Skip to main content
You are viewing:The Suncoast Post > Events > Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Announce 2025 Champions for Children Gala Honoring the Baranciks
Champions for Children

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Announce 2025 Champions for Children Gala Honoring the Baranciks

| Suncoast Post Staff |

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) is thrilled to present the 2025 Champions for Children Gala, now rebranded as the “New Era Gala: Celebrating the Baranciks’ Legacy”, honoring the extraordinary philanthropic contributions of Charles & Margery Barancik.

Scheduled for Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the elegant new venue The Ora in Sarasota, this gala represents both gratitude for a timeless legacy and an exciting evolution for one of the Club’s most anticipated fundraising events.

Honoring a Transformative Legacy

Charles and Margery Barancik were foundational in shaping BGCSDC’s impact—championing youth empowerment through academic support, expanded facilities, and resilient programming. Their philanthropic support was instrumental in opening the Newtown Estates Park Club (the organization’s fifth site), and more recently, backing the development of the Roy McBean Boys & Girls Club, a cutting-edge facility on the Irving and Marilyn Naiditch Campus.

Champions for Children

The Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, established in 2014, has awarded over $170 million in grants supporting bold, community-focused initiatives—reflecting the couple’s shared belief in philanthropy as a meaningful life pursuit.

Their hands-on approach and lasting influence continue through expanded Club operations, enriched programming, staff and scholarship funding, and, most recently, capital investments for new facilities.

Gala Highlights

Attendees of the Children Gala will enjoy:

  • A reception kicking off the evening at The Ora.
  • A gourmet three‑course dinner catered by Michael’s on East, known for its tasteful offerings.
  • Live and silent auctions to raise critical funds for youth services.
  • Inspirational performances by members of the Boys & Girls Clubs—bringing mission moments to life.

Gala proceeds will fund award‑winning programs aimed at promoting academic achievement, leadership, healthy lifestyles, and career readiness across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.

Tickets & Sponsorships

  • Individual tickets are priced at $400.
  • A limited number of sponsorships are available via www.bgcsdc.org/events.
  • For inquiries, contact Valerie Quigley, Community Engagement Manager, at 941‑366‑3911.
  • To donate in lieu of attendance, visit bgcsdc.org.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties

BGCSDC has served local youth for over 50 years, offering daily programming to thousands across both counties. Its mission: to empower young people, especially those who need support most—to realize their full potential as caring, responsible, productive citizens. The organization strives to ensure every youth graduates high school with a future plan, strong character, and a healthy lifestyle.

Photo from BGCSDC

Skip to content