REAL Exclusive Magazine

Neal Communities Steps Up To The Plate With Final $30K Donation.

At an estimated cost of $150,000 for a much-needed new concession building for Manatee East Little League at Lakewood Ranch Park the league went looking. $100,000 was committed from Manatee County thanks to the support from County Commissioner Donna Hayes and Manatee County Parks and Recreation. Additionally another $20,000 was raised from Little League fundraising programs, Manatee East County families, Board Members, and other individual and corporate contributors.

That left a $30,000 shortfall and League Board Member Allen Steinfeld approached Pat Neal to seek Neal Communities’ backing. Following a mud-filled tour of the current concession area and the dilapidated trailer that served as the concession stand, Neal stepped up to the plate with the final $30K donation.

“The combined efforts of the Board Members, Manatee County, small business owners and parents of the little leaguers, demonstrate how a community can come together to make an important project for kids and their families a reality,” said Steinfeld.

Asked why Neal Communities came on board, Neal stated, “We’re longtime residents and raised our own kids here,” said Neal. “Providing facilities that encourage kids to get involved in sports is paramount to a community’s success – kids who are involved in sports are more likely to be achievers in school and other aspects of their lives. It was just the right thing to do,” Neal added.

From a dilapidated, 8’ x 16’ trailer to a professionally constructed 30’ x 40’ building, the new Manatee East Little League Concession Building will be in keeping with the very well maintained playing fields and the beautiful Lakewood Ranch community. It will include restrooms, storage space, and ample space for concession sales, of which a percentage goes back to the Manatee East Little League.

Photo: Pat Neal www.nealcommunities.com