Our 2026 Charities
BBQ Love Fest is more than a good time, it’s a philanthropic event that supports FARA (Friedriech’s Ataxia Research Alliance) and other meaningful causes in our community.
What is FA? Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a debilitating, life-shortening, degenerative neuro-muscular disorder. About one in 50,000 people in the United States has Friedreich’s ataxia. It is estimated there are 4,000 individuals affected with FA in the U.S., and 15,000 affected individuals worldwide. Most individuals have onset of symptoms of FA between 15 and 18 year of age. FARA is supporting research that will improve the quality and length of life for those diagnosed with Friedreich’s ataxia and will lead to treatments that eliminate its symptoms.
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Operation BBQ Relief utilizes a fleet of cooks, mobile pits, kitchens, and volunteers to provide the restorative benefits of BBQ during times of crisis. They provide food to First Repsonders and Communities affected by natural disasters, as well as working year-round to combat hunger through initiatives like THE ALWAYS SERVING PROJECT® and CAMP OBR™ PROGRAMS.
Special Operations Memorial Foundation honors the legacy of America’s Special Operations Forces by preserving their history and paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and service of these elite warriors. Through memorials, educational initiatives, and community engagement, the Foundation ensures that the stories of Special Operations heroes are remembered and their families are supported for generations to come.
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Feeding Tampa Bay is the largest hunger-relief organization in West Central Florida, serving a 10-county region with a mission to end hunger by providing food, support, and hope to neighbors in need. Through a network of over 400 local charities and community partners, Feeding Tampa Bay distributes more than 85 million meals annually while also addressing the root causes of hunger through programs in education, employment, health, and financial stability.