2nd Annual Kindness Matters Extravaganza in Holmes Beach
One ARK Foundation, Inc., short for One Act of Random Kindness, is a newly established non-profit organization located in the Bradenton area. Founded by Kane and Jennifer Geils, who are licensed Foster Care Parents in Bradenton for the past two years and as foster parents for six years. Notably, Kane and Jennifer are the proprietors of The Cheesecake Cutie & Café in Holmes Beach, recently honored as the Medium Size Business of the Year.
Initially embarking on fostering while residing at the All Star Children’s Foundation in Sarasota with their two biological children, they accommodated three young sisters (ages 3, 6, and 7) before they were reunited with their family after eight months. Subsequently, they welcomed two sisters (ages 14 and 10) from another family on campus. Recognizing the gaps and challenges within the foster care system during their fostering journey, Kane and Jennifer advocated for the girls in their care, striving to integrate the two families seamlessly despite encountering obstacles in accessing family counseling services.
In light of their experiences, the couple aspired to support both new and experienced foster parents through the One ARK Foundation. Fostering can impose strains on marriages, biological children, and familial dynamics, necessitating ongoing care and attention to maintain stability.
One ARK Foundation aims to cater to the specific requirements of foster, adoptive, single-parent families, and biological children. With a Christ-centered mission, the organization is committed to assisting foster/adoptive parents, children, single parents, and biological children within the local community. The foundation endeavors to offer programs that enhance social skills, life skills, and personal development for children, fostering self-assurance and empowering them to lead successful adult lives.
Jennifer and Kane orchestrated a fundraising event last year at The Cheesecake Cutie & Café to support local foster programs, generating $7,500 in funds. This year’s “Kindness Matters Extravaganza” with Solid Rock Construction Group, LLC, is sponsoring the event. The event is scheduled for Thursday, March 21st, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the Café’s location (3324 E. Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, FL). Tickets are currently available for $50 per person, inclusive of food, two drinks, and cheesecake. Additional drink purchases will contribute to the fundraising efforts. Food sponsors for the event include Slickers Eatery, Kiwi Style Fish & Chips, and The Cheesecake Cutie. Bob Slicker will be engaging guests with entertaining games and a live auction, music for the evening will be provided by Mike Sales and speakers from the local foster community. The objective of the event is to raise funds that will enable One ARK to support the needs of at least five local families.
Photos from Cheesecake Cutie