09/16/2025
From Founder to Future
Carrying the Mission Forward
Nearly six years ago, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Linda Hoy, a retired CPA, and I pooled our personal resources to launch Making An Impact. Our vision was simple but bold: to help those who help others find local resources that meet basic needs. We believed that while no single agency could meet every need, a trusted resource guide could empower staff to redirect clients to the right organizations.
In the early days, some funders questioned whether this B2B approach to nonprofits was necessary or duplicative. But local nonprofits, faith-based groups, and law enforcement quickly recognized the gap we were filling, the value we offered, and how our guides complemented existing tools. Demand skyrocketed.
Since then, we’ve expanded our offerings to include the Disaster Recovery and Pharmacy Discount Guides, all of which are available in print, online, and in multiple languages. Today, more than 8,000 printed Basic Needs Resource Guides are in circulation, with thousands more accessed online. Seeing our work become one of Sarasota and Manatee’s most trusted and widely used tools has been deeply gratifying.
For six years, I’ve poured my time, energy, and heart into this mission. While it hasn’t always been easy, it has been worthwhile. As I step off the board and pass the baton to our first employee and new Executive Director, I do so with confidence. Making An Impact is not about one person—it’s about the mission. And that mission will carry on, stronger than ever.
# Sarasota