a message from your publisher… Reg Buxton

November is the month people most often associate with “giving back” and reflecting on the blessings we are grateful for both large and small. This November as I reflect on what I am grateful for, what comes to mind is how special our city and community is.

Naples is a city steeped in philanthropy in all forms and “giving back” is almost a way of life for our citizens year-round, not just tied to any one month. According to philanthropy.org, Naples hosts over 2,000 non-profits holding over $9 billion in total assets. With that many non-profits, there’s a cause for everyone to hold near to their hearts doing tangible good in Southwest Florida and beyond. The generosity of our residents, whether they are here part-time or year-round, has allowed this culture of philanthropy to flourish and the fortunate reach out their hands to the most vulnerable in our community to help them thrive.

Philanthropy also anchors the city’s social calendar- from glittering galas to charity auctions and walks to golf tournaments “season” in Naples comes packed with an array of events for all tastes focused on the same thing: giving back. Whether you attend the Farm-City Barbeque or the Naples Winter Wine Festival, Zoobilee or the Hope Shines Walk- Naples is a city filled with compassion and altruism with wide-reaching impacts.

Providing grants, medical care, housing, and beyond- these events aren’t just glitz and glamor, the organizations behind them affect real change in our community that wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of those who call Naples home, and I’m grateful to be one of the many who do.