FISH OF SANCAP and FGCU Volunteers Spruce up Sanibel Properties Ahead of 50th Anniversary Celebration

FISH OF SANCAP (FISH) partnered with Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties, and local organizations to help Sanibel residents beautify their properties in preparation for the City of Sanibel’s 50th anniversary celebration. Over the Labor Day holiday weekend, 50 dedicated volunteers from the FGCU Pike Fraternity gave their time and energy to assist their neighbors in need.

The volunteer group worked tirelessly on various projects, including painting houses, rearranging furniture, maintaining yards, and landscaping—helping restore the island charm of properties still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Ian.

“We are incredibly grateful to these hardworking volunteers who chose to spend their holiday weekend serving our community,” said Manuela Martinez, Disaster Administrative Director of FISH. “Their dedication to helping our neighbors recover and prepare for the City’s milestone celebration reflects their true willingness to help others.”

FISH coordinated this community effort by surveying residents on their long-term recovery waiting list and collaborating with the City of Sanibel to communicate the availability of volunteer assistance. The response was overwhelming, with many grateful residents signing up to receive much-needed help to bring their properties back to life.

This initiative would not have been possible without the support of several key partners:

• Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Pike Fraternity: Supplied a team of student volunteers who dedicated their holiday weekend to community service.
• United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties: Provided coordination and support for volunteer efforts.
• Landgraphics: Generously loaned tools and equipment to facilitate the projects.
• Saint Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church: Provided a resting space for volunteers to cool off and recharge during the hot weekend hours.

The partnership among these organizations highlight the strong community ties and shared commitment to supporting Sanibel’s recovery and beautification efforts. The volunteers’ efforts not only helped enhance individual properties but also strengthened community relationships as Sanibel prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

“It’s wonderful to see so many hands come together to help our neighbors,” added Martinez. “Our collaboration with FGCU and our many partners shows that together, we can achieve great things.”

FISH remains dedicated to the mission of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” and looks forward to continuing its work with local partners and volunteers to support the community’s ongoing recovery efforts.