FISH Foundation News

FISH of SanCap announced the Maggi Feiner Presidential Endowment Fund to assure sustainable leadership for the organization. ”I’m not going anywhere,” smiled Feiner, a 17-year FISH volunteer now serving as President and CEO. “But I fully support the organization’s plans for the future.”

“Maggi brings not only leadership, but passion and commitment to the role of President and CEO,” said John Morse, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva Foundation Chair. “The purpose of the Maggi Feiner Fund is to enable the organization to acquire and sustain these powerful qualities over the long term.”

“The board wants to assure the viability of this vital organization,” explained Feiner. “As an agency playing a central role in social services on the island, FISH needs the infrastructure to be confident in both financial and leadership stability. That’s where the endowment comes in.”

Over the course of 39 years, FISH has evolved to keep up with the needs of the community and live up to its slogan Neighbors Helping Neighbors. “With the recession of 2007, we opened the first office and launched a major growth initiative,” continued Feiner.  In following years, under Feiner’s leadership, a continuing stream of projects followed, including the food bank, social workers on staff, the purchase of the current building, and a broad range of programs. “Although the operation is constantly changing, the purpose is consistent,” she added. “We meet the ever-changing ever-growing needs of the community.”

“My vision is that no one on the islands will go unsupported when in need,” continued Feiner. “Counting clients, volunteers, and contributors, I believe FISH has touched 90% of those who live and work on the islands or their families. Plus, many visitors have been supported in emergencies.”

Much of the organization’s impact today is attributable to Feiner’s leadership during the last decade as President and CEO. But she credits the community. “I’m inspired by the community,” Feiner declared. “The people here represent all walks of life, but when it comes down to a problem, this island pulls together. My passion for FISH is inspired by the generous community, the volunteers, and our staff.”

“I may step down from an executive role someday, but I doubt I will ever stay home,” concluded Feiner. “I’ll stay with the organization as a volunteer for as long as I can make a difference.”

To support the endowment fund designed to sustain leadership at the level personified by Feiner, reach out to John Morse, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva Foundation Chair at info@fishofsancap.org or find out more about giving at https://fishofsancap.org . Donations can be made to FISH of Sanibel-Captiva Foundation, Inc.  To investigate volunteer activities, especially needed over the summer months, contact Maria Espinoza, Asst. Executive Director, or Jennifer Pagano, Walk-in Center Manager, at info@fishofsancap.org .