Starting a new nonprofit with lofty goals of helping the community is never smooth sailing. FLoatarama may have had it a little easier because they had no idea they were starting a nonprofit with a signature event until they were well into the process.
Improbable? Yes. Impossible? No!
FLoatarama started as a pandemic band-aid to compensate for the loss of pride parties in 2020. It has grown organically, and now prepares for its fifth boat parade through Fort Lauderdale and up the intracoastal.
Now it is getting recognition from Our Fund Foundation, the gold standard for LGBTQ stewardship in South Florida. At the 2024 LGBTQ Philanthropy Awards at the Broward Center on Feb. 3, FLoatarama will receive the Next Generation Philanthropy Award.
The prize shines a spotlight on nonprofits that stand out as models of philanthropy and volunteering.
“FLoatarama’s model to engage younger donors epitomizes what we are trying to do with this award,” Our Fund CEO David Jobin said. “Their events are filled with generous community members who don’t necessarily fit the older demographic we associate with LGBTQ philanthropy. But FLoatarama is changing that, and our community will benefit in the future because of their work.”
After a successful flotilla in 2020, founders decided to take it the next level and make it more than a party on the water. In addition to their signature event, they do smaller parties throughout the year to raise money and awareness.
“People have a great time at our events. We raise, and grant out, a significant amount of money. We find it so rewarding that we’re introducing new people to philanthropy in a very positive way,” FLoatarama President Scott Schramm said.
FLoatarama has partnered with Our Fund since their beginning. They’ve given money to dozens of organizations, including South Florida Youth Pride Band, Stonewall National Museum, Thinking Cap Theater, and more.
Tickets to the 2024 LGBTQ Philanthropy Awards are on sale now cost $75. Jobin stresses this is a party, not a fundraiser. Most of the night will be food, cocktails, and socializing. There is no auction or a big “ask.” The only thing you're asked to give is your enthusiasm.