Bishop-Parker Foundation Awards $35,000 Grant to Support Manatee Families Through Parenting Matters Programs

Parenting Matters, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families across Manatee County, has received a generous $35,000 grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation. The funding will allow the organization to continue its impactful work through two vital programs—Parent Partner and Chosen Families—reaching families from Anna Maria Island to Myakka City.

The Parent Partner Program delivers customized, in-home education for parents of children ages 0–12, emphasizing parenting skills, safety, and emotional well-being. The Chosen Families Program, designed specifically for adoptive families with children ages 0–17, provides trauma-informed care, long-term support, and relationship-building tools. Together, these programs helped nearly 700 children and parents in 2024.

Parenting Matters prioritizes families who fall at or below the ALICE threshold (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), ensuring that services reach those who are often overlooked by traditional assistance programs. According to a recent anonymous survey from January to March 2025, parents praised the Parent Partner Program for helping reduce stress, teaching behavioral strategies, and providing emotional relief during parenting challenges.

One parent shared, “This is the best thing I could have done for our family.” Another noted, “This program has helped me learn to control and regulate myself. I’ve improved my knowledge of how to manage tantrums and unwelcome behaviors.”

Katie Becker, executive director of Parenting Matters, emphasized the critical role of community partners:

“Every child deserves the chance to grow up feeling safe, valued, and ready to succeed. Thanks to Bishop-Parker Foundation, more families will receive the tools and guidance they need to thrive.”

Wendy Deming, CEO of the Bishop-Parker Foundation, echoed this sentiment:

“We are proud to support Parenting Matters in their mission to uplift families and empower parents. Their efforts make a lasting difference in the lives of children throughout our region.”

Parenting Matters is one of only three nationally accredited Child Abuse Prevention Centers in Florida and provides services in both English and Spanish, often at no cost. Their programs are research-based and accessible, including in-home visits and group sessions.

To learn more or support Parenting Matters, visit www.ParentingMattersFL.org.
Media Contact:
Rebekah Prieto, Director of Development and Marketing
Office: (941) 756-3007 | Cell: (928) 830-9579
Email: RPrieto@ParentingMattersFL.org

About Bishop-Parker Foundation

Rooted in the values of its founders, the Bishop-Parker Foundation partners with nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and animals throughout Manatee County. Learn more at www.BishopParkerFoundation.org.

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