The Serving Spoon in Southside Village has become a favorite gathering spot for Sarasota Police Officers—a welcoming place to connect over coffee and breakfast. It’s also a regular meeting place for Sarasota Police Foundation (SPF) board members, who use the space to discuss community initiatives and ways to support local law enforcement.

The Sarasota Police Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by seven volunteer board members. Its mission is to provide support and assistance to the Sarasota Police Department (SPD), as well as to sworn officers and civilian staff. SPF raises funds to help the SPD achieve important goals that may not be covered in the city budget or that benefit from additional funding.

SPF-supported initiatives have included special equipment purchases, advanced training, youth outreach, and officer safety and wellness programs. Over the years, the Foundation has provided personal protective gear, funded youth initiatives, recognized outstanding officers, and assisted staff affected by storm damage.

In 2024 alone, SPF distributed more than $60,000 in emergency relief to officers and staff whose homes were damaged by hurricanes—while they continued serving the community. SPF has also funded a dedicated van for the Police Explorers Program, which introduces young people to careers in law enforcement. Building on that commitment to youth engagement, the Foundation is also supporting the completion of the Youth Education Technology Trailer—a mobile classroom the Sarasota Police Department’s Community Relations Unit will use for tutoring and other student outreach programs.

The Sarasota Police Foundation will also be providing meals in 2026 for student athletes and SPD officers who are participating in the Urban Edge Program, led by Coach Urban Meyer.  The purpose of this program is to partner SPD officers with high school athletes to teach conflict resolution, financial literacy, communication, and leadership. By mentoring students, officers help foster positive relationships and build future community leaders.

SPF also continues to fund advanced officer training, such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which provides safer options for handling resistant suspects and helps reduce use-of-force incidents and injuries.

The Sarasota Police Foundation’s annual fundraiser, The Blue and White Gala, will be held on January 31, 2026, from 6:00–10:00 p.m. at Michael’s On East.