FTPA's Dedication to Charity: Changing the Game and Giving Back
FTPA is on a mission! We recognize that we have a responsibility to contribute positively to the communities we serve. That's why we've made it our goal to not only excel in our professional endeavors but also to dedicate our time and financial resources to charitable causes.
Since 2022, FPTA has chosen a local charity to support the community where we will hold our annual conference. Our efforts focus not only on raising financial resources for the organizations, but also to dedicate time volunteering where possible.
The FPTA charitable efforts kicked off in 2022. That year, FPTA organized a charity fundraising event for the Harry Chapin Food Bank, a leading hunger-relief nonprofit in Fort Myers, FL. The food bank feeds nearly 250,000 people each month, and through our efforts, we were able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity in our community.
In 2023, the FPTA took our commitment to the next level by volunteering our time. Last May, a group of 11 FTPA members and leaders came together to serve in person at the Harry Chapin Food Bank. In just three hours, the team packed more than 4,000 lbs of fresh vegetables for families and seniors in need. The experience was not only rewarding but also a reminder of the power of collective action and community spirit.
At our 2023 annual conference in Fort Myers, FPTA again used the gathering as an opportunity to further support the local community and economy as it continues to recover from the effects of Hurricane Ian in 2022. Through our combined efforts in 2022-2023, FPTA has raised more than $9,000 for the Harry Chapin Food Bank.
As an association, we understand that time is our most valuable asset. By investing our time (in addition to money) in service to others, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those around us. Whether it's through fundraising efforts or hands-on volunteering, we are committed to using our resources for the betterment of society. Further, these volunteer events allow us to strengthen our own community of parking, transportation, and mobility professionals, providing us with an opportunity to connect through these incredible shared experiences.
At FTPA, we believe that by actively engaging in acts of service and philanthropy, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for all. We look forward to continuing our series of charitable events and fundraising opportunities throughout 2024 and beyond! Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our efforts to give back to the community. Join us as we strive to make a difference, one act of kindness at a time.
Stay tuned for more information about this year's charitable efforts! We will soon be announcing an organization to support during our 2024 conference in Amelia Island!