Wrapping up toys as we wrap up the year!

The year is drawing to a close, and it has been a very exciting one!

First, we want to give a HUGE thank you to everyone who attended our Toys for Tots events. We collected over 100 toys, and that's not including the toy bins still at all of our toy drive locations! If you missed out on the charity poker tournament or the Gainesville "Gifts" Back benefit show, no worries! You can still make the holiday season brighter for a local child by donating a new, unwrapped toy at any of the properties listed on ApartmentsinGainesville.com. The toy drive will end on December 15th.

So you might be wondering, what is there to look forward to now? Besides the holidays and all the delicious things that come with them, the start of a new year kicks off a whole new round of events! The first will be "Taking it off for charity,"  a strip poker tournament on January 22nd. Don't worry...not all the layers are allowed to come off! This event supports a clothing drive for St. Francis House, a very deserving charity that aids the homeless and is crucial during the frosty winter.

In February, you can make your dog's tail go crazy with the Kanapaha 5K-9, a 5K that will lead you and your dog through the UF campus. The money raised will be given to the Alachua County Humane Society to purchase food, supplies, and make sure all those happy hounds can find a home!

Other spring events include a Pledge 5 golf tournament and public service drive and, of course, Gator Stompin'. Please continue to check the blog and become a fan on Facebook to get all the updates! You can also follow us on Twitter.

My last announcement is for any students at the University of Florida or Santa Fe Community College who are looking for an amazing spring internship! The Pledge 5 Foundation will be hosting an Intern Mixer at Sharab Lounge on Wednesday, December 8th to not only show appreciation for the fall interns, but also provide information for potential new interns! Enjoy free food and drinks and learn about the following internship openings:

Event Management - Public Relations - Graphic Design - Web Design - Marketing - Advertising, Videography - Photography - Public Service

See the Facebook event page for more information!

I hope you have enjoyed the blog because I certainly have had a lot of fun writing it! This is my final blog post on behalf of Pledge 5, so thank you for for reading and I hope you continue to do so. Happy holidays, everyone. Please remember to give more than just gifts this season--get out there and make a change in your community!


--Jenna Hankins
The Pledge 5 Foundation

Behind the talent of Gainesville "Gifts" Back

With only two days remaining until Gainesville "Gifts" Back, there is a lot of excitement not only among the Pledge 5 team but also among our performers! In order to help you get to know these talented people and groups a little better, this post contains short bios and clips of performances by each one. I hope you enjoy it and choose to come out to the Venue this Thursday to show your support for both our performers and Toys for Tots! Be sure to bring that new, unwrapped toy donation for free admission!

In order of performance (contests in between!):

Tim Keck
Tim Keck began performing stand-up comedy in 2009.  His first time on stage was the opening round of the National College Comedy Competition, where he placed high enough to make it to the next round and earn a spot on the University of Florida’s stand-up comedy team.  Tim help the University of Florida make it to the final four of the NCAA and as a result was invited to perform in The Aspen Rooftop Comedy Festival, 2009.
In 2010 Tim Keck and the University of Florida’s stand-up comedy team won the National College Comedy Competition and were once again invited to perform in The Aspen Rooftop Comedy Festival, 2010.
Tim Keck is the president of the University Stand-Up Comedy Club where he teaches UF students how to write and perform stand-up comedy.
Tim Keck is a member of Theatre Strike Force, the University of Florida’s premier improv comedy troupe.  He regularly performs with their Harold team, Delta Group.

