Last leg of $1M gift made to nonprofit

After five years, a gift in the form of $1 million is officially wrapping itself up with a bow. 

The founder and chairman of Lakewood Ranch-based homebuilder Neal Communities, Pat Neal, along with his wife, Charlene Neal, made a donation of $1 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County five years ago. The commitment was to be paid out over five years. 

“Philanthropy has always been extremely important to us, both personally and in everything we do at Neal Communities,” says Pat Neal in a statement. “We understand how valuable and impactful it is to support the younger members of the communities in which we live and work. Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County does such a phenomenal job in helping local children and teens develop and thrive in the immediate while also preparing them for future success, and we’re so happy to be able to support the organization’s life-changing work.”

This year, the couple made the final $200,000 donation to the nonprofit, according to the statement. The nonprofit with more than $24.8 million in assets offers afterschool and summer programs that support students through academic success and developing leadership skills.

The donation was made in particular support of the nonprofit’s Invest in Kids campaign, which was started in hopes of rebuilding its DeSoto Club campus. The couple’s donation underwrote a new flex sports field at the DeSoto Club that has been named the Patrick and Charlene Neal Field, the release states. 

“Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County appreciates all that the Neal family has done in support of our youth over the years,” says Dawn Stanhope, president and CEO of the nonprofit, in the statement. “Their investment reflects a strong commitment to our community. Because of their generosity, we are able to encourage kids to address tough issues and build their resiliency through positive mentorship, in a safe and welcoming environment where everyone belongs.”

Pat Neal founded Neal Communities in 1970. During that time the homebuilder has developed more than 90 communities in Southwest Florida. Charlene Neal is the president of Charlene Neal PureStyle as well as the VP of design at Neal Communities where she oversees the design for all new communities and styling and decor for Neal Signature Homes and Neal Communities. 

“The future is bright for our young people thanks to caring and dedicated leaders like Pat and Charlene Neal,” says Stanhope. “We are truly grateful for their backing of our mission which inspires others to get involved.”