My Hometown Fest event raises funds for kids with speech needs

When Tim Self was brainstorming ways to raise money for children who need assistance in speech, some key factors came into play — music, food, and beer. Eleven years later, My Hometown Fest, a fundraiser that benefits nonprofit Sertoma Kids, is still rocking and rolling.

The event took place March 21 at Nathan Benderson Park.

Self, who is the chairman of the board of Sertoma Club of Greater Sarasota, founded the event and has been chair for the last 10 years. He said $300,000 was raised in the first 10 years with $50,000 of that last year.

"It's important for people to understand that when children are not provided with services at an early age, it causes problems as they progress, with their ability to hold down a job, with everything," said Sertoma Kids executive director Pam Plank. "Getting services early is so valuable for the future." 

Food, drinks and live music were enjoyed by those who attended. 

Sarasota's Michael Butler attended the event for the first time with his family and friends. He said it is great to see such an enjoyable event suitable for all ages that will make a difference. 

"My favorite part was that kids were able to run around, dance, and be their silly selves," Butler said. "Everyone was extremely friendly and had a smile on their face throughout the whole day. It was just an all around great atmosphere." 

Three bands performed — J Santi & The Vital Groove, Sweet Fleet, and Hell on Heels.

Lakewood Ranch's Kai Adkins plays bass for Sweet Fleet and Hell on Heels. He said it was great to see so many local businesses and breweries come together for the cause. 

"My favorite part of this whole thing is having people enjoy something that I am passionate about and have dedicated lots of time to," Adkins said. "Seeing people show up to support this is a very rewarding feeling."

Sarasota's John J. Santiago of Santi & The Vital Groove said being able to perform for the event was "brilliant and beautiful." 

"I have a masters degree in school psychology and deeply believe that youth in need of speech pathology or other special needs should be a priority for us as a society," Santiago said.

Cynthia Fonceca, the director of My Hometown Fest, said she fell in love with Sertoma Kids and the services it provides when she was a volunteer at My Hometown Fest last year. 

She was especially inspired by Self.

"He just put so much love into this event," Fonceca said. "Now that I know him, I know he does that with everything," Fonceca said. "Everyone loves him and I aspire to be like that. I want to give back and be of service." 

Self said he knows the event is in good hands.

"I've always thought a measure of success is "Does it live beyond the creator?" and clearly it has," Self said. 

Self said the nonprofit is looking for members and volunteers. For more information, visit SertomaSarasota.org/ and SertomaKids.org/.