The Tampa Police Department awarded $45,000 in total funding to ten local community organizations. The funding will aid community partners who are engaged in projects and programs benefiting the citizens of Tampa and that support the spirit of the Tampa Police Department’s mission to work in partnership with our community to reduce crime, improve quality of life, and make Tampa safer, together.
“Tampa’s strength comes from the partnership between our police department and a community dedicated to progress,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “The funds awarded today will help each organization continue their vital work, improving the lives of those we share this city with. Together, we’re building a safer, stronger, and more connected Tampa.”
TPD C.A.R.E.S. funding must serve residents within the municipal boundaries of the City of Tampa by addressing a youth or adult program geared towards crime prevention and community engagement. This includes but is not limited to social development, mentorship, prevention and treatment of drug or domestic abuse, and mental health.
The organizations selected to receive TPD C.A.R.E.S. funding for 2025 are:
CHILDREN WITH A VISION (awarded $15,000)
https://www.childrenwithavisioninc.com/
For more than 30 years, Children with a Vision has supported Tampa families through education, family engagement, and community safety initiatives. Founded by Tonya Lewis, the organization hosts impactful events like the Back-to-School Giveaway, Fall Festival, and Grandmothers Gala. With continued support from the Tampa Police Department, this funding will help expand their reach and deepen their impact across neighborhoods.
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF TAMPA (awarded $10,000)
With over six decades of service, Junior Achievement prepares students for success through financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship education. Their partnership with the Tampa Police Department introduces youth to public safety careers and mentorship. The grant will help enhance opportunities for students in underserved areas.
GARLAND V. STEWART FOUNDATION (awarded $5,000)
https://www.piiotafoundation.org/
Founded in 2023 by the Pi Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, this foundation empowers youth through leadership, character-building, and educational programs. With initiatives like Ad Astra S.T.E.M., the organization is expanding access to aviation and aerospace fields for Title I students. This funding will support scholarships, technology access, and mentorship.
CHANDELIER TRANSFORMATION YOUTH MENTORING (awarded $5,000)
Since 2017, CTYM has empowered youth from underserved Tampa neighborhoods through education, mentorship, and drug prevention. Led by founder Kathy R. Smith, the organization’s Project RISE fosters resilience, builds community ties, and strengthens partnerships with law enforcement. Grant funds will support ongoing programming and outreach.
SISTERS EMPOWERING WOMEN (awarded $2,000)
https://www.sistersempoweringwomen.org/
Dedicated to the mental health and development of marginalized teen girls, this organization provides mentorship, life skills training, and journaling programs for high school students. This funding will help expand support for young women on the path to graduation and adulthood.
COMMUNITY STEPPING STONES. INC. (awarded $2,000)
https://www.communitysteppingstones.org/
Since 1999, Community Stepping Stones has used art and science to inspire at-risk youth. Programs like the Community Arts Initiative and Art Box provide safe, creative environments where students build confidence and life skills. The grant will help sustain and grow these transformative programs.
METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES (awarded $2,000)
A cornerstone of compassion since 1972, Metropolitan Ministries supports individuals facing homelessness with dignity and care. Their BrigAIDe street team delivers critical services, such as ID vouchers and transportation, across the region. The funding will assist in expanding outreach and essential resources for those in crisis.
TRIBE- SEMINOLE HEIGHTS, INC. (awarded $2,000)
https://www.tribeseminoleheights.com/
Since 2018, TRIBE has provided free programming and support to over 4,700 families through arts classes, youth events, and basic needs distribution. Following Hurricane Milton, they are restoring vital services and expanding access to essential goods. The grant will help advance this mission and community recovery efforts.
LEARN AND SERVE TAMPA, INC. (awarded $1,000)
https://www.learnandservetampa.org/
Founded by educator Dr. Kristy Verdi, Learn and Serve engages students in meaningful service projects, particularly on national service days. Programs like the 9/11 Day of Service teach youth the value of leadership and civic responsibility while honoring veterans and first responders. The funding will expand student-led community impact efforts.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS, CORP. (awarded $1,000)
https://workforcedevelopmentpartners.com/
Since 2015, this organization has helped bridge the gap between education and employment through its Future Career Academy. Serving 37 Hillsborough County schools, it connects students with post-graduation pathways and careers in law enforcement and public service. The grant will support career exploration and workforce development initiatives.
To watch this year’s ceremony: https://youtu.be/f0AJvp1kJ2s