Gulf Breeze Will Do (GBWD), a women’s philanthropic organization, has officially opened its 2026 grant cycle. Local nonprofits, schools, and community groups serving Gulf Breeze and Pensacola Beach (zip codes 32561 and 32563) are invited to apply for grant funding now through September 1.
Since its founding in 2014, Gulf Breeze Will Do has awarded more than $543,000 to projects and initiatives that make a measurable impact in the community.
“Every year, we’re moved by how clearly the grant proposals shine a light on real needs within our community — many of which aren’t always visible to the general public,” said Leslie Perino, president of GBWD. “It’s incredibly meaningful for our members to help meet those needs and make a tangible impact, right here at home.”
Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and are available in five categories:
1. Art, Recreation & Sports
2. Education
3. Hardship Support Services
4. Public Safety
5. Environment
Applications and guidelines are available at GulfBreezeWillDo.org. Grant recipients will be announced in November 2026.
Recent Grant Highlights (2025)
Gulf Breeze Will Do’s 2025 grant recipients reflect the wide variety of needs being met through community-driven solutions, including:
• ARC Gateway – Santa Rosa Adult Day Center Sensory Room ($4,080)
• Bee Brave A Braylen Foundation – Adaptive equipment for disabled children ($5,000)
• Dr. Laura J. Burke and Ms. Sarah Kawell: The Meow Mission – Trapping equipment to help control feral cat populations ($5,809)
• Gulf Breeze High School Baseball Boosters – Training equipment ($9,863)
• Gulf Breeze Middle School – Positive behavior postcards ($1,353)
• Gulf Breeze Police Department – Replacing four aging AED devices for patrol cars ($7,044)
• Oriole Beach Elementary School – Furniture for an outdoor learning environment ($1,301)
• Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce – AED for Visitor Center ($1,809)
• Santa Rosa Education Foundation – Full college scholarship for a local at-risk, low-income student ($8,011)
• Tax Mavens, Inc – Santa Rosa VITA Support – equipment to aid in free tax preparation services ($1,341)
Membership Makes It Possible
Gulf Breeze Will Do is powered entirely by its members—women who each contribute $250 annually, with 100% of dues distributed directly to grant recipients. Every member has an equal vote in selecting which projects receive funding.
The deadline to become a 2026 voting member is September 30. Join today at www.gulfbreezewilldo.org.
