PASSING THE GAVEL
Pine Island FISH’s board recently appointed Jim Wentz as FISH’s new President. Jim, an active volunteer since 2019, is a man of many talents. He has served on FISH’s board of directors and as FISH secretary, managed and maintained FISH’s store of mobility equipment, and provided his legendary crab dip as a give-away for volunteer-recruitment events. He replaces Guy Vaughan, a long-time volunteer who served as president since 2021. Guy, who led Pine Island FISH during recent turbulent times with great skill, dedication, and optimism, is planning a move away from our islands. We welcome Jim into his new role and are incredibly grateful for all Guy has done for our organization.
Who We Are
Who We Are
Who We Are
Pine Island FISH is an all-volunteer association of neighbors organized to help those living in the Matlacha and Pine Island Communities. From its early beginnings in the 1980s, Pine Island FISH has grown to an organization of more than 40 volunteer members, including those who return to the "northern climes" during the summer season.
We continue to recruit new members to our organization. Members meet monthly and the Board of Directors quarterly or as needed to discuss financial matters and set organization policy. We work closely with other organizations on the island, such as the Beacon of Hope, Pine Island United Methodist Church, Matlacha Hookers and Pine Island Pantry, to assure the needs of our islanders are met.
What We Do
Who We Are
Who We Are
Pine Island FISH is grateful to be able to offer the following services:
- Non-emergency transportation to medical facilities, grocery stores, pharmacy, bank, etc. to those with no access to transportation.
- Mobility equipment lending: wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
- Assistance with special needs: emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, medical costs, etc.
- Respite information for family caregivers and a list of providers that serve our island communities.
- Lead Agency in the Pine Island “Basket Brigade” Programs, providing new clothing at the start of the school year and holiday gifts.
There is never any charge for FISH services.
Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteer
There are many ways that you can work to make a difference through Pine Island FISH and FISH is pleased to count many seasonal residents among its volunteers. FISH is seeking:
- Volunteer drivers for necessary non-emergency weekday transportation, both on and off the island.
- Phone volunteers to answer the FISH line. Phone volunteers work one day per week for a month.
- Volunteers to stay in touch with home-bound islanders.
- Volunteers to provide respite relief for non-paid primary caregivers for approximately 4 hours once a week.
- Volunteers to help with FISH's mobility equipment lending closet.
- Volunteers for special events such as fundraisers and basket brigades.
Donate
Volunteer
Volunteer
There are several ways you can support FISH.
- Make a financial contribution. All contributions are tax deductible and go directly to helping your neighbors. Go to our donation page to make a secure online donation or download a contribution form and make a donation by mail.
- Support FISH with a fundraiser at your school, club or association. Please consider FISH when planning for ways that your group might help others on our Islands.
- Shop at Amazon SMILES when you shop online.