Rudy Mendoza

Far Away Planes

The rock quartet, Far Away Planes, formed in August of 2010. The band hales from Gainesville, Florida and consists of John Ketcham (guitar/vocals), Tim Anderson (bass/vocals), Kevin Biegler (drums), and Sean O’Brien (vocals/guitar/keys). Their musical style is linked to the indie-dance-rock genre, with its catchy melodies and dancey drum beats. Each member has a unique musical background and a diverse list of musical influences. That formula, in turn, creates the distinctive sound of Far Away Planes.
Musical Influences: Foals, Minus the Bear, Bloc Party, As Tall As Lions, Kings of Leon

Andrew Duvall

Andrew Duvall was raised by a pack of wolves in the back ally streets of Toronto, Canada. He was then traded to human captivity where he began his life journey as an outcast. At a young age, he learned to solace the victims of his awkwardness with hysterical laughter. By the time he entered high school, Andrew acquired the clairvoyant power of forcing any human he encountered to involuntarily excrete liquid from their bladder.
After high school, Andrew entered the comedy club scene and was branded the moniker Andrew Duvall, “The Canadian Mind Grenade” – an accurate depiction of the awkward, hysterical and mind-blisteringly hilarious explosion that occurs every time he takes the stage.
With his unique, impossible-to-replicate stand-up style, Andrew Duvall is making his mark on the comedy world one stage at a time.

the top physicians

the top physicians are a local indie/rock band who just love sharing emotions with others. Since January, the guys have been crafting tunes that stem from love, heartache, bitterness and acceptance. By combining these all-too-real feelings with catchy pop melodies, the top physicians create a sound that resonates with everyone.

http://www.myspace.com/thetopphysicians

 

JC Currais
JC is originally from Miami FL and currently lives in Gainesville, FL. Has been performing stand up comedy for over 2 years and has performed all over the Southeast.

Click for JC Currais on Facebook

Tom Sartori
Since Tom Sartori was 11 years old he has been passionate about music. He grew up in a musically gifted family, and learned to play the guitar, piano, trumpet, and drums at an early age. In recent years, Tom has been touring all over the world, sharing the stage with big names such as Meatloaf, Sister Hazel, Cheap Trick, Josh Kelley, 98 degrees, Reel Big Fish, and Chuck Berry.

Come out THIS Thursday, December 2nd to support all this amazing talent AND Toys for Tots! The show begins at 10 PM and doors open at 9:30 PM. Bring an unwrapped toy donation for FREE admission!

See you there!

-The Pledge 5 Team

5 fantastic reasons to attend Gainesville "Gifts" Back!

Hello, again!

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! While the Pledge 5 office was closed, we've been keeping busy on our Facebook page and Twitter. Follow the links to see posts and updates about all the acts featured in the Gainesville "Gifts" Back benefit show and fun Toy Tidbits in support for Toys for Tots. Pledge 5 is taking the stage on December 2nd at the Venue in downtown Gainesville to help collect toys donations for Toys for Toys! Maybe you've seen one of our updates, taken note of a tweet, or read a previous blog post and are not yet convinced that you should give up your Thursday night to join us. If that's the case, keep reading! Here are the top 5 reasons you should join us at Gainesville "Gifts" Back.

5. Free t-shirts. Don't lie to me...everyone loves a free t-shirt! The first 100 guests to arrive will receive a free t-shirt, courtesy of ApartmentsinGainesville.com, the premiere website for apartment hunting in Gainesville. Doors will open at 8:30, so get there early. This event may only last one night, but show your support for Toys for Tots all year by wearing your Gainesville "Gifts" Back t-shirt!

4.  Plenty of contests and chances to win! You didn't think we would let all the audience members just stand there and do nothing, did you? Throughout the evening we will have various holiday contests that are sure to provide a little comic relief...and make it onto YouTube, thanks to your best friend. The good news, however, is you could win one of hundreds of dollars worth of prizes! The contests are:

The Jingle Bells FreeStyle Caroling gets creative
The 30-second Interpretive Dance Challenge Let the joy of the season move you...literally.
The Human Christmas Tree Always shine your brightest.

3. Help your community by taking the Pledge! By attending Gainesville "Gifts" Back, you're becoming an active member of your community. This entire benefit show is in honor of Toys for Tots, and is one of the many events the Pledge 5 Foundation hosts throughout the year. Each event supports a different local charity and seeks to raise awareness of not only the need for volunteers, but their power to make a difference in the lives of others. Come out and hear more about Pledge 5 and get a head start on your pledge for the upcoming new year! Haven't yet taken the pledge to donate 5 hours to public service? Join our cause on Facebook and help make a change in your community!

