August 1, 2016, Twin Lakes Park

The Friends of Sarasota County Parks in partnership with Sarasota County Department of Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, Sarasota Sun Devils Football/Cheer Association, Publix Charities and Apollo Sunguard, Inc., proudly recognized the community partners and supporters who translated a wish for additional protection from the harmful rays of the sun at the football field into reality through the installation of a UV protective shade structure over the bleachers and a new handicap accessible picnic/entertainment area. This shade structure is the first of over 30 to be purchased and installed by The Friends in the next 5 years at parks and recreation areas throughout Sarasota County.

Shade Is Good: Helping to Fight Skin Cancer is a new initiative of the Friends of Sarasota County Parks that will create additional shade opportunities which according to the Surgeon General is the only real answer to fighting skin cancer. The success of the multi-year capital campaign will be through partnerships, sponsors, fundraising events, grant awards and the net profits from the sale of UV and hydration products at community events and an e commerce site.

Here are more photos from the kick-off event for a very important challenge – Fighting Skin Cancer.