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Fundraiser Revels In Success

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By HAROLD VALENTINE, The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 20, 2007

CARROLLWOOD - Seven years ago, volunteers from the Bob Sierra Family YMCA held a successful fundraiser called Caribana, attracting 100 attendees.

But success at this year's Caribana is measured on a larger scale, with six times as many attendees and plenty of corporate sponsorship, garnering what organizers said was $140,000 - a record for the annual event.

Robert Wiggins, executive director at the Bob Sierra Family YMCA, said Caribana is one of only a few YMCA fundraisers completely run by volunteers to help families with disadvantaged children. The event was held Oct. 13 at the International Jet Center near Tampa International Airport.

'It takes so many people for it to happen,' Wiggins said. 'Before we sent invitations it was pretty much sold out.'

Wiggins said the event has grown year after year. It used to be held at the Bob Sierra Family YMCA property, but it has long since outgrown its origins. Wiggins attributes the success to volunteers, especially Jim and Lori Gibson.

The Gibsons started sponsoring the event four years ago, underwriting Caribana's expenses. Lori Gibson sits on the committee.

'We decided we really wanted to put our fingerprints on something that made a difference,' said Jim Gibson, president and CEO of Tampa-based Axiom Worldwide. 'Caribana was starting to grow four years ago, so we jumped on.'
Jim Gibson emphasized that children, and what the YMCA does for them, is what motivated his family to help. With four daughters, he said he likes that his money and time go directly to accommodate poor families and children with disabilities.

'We feel very blessed to have our beautiful children,' Lori Gibson said. 'We know that not everyone is as fortunate as we are in many ways. We want to give back to the community. Part of that is working for such great people that give their time and so much effort.'

Tables seating eight sold for $600. Among many corporate sponsors, Outback Steakhouse was a leading contributor. Wiggins said local businesses and individuals donated goods for a silent and live auction.

John DeNisco of Tampa-based Deno Boats donated a 17-foot fishing boat to Caribana. DeNisco's reason for participating in Caribana was consistent with other participants.

'I'm literally giving it away for children,' DeNisco said. 'I hope it makes a lot of money for them.'

At the event, Wiggins estimated the fundraiser would raise $90,000, which would translate to nearly 480 scholarships and pay for other projects throughout the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, which covers 16 YMCAs in Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

Lori Gibson said the 'lion's share' of the $140,000 likely will go to facilities in north Tampa but added the money should be shared with other facilities because they 'can't raise the money that we can.'
Jim Gibson said his family's role with Caribana is a yearlong commitment. Planning has already begun for next year's event. .

For information about the event, call (813) 962-3220 or visit www.tampaymca.org.

Reporter Harold Valentine can be reached at (813) 865-1526 or hvalentine@tampatrib.com.

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