CPPI gift boosts Fishing for Kids fundraising total to $100,000
A new gift from Charles Perry Partners, Inc. (CPPI) brings the total raised by the 2025 Fishing for Kids Saltwater Trout Tournament to a whopping $100,000 in support of CMN Hospitals at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. The record-breaking announcement was made during a special check presentation on Thursday, June 26, at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital.
In celebration of the tournament’s most successful year yet, CPPI generously made an additional $17,000 donation.
“We recognize and are moved by the hard work of the Fishing for Kids committee, and the impact this event has on young patients at UF Health Shands,” said Brian Leslie, president and principal of CPPI.
Fishing for Kids began two decades ago with the dream of making a tangible difference in children’s lives. A passionate group of UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital facilities personnel came together to lead the effort.
Through their philanthropy they have raised over $400,000. Beyond the numbers, this dedicated and generous group has given hope to patients and their families by supporting critical advancements in pediatric research, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and family-centered services.
“Since joining UF Health in March, I have seen how deeply this community rallies behind our mission and invests in helping us move medicine forward,” said Michael Holmes, UF Health senior vice president and Gainesville regional president.
The 20th annual Fishing for Kids tournament was held in April at the Sea Hag Marina in Steinhatchee, Fla. A record 109 boats full of anglers enjoyed a weekend of fishing, food, and prizes that raised a remarkable $83,000.
“The tournament continues to grow in both size and impact,” said Bobby Baird, facilities director at UF Health Shands. “We are incredibly thankful for the generosity of participants, sponsors, and donors who believe in making a difference.”
CPPI is a professional general contracting, design-build and construction management firm that believes in giving back to the communities they serve. One of their core values is stewardship, and the employees of CPPI participate regularly in events throughout all the communities that they live and work in.