SARASOTA, FL - “Philanthropy, leadership and volunteer support are key qualities to a corporate community outreach program,” said Kathryn Shea, LCSW. The president and CEO of The Florida Center for Early Childhood made these remarks as she presented the 2012 Corporate Partner of the Year award to Caldwell Trust Company, noting that the locally based investment adviser possesses all three key attributes.
Ms. Shea presented the award at The Florida Center’s annual employee ceremony, held at Marina Jack Restaurant in downtown Sarasota. More than 75 staff, board members and guests were on hand to see Caldwell Trust Company representatives Jan Miller and Sonya Dlug accept the plaque in recognition of the company’s service.
“Caldwell Trust Company demonstrates an outstanding commitment toward philanthropy and is a leader in community involvement,” Shea said. “The company directly supports numerous not-for-profit organizations; lends leadership and volunteer support to organizations’ special events; and implements seminars that support educational topics for families and children in Sarasota County.”
Caldwell Trust Company, based in Venice and Sarasota, prides itself on its independence, traditional approach and personal service, according to Shea. The company offers a full range of fiduciary services and has more than one-half billion dollars in assets under management for hundreds of individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations including The Florida Center.
“We are pleased to report that Caldwell manages investments for our endowment fund,” she said. “In addition, the company has helped us transform our programs through its ongoing donations, not only of cash but also of volunteer service and leadership.
Caldwell’s philanthropic involvement with The Florida Center began in 1996 when R. G. “Kelly” Caldwell, Jr., Caldwell’s CEO and president, began a six-year term on the board of directors of The Florida Center. “Since that time, one or more of Caldwell’s staff have assisted with planning events or serving on our board,” Shea said. “Jan Miller, a Caldwell vice president and trust officer, is a past board chair who provided extensive service for years. Trust officer Sonya Dlug currently serves on two board committees and Kelly Caldwell’s wife, Melissa Caldwell, is the agency’s special event chairperson for our 25th Anniversary Festival of Trees, set for December 7, 2012.”
Caldwell Trust Company’s support of The Florida Center has continued for more than 16 years. Shea reported that in just the last five years, Caldwell has:
o made direct cash contributions to The Florida Center in excess of $50,000;
o advised donors contributions in excess of $400,000; and
o provided volunteer services and leadership guidance that have encouraged over one-quarter of a million dollars from special event proceeds.
“We are grateful to Caldwell Trust Company,” Shea said. “Their support has enabled The Florida Center to make a profound impact on our community, using evidence-based best practices in early childhood development.”