Visible Men Academy in Bradenton to host fundraiser on newly purchased property
MANATEE -- After buying neighboring land from Manatee County, organizers at Visible Men Academy are planning a fundraiser for April 29 on the site of the school's planned expansion.
Under a tent, attendees will be able to stand on the property and draw their own visions of what the new school may look like, as any type of plans or drawings are still far off. Organizers know the fundraising efforts need to start early, and the April 29 event will be used to generate contributions for uniforms, school supplies and books.
"I think for us to go to like a splashy venue, that's just not who we are. This just makes much more sense to us. It gives us the opportunity for people to put their feet on their property where we're ultimately going to have our school," said Mitzie Henson, the school's development coordinator. "It's a bit of a glimpse into the future."
Visible Men Academy is an all-boys charter school at 1003 63rd Ave. W., in the
Pride Park area of Bradenton. It targets boys in low-income areas to try to break the cycle of poverty.
Right now, the 115 boys in kindergarten through grade five learn in space rented from the Community Church of God and four portables in the back of the site.
"2016 marks a pivotal point in our efforts to move from portables to a brick-and-mortar school," school founder Neil Phillips said in a new release. "Our success in breaking the cycle for boys from low-income families is a proven model. Our two-generation approach leads both the boys and their parents or guardians to discover the unrecognized potential that changes lives."
In June, county commissioners signed off on selling a surplus property located at 63rd Avenue West and Ninth Street West to the school for $85,000. Plans for a building remain in the early stages, Henson said. She estimates a 2017-18 or 2018-19 opening.
"We're in the process of interviewing architects and construction managers and talking to the county, all of that is still in process. We would love to open as soon as possible," Henson said, adding that fundraisers will be key.
A capital campaign to fund the building also is in the planning stages.
The "SHINE ON" event will include a cocktail reception, dinner, live auction and a performance from West Coast Black Theatre Troupe. Proceeds from "SHINE ON" will pay for programs at the school as well as supplies and uniforms for the students. Tickets are $150 per person and can be purchased online at vmacademy.org/shine-on.
Meghin Delaney, education reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7081. Follow her on Twitter @MeghinDelaney.
This story was originally published March 29, 2016 at 10:42 PM with the headline "Visible Men Academy in Bradenton to host fundraiser on newly purchased property ."