2. Support local talent. Like holiday gifts, our performers come in all different packages. Some are young, some are musicians, and some are comedians. No matter what gets your toes tapping or face smiling, we guarantee you will enjoy the show! All of our performers have agreed to take part sans pay in order to support Toys for Tots, and the least we can do is support these local groups in return.

Musical performances by:

Tom Sartori, top recording artist

the top physicians, Gainesville's favorite indie rockers (Check them out on Gooveshark!)

Far Away Planes, a local group soaring to the top!

Comedians include the funniest North Florida has to offer:

Tim Keck, Rudy Mendoza, JC Currais and Andrew Duvall!

1. Support Toys for Tots. Few would argue that Toys for Tots is an undeserving charity. As of 2009, the Toys for Tots program has collected and distributed over 500 million toys! Even better is that all the toys remain in the area that conducted the toy drive. What exactly does this mean? All of the toys donations you help raise will go directly toward making this a brighter holiday season for children in the Gainesville area! Donation bins are located at all properties listed on ApartmentsinGainesville.com. We will also be collecting toys in Turlington Plaza on the UF campus from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 29th and Wednesday, December 1st. Just look for the Santa Clause! All toys need to be new and unwrapped. Bring a toy to Gainesville "Gifts" Back and receive FREE ADMISSION!

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If my list doesn't have you ready to get up and go this Thursday to Gainesville "Gifts" Back, I don't know what will! We truly hope to see you there, it is going to be a spectacular night!

-The Pledge 5 Team

Giving back in Gainesville

As the temperature and leaves begin to fall around Gainesville, many residents are hustling to hang festive decorations, stock up on holiday fixings and children are making their wish lists. These next two months are the favorite time of year for many. However, for those in need these chilly night can be the worst. I wanted to devote this blog to local organizations that do a little something extra to make the holiday season bright for everyone, whether it's making sure no one goes hungry for the holidays or that children are able to receive gifts.

Bread of the Mighty Food Bank
Each holiday season, Bread of the Mighty prepares holiday baskets filled with all of the traditional fixings needed for a delicious meal. BOTM is in need of both food donations (such as boxed stuffing, corn, rice and canned vegetables) and volunteers to help organize the food.  Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 325 NW 10th Ave. For more information call 336-0839 or visit www.breadofthemighty.org.


Salvation Army of Gainesville
During the holiday season, the Salvation Army is usually associated with the ringing of bells in front of local businesses. However, be sure not to overlook the other successful program--Salvation Army Angel Trees. In Gainesville trees are located in the J.C. Penney at the Oaks Mall, Walmart and Kmart stores. By adopting one or more of the "angels," you can donate toys to children who might not receive gifts otherwise.


14th Annual Holiday Traditions: A Musical Celebration to help STOP! Children’s Cancer
On December 12th, head out to the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 4:00 p.m. to enjoy a musical show supporting STOP! Children's Cancer, Inc. This organization works to prevent, control, and cure cancer in children. Tickets for the concert are $12 for adults, $6 for children under 12.

Haven Hospice of Florida: Kid's Holiday Shopping Night at the Attic

Created for children in need, the Haven Hospice Kids' Holiday Shopping Night at the Attic gives children the opportunity to purchase gifts for free for family members using “Attic Bucks.” Festivities will include gift wrapping, photos with Santa, punch and cookies—all free of charge. Haven Hospice is in need of donations of gift wraps, cookies, and punch by the first week in December. Last year 400 children attended, so this is a great event to help with! For more information visit www.havenhospice.org.



Children's Home Society of Florida
The Children's Home Society of Florida will be offering affordable gifts at their thrift shop, and is in need of toys for all ages, clothing, and any school supplies. Sixty volunteers are needed to help operate the thrift store and another 15 are needed to help sort out gift donations for their toy drive. More information can be found at www.cshfl.org.


