Sarasota’s veteran community is built on service, camaraderie, and connection, and this season, SRQ VETS invites you to take part in two meaningful events that support local heroes and their families.
Whether you’re giving the gift of joy to a child or honoring a veteran’s legacy with a raffle ticket, your participation helps strengthen the community and support essential veteran services in Sarasota.
7th Annual Toy Drive Breakfast: A Sarasota Holiday Tradition
- Saturday, December 6, 2025
- VFW Post 3233 – “The Tank,” Sarasota, FL
- 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Admission: One new, unwrapped toy ($15+ value)
SRQ VETS and VFW Post 3233 invite you to the 7th Annual Toy Drive Breakfast, a festive, family-focused celebration that brings together veterans, families, and supporters for a great cause.
Bring a toy, enjoy a hot breakfast, and help make the holidays brighter for local children. This popular event includes:
- A free breakfast for anyone donating a toy
- Photos with Santa
- Holiday crafts and letters to Santa
- Kids’ games and community fun
Why it matters: Every toy collected supports families in need right here in Sarasota County. It’s a tangible way to give back and honor those who’ve served by helping their children experience the joy of the season.
Tip: Want to do even more? Coordinate with your school or workplace to gather toys and deliver them together for a team impact!
Hitch’s Harley Raffle Celebration: Honoring a Local Veteran’s Final Wish
Raffle Dates: Nov 8, 2025 @ 7 PM – Feb 14, 2026 @ 9 PM
Celebration Event: Saturday, Feb 14, 2026 @ 6 PM
The Dog Pound – 2303 Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL
Raffle Tickets: $20 each or 6 for $100
More Info & Tickets »
Help honor the legacy of “Hitch,” a proud U.S. Army veteran who spent his life supporting fellow vets. Before he passed, Hitch made one final request: to use his cherished 2006 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic to continue helping local veterans.
Now, SRQ VETS is making that vision a reality, with 100% of raffle proceeds going to fund veteran support services in Sarasota.
Join us for the Celebration Party on February 14, featuring:
- Live music
- Food trucks & burgers for sale
- Vendors, raffles & giveaways
- A vibrant, community-focused evening
“Hitch believed in helping his brothers and sisters long after his service ended. This event is about keeping that spirit alive and thriving.” – SRQ VETS Team
Why These Events Matter
Both the Toy Drive and the Harley Raffle Celebration offer more than just fun, they fund critical services like:
- Mental health resources
- Family support programs
- Career and education assistance
- Peer support networks
By participating, you’re contributing directly to local programs that uplift Sarasota veterans year-round. Learn more about these services at SRQ VETS Services.
How You Can Help
Here’s how to get involved:
- Donate a toy on Dec 6
- Buy raffle tickets for Hitch’s Harley
- Invite friends & family to join the events
- Share on social media with #SRQVets #VeteransGiveBack
- Become a sponsor or volunteer. Contact Us to learn how
Let’s Make This Season One of Service and Celebration
Whether you’re honoring a legacy or helping a child smile, your support brings real impact to Sarasota veterans and their families. Join SRQ VETS this holiday season and make a difference that lasts far beyond December.
Explore More SRQ VETS Events
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Contact SRQ VETS to learn how you or your business can contribute.