• 18th Annual Becoming Cosmopolitan: ‘Mad About Hunger’ fundraising event raises $155,000 for Community Cooperative

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    18th Annual Becoming Cosmopolitan: ‘Mad About Hunger’ fundraising event raises $155,000 for Community Cooperative

    FORT MYERS, Fla. (Nov. 18, 2024) – On Nov. 7, nearly 250 Southwest Floridians joined forces to fight hunger, raising $155,000 at Community Cooperative’s 18th Annual Becoming Cosmopolitan: Mad About Hunger event at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers. This Mad Hatter-themed evening brought the community together for an unforgettable tea party filled with treats, cocktails, an imaginative silent auction, and endless fun—all in support of a critical cause.

    “This success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering generosity of our sponsors, the outstanding entertainment, and the amazing volunteers who gave their all to make this event a triumph,” said Stefanie Ink Edwards, CEO of Community Cooperative. “We are deeply grateful for the dedication of our community, financial supporters, volunteers, board members and staff. Together, we’re making a real difference for those in need.”

    Special thanks to incredible sponsors, including FineMark National Bank & Trust as Presenting Sponsor, Friends of Kevin Ruane as Queen of Hearts Sponsor, and so many others who made this event possible. In-kind sponsors like Florida Weekly, Flower Path, Lady Cakes, and G3 Catering also played a huge role in bringing this event to life.

    The funds raised will help fuel vital programs like Sam’s Community Café and Kitchen, Meals on Wheels, mobile food pantries, social and education resources, and more. But the need doesn’t stop here. With hunger and homelessness continuing to impact countless lives in Southwest Florida, ongoing support is essential. To donate, volunteer, or learn more about Community Cooperative’s mission, visit communitycooperative.com.

    About Community Cooperative

    Since 1984, Community Cooperative has worked to effectively eliminate hunger and homelessness in southwest Florida while simultaneously inspiring and supporting sustained positive change in its clients by delivering innovative food, education, and social service programs. With a dedicated team of volunteers, board of directors and staff, Community Cooperative stays committed to its core responsibility to collect and distribute resources through a strong and viable network of community partners. Community Cooperative is an exemplary steward of the resources entrusted to it and serves clients with compassion and integrity. Through collaboration and ongoing education, Community Cooperative supports and strengthens those whose lives have been affected by hunger and homelessness, ensuring that they have access to the resources necessary to transform their lives with dignity. For information, visit CommunityCooperative.com.

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    Media Contacts:

    Holly Boldrin, APR, CPRC, Priority Marketing, 239-267-2638, 239-887-9335 (cell) or holly@prioritymarketing.com

    Kathy Becker, Priority Marketing, 239-267-2638, 239-470-2681 (cell) or kathyb@prioritymarketing.com

    Aliyah Santana, Community Cooperative, 239-332-7687 ext. 105. or Aliyah@CommunityCooperative.com