Junior League of Gainesville: Winter Wonderland shopping eventThe Junior League of Gainesville, is a local organization that helps women in the community. This holiday season it is hosting its Winter Wonderland shopping event at its thrift shop, which will allow families to shop for gift items while their children are entertained with holiday activities. The Junior League is looking for gift items such as candles, jewelry, purses, clothing and toys, as well as craft supplies and gift wrap and will need them prior to the day of the event on December 8th. Proceeds from the Winter Wonderland event benefit other Junior League projects, including the Miracle on Main Street toy and bike giveaway, the Read with Me literacy project and Kids in the Kitchen healthy eating program. More information at www.gainesvillejrleague.org.

Home Van Pet Care Project
As the season takes a chilly turn, be sure to remember not only the local homeless, but their pets! The Home Van Pet Care Project delivers food, toys, and treats to local dogs and cats. They are in need of food donations and also anyone willing to deliver these donations to animals in the area and/or help take pets and their owners to veterinary clinics. For more information, contact Elizabeth Howard at holisticliz@hotmail.com




Toys for Tots
Last but not least is the Toys for Tots charity, which is the organization Pledge 5 is supporting with our upcoming Gainesville "Gifts" Back benefit show. On December 2nd, you can join us at The Warehouse in downtown Gainesville for a night of local musicians, comedians, dancers and contests. Free admission with a toy donation! Performers include Tom Sartori, the Top Physicians, Far Away Planes, and top competitive dance team i.dance. Our featured comedians are Tim Keck, Rudy Mendoza and JC Currais. Contests include the Jingle Bells FreeStyle, Holiday Interpretive Dance Contest, Human Christmas Tree Contest, and a Furby Impression Contest! So grab a friend and grab a toy, sit back and enjoy the show!

See you there,
The Pledge 5 Team

Ante up and rock out for Toys for Tots!

With the holidays quickly approaching, it's all about the toys! Between your favorite classics and the many new varieties offered today, toys have always brought smiles to children's faces. However, for many kids there is not a lot to hope for as parents struggle in this difficult time to make ends meet. This is where Pledge 5 and the Toys for Tots charity step in! With two main events and collection bins in many locations, Pledge 5 is hosting its annual toy drive. Toys for Tots ensures that the toys collected stay within the community hosting the drive, so the more toys that are donated, the brighter Gainesville will be this holiday season!

Do you like to play poker? Then join Pledge 5 at the Ocala Poker Room this Sunday, November 21st and gamble for good in Pledge 5's annual Toys for Tots Poker Tournament! Buy-in costs $45 plus an unwrapped toy donation.The first 50 to register will receive a free t-shirt, courtesy of ApartmentsinGainesville.com .   Register today!

Another way to support for Toys for Tots is to make some noise at the Gainesville "Gifts" Back benefit show on December 2nd! Taking place at the Venue in downtown Gainesville, this event will feature local bands, comedians and dancers. Performers include Tom Sartori, the Top Physicians, Hip Hop Collective, Tim Keck and JC Currais. There will be plenty of chances to win during our festive contests, too! The four contests are the Jingle Bells FreeStyle, Holiday Interpretive Dance Contest, Human Christmas Tree Decorating Contest, and a Furby Impression Contest. Bring an unwrapped toy donation for free admission. Doors open at 8:30 and the first 100 guests will receive a free t-shirt! Get home safely with the Safe Ride Program provided by Carey Meldon of the Law Offices of Jeffrey Meldon and Associates.

Read more about The Pledge 5 Foundation and the annual Toys for Tots toy drive in the article published by Community Good Life Magazine. Please donate an unwrapped toy to any of the Pledge 5 collection bins!

--The Pledge 5 Team

A big THANK YOU to our sponsors!

ApartmentsinGainesville.com
The Law Office of Jeffrey Meldon & Associates
Planet Beach
Monster Energy
Mamma Mia
Hampton Inn & Suites
Gainesville Health and Fitness
Domino's
The Independent Florida Alligator
The Gainesville Sun
KISS 105
Star 99.5
Smooth FM 100.9
105 The Game