In the spirit of resilience and connection, Sanibel will host a special weekend gathering to honor the island’s journey and the unbreakable bonds of its community. Originally postponed due to Hurricane Helene, this upcoming event not only celebrates the Love Sanibel Businesses Back initiative but also marks a significant milestone in the community’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ian.
Event Highlights
Date & Venue
When: Saturday, November 3, from noon to 3 p.m.
Where: The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Cost: Free and open to the public
The event, organized by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, will gather residents and visitors alike to commemorate Sanibel’s resilience and the love that has fueled the island’s healing. Reflecting on two years of restoration since Hurricane Ian, The Rev. William “Bill” Van Oss, rector of Saint Michael, shared that the gathering is intended as a celebration of progress and community spirit.
A Joyful and Uplifting Gathering
Church Director of Digital Communications, Sue Van Oss, emphasized that this year’s event aims to be joyous, focused on positive memories and progress. She notes that many islanders still carry the trauma of 2022, and this event will serve as a healing experience, celebrating the power of community love.
Sue also highlights that the gathering will close the church’s Love Sanibel Businesses Back campaign, which encouraged support for local businesses rebuilding after the storms. “Love is powerful,” she says, “and it has helped our island heal.”
Special Program & Activities
From 1 to 1:30 p.m., guests will enjoy a special program with remarks from Sanibel Mayor Richard Johnson, City Councilmember Holly Smith, and music by The Rev. Suzy Post and Erik Entwistle. The Sanibel School’s Elementary Choir will perform, and the event will close with a heartwarming video titled Love Letters to Sanibel, featuring snippets from islanders sharing personal reflections on their love for the community.
The day will also be packed with activities for all ages:
- Craft Tables: Kids and adults alike can join in crafting with the Shellcrafters, who will teach participants to make shell flowers.
- Photo Booth: A professional booth will capture memories, offering photo strips and digital images for attendees to take home.
- Community Booths: Local organizations, including FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, Kiwanis Club, and Rotary Club, will share their contributions and upcoming initiatives.
- Free Treats: Enjoy free hot dogs, ice cream, and snacks courtesy of The Island Store, Pinocchio’s, and HMSHost.
Grand Prizes & Door Prizes
With over 80 door prizes donated by local businesses, attendees have the chance to win exclusive giveaways, including:
- A two-night stay and dining experience at ‘Tween Waters Resort & Spa,
- A handcrafted Sanibel Strong pendant from Congress Jewelers,
- A private family session from the Sanibel Sea School.
Love Sanibel Back Weekend Cleanup
In collaboration with the city and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), the weekend will also include a Love Sanibel Back Cleanup on Friday, November 2, from 9 to 11 a.m. Volunteers will assist in removing debris and restoring dune habitats, furthering the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Though registration is now full, this cleanup demonstrates the community’s dedication to preserving Sanibel’s natural beauty.
For more details about the Love Sanibel Community Gathering or to volunteer in future community efforts, visit saintmichaels-sanibel.org or call 239-472-2173.
This weekend offers a beautiful opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate the resilience and love that have sustained Sanibel’s community through challenges. Join us to honor the spirit of Sanibel and share in the joy of moving forward, together.
