(Sarasota FL, October 23, 2009):  The Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice has awarded $90,863 to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Grant funding will underwrite the cost of adding resources and infrastructure needed to support future Gardens fundraising initiatives.

Selby Gardens’ Board of Trustees recently hired Ann Logan, former executive director of the Sarasota Ballet, as chief development officer. Ms. Logan brings in-depth experience in development systems, board recruitment and training, volunteer-driven fundraising, and prospect identification and cultivation. She will work hand-in-hand with Thomas Buchter, who joined the Gardens as CEO in February 2009, to enable Selby Gardens’ long-term financial strength.

“This is an incredible and much-needed boost to the Gardens’ ability to raise funding for one of Sarasota’s most beloved institutions,” said Selby Board Chair Thomas B. Luzier, Esq. “We are extremely grateful to the Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice for giving us a vote of confidence as well as a wonderful hand in building our capacity to raise future funding.”

Funding provided by this grant will assist in the mission of the Gardens which is to further the understanding and appreciation of plant life, with emphasis on epiphytes, and to provide enjoyment for all who visit the Gardens. 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a respected center for research and education as well as a famous orchid showplace.  The Gardens are located at 811 South Palm Avenue in Sarasota. It is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of Christmas day.

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