Nonprofit merger leads to $3.7M fund

BRADENTON — A new fund was established at Manatee Community Foundation as part of the recent merger of United Way of Manatee County and United Way Suncoast.

According to a press release, the $3.7 million fund was formed with the assets of the United Way Foundation of Manatee County, which was created to support United Way operations in Manatee County.

Manatee Community Foundation partners with United Way on the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, shares financial supporters and invests in common nonprofits.

“This significant fund was grown by those who live and give in Manatee County and will continue to be nurtured at Manatee Community Foundation in the spirit of a great partnership that already exists with United Way," says Manatee Community Foundation Executive Director Susie Bowie in a statement.

Manatee Community Foundation has $42 million in assets and is home to more than 240 funds. United Way Suncoast serves DeSoto, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties.