Giving Challenge surpassed in first few hours

Shortly after 10 a.m. this morning, The Giving Partner's website reports that the 36-Hour Giving Challenge has brought in approximately 5,100 gifts, totaling $1.78 million.

The challenge kicked-off this morning at 6 a.m., and will continue until 6 p.m. Wednesday.

The organization receiving the most gifts and funds so far is The Manatee Players Inc., with 281 gifts, totaling $122,260.

Other organizations on top the leaderboard include Florida Studio Theatre Inc., with $49,575 raised, New College Foundation Incorporated, with $56,684 raised, and Mote Marine Laboratory, with $59,830 raised.

1:1 matched funds have already been exhausted, however additional prizes and grant prizes are still available for organizations.

To donate, visit www.thegivingpartner.org.

Contact Eddie Kirsch at [email protected].