Sarasota Alliance Adopted Three-Year Strategic Plan

The nonprofit organization aims to professionalize its staff by hiring its first full-time executive director.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Philanthropy

Sarasota Alliance Adopted Three-Year Strategic Plan

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In your area, do you believe local preservation groups effectively balance growth with protecting historic sites?

On July 15, 2026, the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation formally adopted a new three-year strategic plan. This roadmap marks a shift for the 41-year-old organization as it moves from an all-volunteer board toward professional staffing.

Why it matters

The strategic plan serves as a blueprint to strengthen the organization and expand its preservation reach across Sarasota County. This transition is supported by targeted financial backing intended to build operational capacity.

The nonprofit has secured $47,500 in total grants since 2023, including a recent $7,500 matching Capacity Building Grant. This funding supports the organization as it evolves from its founding structure established in 1985.

The players

Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation

This 41-year-old nonprofit is dedicated to the historic preservation of sites within Sarasota County.

Erin DiFazio

She serves as the managing director of the Sarasota Preservation Program.

The details

The plan was developed through a collaborative effort involving staff, donors, community partners, and board members. The organization is actively seeking to recruit new volunteers and board members to bolster its expanded operational goals.

1985: The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation was incorporated.
2023: The foundation began awarding grants to the organization.
July 15, 2026: The board formally adopted the three-year strategic plan.

Market Landscape

The organization's strategic plan formalizes its participation in the broader sector-wide shift toward professionalized management models. By moving away from an all-volunteer board, the alliance aims to better compete for resources and advocacy influence in the local preservation landscape.

Residents and donors can expect more structured community outreach and expanded engagement opportunities as the alliance scales its operations. The shift toward a full-time executive director model is intended to provide consistent leadership for ongoing preservation initiatives.

The takeaway

The adoption of a strategic plan marks a significant milestone in the organizational life cycle of this local nonprofit. Smaller community groups often reach a point where professional leadership is necessary to sustain long-term historical conservation efforts.