Calusa Sportsman Foundation fishing tourney raises $180,000 for Valerie’s House, ‘Forever Home’
Bring a group of dedicated fishermen believing in a community cause together and what do you get? A check for $180,000 by the Calusa Sportsman Foundation to Valerie’s House and the non-profit’s “Forever Home” for continued support in helping children and families cope with the loss of a loved one.
The Sept. 9-10 Inshore Benefit fundraiser attracted 233 anglers, 63 teams and 54 sponsors. This was a virtual event, where boats could fish in many local waterways, catch the required fish, measure, and then submit their catches using an App.
The second-year event was originally the brainchild of the Calusa Sportsman Foundation founders Mark Wiles, Jeff Richards, and Mike Dannenhauer. The tournament raised $120,000 last year.
“Fishing, food and fun. We can’t think of a better event for the families of Valerie’s House,” said Valerie’s House founder and CEO Angela Melvin. “We are honored to be the beneficiary of the Calusa Sportsman Fishing Tournament this year and are grateful for all of the hard work of those involved.”
The donation was the largest this year for a single-event fundraiser supporting Valerie’s House and its operations, as well as the new home under construction near Veronica S. Shoemaker Boulevard in Fort Myers. Valerie’s House is raising $3 million, with hopes of opening the new house in 2023.
“What happens inside Valerie’s House is nothing short of amazing,” Wiles said. “To raise that amount of money this year shows the generosity and caring of the community.”
Valerie’s House opened in January of 2016 and since then has helped over 1,100 individuals, including children, parents and grandparents. To donate, go to valerieshouse.org.
About the Calusa Sportsman Foundation
Based in Fort Myers, the foundation is dedicated to building relationships through various outdoor sportsman activities and to help local non-profit organizations in Southwest Florida by raising money through the foundation’s various events. Foundation members share a deep sense of community stewardship, coupled with a passion for the camaraderie their events promote.