Giving Back to Charlee and Nova: Sarasota-Bradenton Community Rallies for Special Benefit Event on October 20
Big News: Tickets Now Available for “Giving Back” – A Heartfelt Fundraiser Supporting Charlee & Nova’s Future
Many of our friends outside the Sarasota-Bradenton area might not know the story of two incredibly special girls — Charlee and Nova. In November 2024, their mother, Sara, tragically lost her life due to the reckless actions of a drunk driver. Since then, our local community has come together in a powerful way to support their grandmother, “Gammie Leesa,” and provide love, consistency, and hope for the girls’ future.
Nancy and I, along with our beloved Shih Tzu Mookie and several friends, have stepped in as “surrogate grandparents.” Every Tuesday is Charlee and Nova Day — from OT and speech class to McDonald’s, Chuck E. Cheese, Slicker’s Eatery, Clancy’s Irish Pub, the Cortez Kitchen, or their favorite, The Swordfish Grill. But the biggest hit? Our house — early dinners, coloring books, Candy Land, and lots of belly laughs during hide-and-seek with Mookie. Their joy is infectious, and though they wear us out, we treasure every moment.
We’ve also bonded closely with their family and try to help whenever possible. These girls have brought incredible joy into our lives in our seventies, and we’re doing everything we can to make sure their journey is filled with adventure, love, and unforgettable memories.
Mark Your Calendars: October 20, 2025 – “Giving Back” at Swordfish Grill & Tiki
To help build a foundation for Charlee and Nova’s future — especially their education — we’ve teamed up with the generous folks at The Swordfish Grill & Tiki, The Suncoast Post and Sande Caplin & Associates to host a very special fundraiser on Monday, October 20, 2025. The event, titled “Giving Back,” will be an evening full of love, music, and community spirit. 100% of the proceeds will go to Charlee and Nova’s Florida 529 Education Fund.
The planning committee includes Katrina Cox, Kimberly Nemeth, Lily Banyas, Adam Sears from The Swordfish, Nancy Cohen, and me. We’ve already had an outpouring of volunteers and support, and we are beyond excited for what’s to come.
Thanks to our wonderful music sponsors — Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub and 88 Live Piano Bar — we’re thrilled to announce that one of the region’s most beloved bands, Kettle of Fish, will be performing live, featuring special guest Tim “TC” Chandler.
Tickets are now officially available for “Giving Back” — don’t wait! Be a part of something truly meaningful and help us create a more secure future for Charlee and Nova. Your support, love, and presence mean more than words can express.
Stay tuned for more updates by following our weekly adventures in “The Chronicles of Charlee and Nova.” And from the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our village.
With love and gratitude,
Sande Caplin
Purchase tickets or donate here.
Photos from Sande Caplin & Associates