Community Day School Receives Support from Pat and Charlene Neal

August 4, 2021 – Sarasota

Hershorin Schiff Community Day School, a Sarasota-based private Jewish day school serving children of all faiths in preschool through eighth grade, has received a generous gift from area philanthropists Charlene and Pat Neal in support of the school’s “Owning Our Future” campaign. The ongoing $12 million “Owning Our Future” campaign has funded the recent construction of two new buildings as well as renovations to existing facilities on the school’s brand-new campus in Central Sarasota and will assist with ongoing capital and annual needs over the next five years.

“Neal Communities is committed to building communities, not just constructing homes,” said Pat Neal. “The company and the people who work here are dedicated personally and professionally to the ongoing success of our communities, including the neighborhoods, their schools and the services that help make life here wonderful.”

Campaign co-chair Darren Saltzberg and Pat Neal, CEO of Lakewood Ranch-based Neal Communities, both work in the home building space; the two have forged a connection over the years.

“Although we may compete in the business world, we both value our personal commitment to the community,” said Saltzberg. “Supporting Community Day’s future is a transformative investment for many generations to come.”

Charlene and Pat Neal are philanthropists who believe in reinvesting in their community. Over the past decade, Pat and Neal Communities have contributed more than $10 million in support of local community organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Women’s Resource Center, 4-H, Child Protection Center, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of both Manatee and Sarasota.

Community Day School, which has attracted attention from communities across the country interested in learning more about its operations, is noted for its unique educational model that combines a global vision, religious and cultural diversity, project-based learning, small class sizes, service learning, and community partnerships. Community Day will welcome 270 students to its new campus in mid-August for the 2021-2022 school year.

“This will be a permanent contribution to the kids, education, the community, and the idea of combining faith, freedom, values, and culture with the education of our young people,” Pat Neal said.

For more about Community Day School or to learn how to get involved with the “Owning Our Future” campaign, go to communityday.org or call 941-552-2770.