which also include the establishment of three children’s hospitals that bear his name. In addition to his charitable work, he authored two books: “Built Not Born,” a Wall Street Journal bestseller, and “The Italian Kid Did It.” His impact in Southwest Florida continues to resonate, highlighting his commitment to improving lives through financial support and community engagement.
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
