CFY was officially chartered as a nonprofit organization by the State of Florida in February 1972 but was active in the community organizing youth athletic programming for 6 years prior. The 52nd anniversary celebration was an opportunity to pay homage to the growth of the organization, transitioning from the role of organizer to funder and facilitator in recent years while expanding beyond Clearwater’s city limits to serve youth across Pinellas County. The event raised over $200,000 in support of CFY initiatives.
The evening’s program, emceed by Fox 13’s Russell Rhodes, featured awards presented to Pinellas County Countryside Jr. Cougars Youth Football and Cheer Organization, recipient of the Karen Aungst Coaching Inspiration Award. The Karen Aungst Youth Coaching and Inspiration Award is a $2,500 stipend to a CFY sponsored organization to provide enhanced coaching training for coaches to increase their focus on using sports to teach life lessons. The Countryside Jr. Cougars provide programming for over 300 children ages 5-14. The funds will be used to pay for additional USA Football training for 75 football and cheer coaches. This will enhance their skills and interaction with the youth they serve that CFY supports. Brian Aungst Sr., on behalf of the late Karen Aungst, presented the award.
In memory of our founder and long-time advocate of water safety, CFY recognized the late Fred Fisher by renaming the water safety initiative in his honor. Fred’s widow Aleta Fisher and his daughter Paige Simpson were part of the celebration ceremony for the renaming. Along with all our community partners, we strive to make a difference in today’s youth with these life-saving skills.
Beyond the honored guests, the event was highlighted by an impressive display of seafood on ice, whole roasted pig and salted rocked baked gulf grouper, and more culinary delights curated by the Sheraton Sand Key as guests mingled through sunset on Clearwater’s trademark powder white sands.
Supporters can expect Banquet on the Beach to return each spring (the 2025 date is April 26) as CFY’s principal annual fundraiser supporting the mission of elevating the youth of Pinellas County through access to skill building programs where children of all backgrounds can learn, play, and grow together. For more information on partnering with CFY please visit our website at www.cfypinellas.org
