Manatee Children's Services, Inc MCS Child Advocacy Center

06/01/2026

🌈💛 June is a time to recognize many important causes that impact the well-being of children and families—including Pride Month, National Safety Month, and Family Reunification Month. 💛🌈

At Manatee Children’s Services, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported, valued, and accepted for exactly who they are. This month, we’re reminded that belonging, safety, and strong family connections matter. When children know they are loved, respected, and supported by the adults around them, they are better able to grow, heal, and thrive. We are proud to stand alongside all young people and families in our community and remain committed to creating spaces where every child feels seen, heard, and safe.

💛 Because every child deserves to know they matter.

05/30/2026

MYTH: “Child abuse only happens in certain types of families.”

FACT: Child abuse can affect any child, in any community, regardless of background, income, or appearance.

That’s why education, awareness, and accessible support services matter so much. When communities stay informed and involved, children are safer. 💛

05/29/2026

Support local kids in TWO easy ways this week 💙🐾⚽

First, don’t forget to vote for our amazing therapy dog! Therapy animals provide comfort, safety, and calm for children during difficult moments, and every vote helps highlight the impact they make in our community.

Then join us on June 13th for a fun night with Manatee Children’s Services and Sarasota Paradise at Premier Sports Campus! A portion of every ticket purchased goes directly back to supporting the children and families we serve.

🐶 Vote here: https://srqmagazine.secondstreetapp.com/2026-Pets-We-Love-Fan-Favorites/gallery/541702932/

⚽ Grab tickets through the QR code or here: https://tickets.sarasotaparadise.us/event/game-10-omaha-oig1a8

Come cheer, connect, and support a great cause with us!

Check it out now!

05/28/2026

Our development team had the honor of attending the Charitable Gift Planners of Southwest Florida’s “Planned Giving 101” presentation led by Jocelyn Udell, where they learned the essentials of helping donors find their purpose through leaving a charitable legacy.

If you’re considering supporting MCS through meaningful giving that will last for future generations, we’d love to connect!

05/27/2026

Sometimes the biggest difference in a child’s life comes from something small. 💛

A safe adult.
A listening ear.
A moment of patience.
A community that cares.

Every day, we’re reminded how important connection and support are for children and families in our community.

Thank you for continuing to stand with us and support the mission of MCS.

05/26/2026

Last week, MCS team members Krista Post and Nadine Kilduff, Parenting Program Manager, attended the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers conference alongside professionals from across the state dedicated to supporting children and families. 💛

The conference provided valuable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and professional growth that will continue strengthening the work we do here at MCS every day.

We’re grateful to the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers for the invitation and for investing in the continued education and development of child advocacy professionals.

05/24/2026

From community events to classrooms to one-on-one support, we’re always looking for ways to connect with the families and children in our community 💛

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth at the Spring Expo to learn more about the services, support, and prevention programs available through Manatee Children’s Services.

Every conversation helps spread awareness and strengthen the safety net around local children and families.

05/22/2026

Please help us welcome our newest board member, Julian Germinal, and wish him a very happy birthday today! 🎉💛

Julian is a Sarasota-Bradenton real estate broker and founder of Germinal X Real Estate Authority, serving families across Manatee and Sarasota Counties. But what makes his voice especially powerful is his lived experience.

As a former foster youth who grew up within the same shelter and group home system MCS operates, Julian understands firsthand the impact safe spaces, support, and stability can have on a child’s future.

Today, he’s a husband, father of four, business owner, and community leader who is passionate about showing children in care what’s possible beyond their circumstances.

“My story is proof that the kids inside this system right now can build a normal life. They can become productive, whole adults.”

We are honored to have Julian bringing not only his professional experience, but also his heart, story, and advocacy to the MCS Board. Welcome, Julian AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY! 🎂

05/21/2026

⚽️ A night out for the community that gives back to local kids 💛

Join us on June 13th as the Sarasota Paradise takes the field in support of Manatee Children’s Services! 30% of every ticket purchased through our link goes directly back to helping children and families in our community.

We’re also looking for sponsors to help send children in our programs to enjoy the game and experience a fun night out this summer. If you or your business would like to sponsor tickets, please send us a message - every sponsored seat makes a difference.

🎟️ Grab tickets or become a sponsor here:
https://tickets.sarasotaparadise.us/event/6932f216fdbad7cde97d6814/69bc240c61cae0f7b6b00584

📍Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch
🗓️ June 13th
⏰ 7:30 PM

05/20/2026

Meet one of the very best pups on the internet 💙🐾

Our therapy dog is in the running for SRQ Magazine’s “Pets We Love” Fan Favorite and we’d love your support! Every vote helps highlight the comfort, healing, and support therapy animals bring to children and families in our community.

Vote here:
https://srqmagazine.secondstreetapp.com/2026-Pets-We-Love-Fan-Favorites/gallery/541702932/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Please vote, share, and help us spread the word! 💙