Inspire a culture of philanthropy that advances healthy aging and creates meaningful opportunities to support Moorings Park residents, partners, and the greater Southwest Florida community.
What We Do
Philanthropy enhances the programs, services, and environments that make Moorings Park feel like home—supporting resident well-being, dignity, and daily enrichment.
Gifts in this area invest in the dedicated team members who make Moorings Park exceptional—supporting education, housing, child care, and access to resources that help them build stronger, more secure futures.
Philanthropy extends beyond our campuses to support local nonprofit organizations that serve and uplift individuals and families throughout our broader community.
Opening of C&J Café: Heartfelt Thanks to the Rakoskes
In the fall of 2024, the newly renovated C&J Café officially opened its doors—a warm, full-service space designed for connection, conversation, and community. Made possible through the generosity of John and Connie Rakoske, the café now offers residents a beautifully reimagined gathering spot that reflects their shared vision: to create...
Bower Chapel: A Legacy of Faith, Music, and Philanthropy
Dolly Bodick Korest with a photo of Alan Korest At Moorings Park, philanthropy is more than generosity—it is vision. It is the belief that what we build today should enrich the lives of those who come after us. This philosophy, often described as Cathedral Thinking, reflects the mindset of the...
When Music Bridges Generations
With support from the Moorings Park Foundation, Gulfshore Opera’s Connecting Seniors and Youth Through Music brought laughter, song, and connection to senior living communities across Collier, Lee, and Charlotte Counties in 2025–2026. Around 100 at-risk youth participated in six Harmony Choirs, learning more than music—they discovered empathy, confidence, and the...
Restoring Stability, Rebuilding Lives: Warrior Homes
Warrior Homes of Collier Bravo House For many veterans, the transition home is not easy. The challenges of re-entering civilian life can begin immediately—navigating a new routine, finding work, and adjusting to life beyond service. For some, those challenges deepen over time, as fixed incomes, rising costs, and unseen wounds...
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
When a child loses a parent, their world shifts instantly. For many families served by Valerie’s House, that loss is followed by another profound change—grandparents step in to raise their grandchildren while grieving the loss of their own child. With support from the Moorings Park Foundation, Valerie’s House created a...
Scholar Spotlight: Where Ambition Meets Opportunity
Cecelia Beard—Pursuing an MBA, Graduating Debt-Free Originally from Bloomington, Indiana, Cecelia (Cece) is pursuing her Master of Business Administration at Florida Gulf Coast University and will graduate in May 2026. Cece began her journey with Moorings Park in August 2023 as a Wellness intern. Her talents quickly stood out, leading...
A Full Circle of Impact: A Family Connection to Moorings Park
Project Explore, based at Moorings Park, offers transformative on-the-job training and personalized instruction, empowering students to build confidence and independence as they transition into the workforce. Our dedicated employees volunteer as mentors, guiding students as they shadow and assist with daily responsibilities. Their hands-on experience is paired with classroom instruction...
Partner Support: Supporting Those Who Support Us
At Moorings Park, our residents hold our partners in the highest esteem — and for good reason. Every day, our partners go above and beyond to ensure the comfort, care, and satisfaction of those they serve. Their unwavering dedication and thoughtful service consistently exceed expectations, making a meaningful difference in...
What Others Say
“Our Foundation reflects the very best of Moorings Park: residents who choose to invest in one another, strengthen our community, and shape a brighter future for future generations.”
– Dan Lavender, CEO & President, Moorings Park Communities
“As both a resident and Foundation board member, I’m proud to represent our shared commitment to supporting our wonderful programs. Our board and staff are constantly inspired by the encouragement and participation of our fellow residents.”
– Bob Rankin, Foundation Board Chair
“I truly appreciate the generosity of our residents and the Foundation, and for the opportunities their support has made possible. I feel fortunate to be part of an organization that invests in the growth and development of its employees.”
– Cecelia Beard, Assistant Project Manager, Moorings Park