CFI Launches ‘Giving Tree’ to Grow Generosity This Holiday Season

provided to The Santiva Chronicle

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands invites the community to join in a holiday tradition that gives back in meaningful and lasting ways. This year’s CFI Giving Tree celebrates the growing canopy of compassion that connects Sanibel and Captiva—supporting programs that strengthen our islands today and nurture the leaders of tomorrow.

Each branch of the Giving Tree represents a CFI initiative that uplifts our community, including Power the Mission, Leadership Sanibel-Captiva, the Sanibel-Captiva Volunteer Expo, and CFI’s expanding portfolio of nonprofit education and board training programs.

CFI invites island residents, seasonal visitors, and community friends to make a year-end contribution that directly supports philanthropy, leadership development, and collaboration across Sanibel and Captiva.

A gift to Power the Mission sustains CFI’s year-round work—connecting neighbors, supporting nonprofit partners, and investing in programs that strengthen our community through leadership, philanthropy, and collaboration.

To celebrate this season of giving, the first 15 donors will receive a unique, handcrafted ornament created by local artist Ilie Ruby, owner of Sanibel’s Odessa Gallery. These exclusive ornaments will be displayed on the holiday tree at Florida Trust Wealth Management’s Sanibel office throughout December, then gifted to participating donors.

Your support helps fund initiatives such as:
• Power the Mission – fueling CFI’s day-to-day impact and year-round community programming
• Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program – cultivating the next generation of island leaders
• Volunteer Expo – connecting nonprofits with community members eager to serve
• Nonprofit Education & Board Training – strengthening the organizations that sustain island life

“Every gift to the Giving Tree helps expand the roots of generosity that make our islands so resilient,” said Dolly Farrell, CFI Executive Director. “Together, we can brighten the season for our community and invest in programs that make a year-round impact.”

Ways to Give
Donations can be made online here or in person at Florida Trust Wealth Management’s Sanibel office (ornaments on display throughout December). Donations by mail may be sent to: Charitable Foundation of the Islands, P.O. Box 1429, Sanibel, FL 33957.

For more information, visit MyCFI.org or email info@mycfi.org.

About the Charitable Foundation of the Islands
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) inspires philanthropy, leadership, and collaboration for the vitality of Sanibel and Captiva. Formally established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2011, CFI carries forward the legacy of the Francis Bailey Society to strengthen community life across the islands. Learn more at charitablefoundationoftheislands.org.