What Community Collaboration Looks Like

The year 2017 would not only see the arrival of a Category four hurricane impact the lower and middle Florida Keys, but it would also see the creation of the volunteer organization known today as the Marco Patriots. Since then, that group of volunteer citizens has rallied together to respond to assist victims of natural disasters throughout the State of Florida as well as the entire Southeast United States, most recently aiding the victims of the tragic flooding in Texas and North Carolina.

On Saturday, the Carvelli Restaurant Group, which operates several popular restaurants here on Marco Island, hosted the Marco Patriots at their trendy waterfront Snook Inn location in Old Marco, providing the search/rescue organization with a venue to meet their many supporters and raise much needed revenue to support the all-volunteer organization.

The partnership is more than a fundraiser — it’s a fusion of local flavor and local heart. Carvelli Restaurant Group, known for its dedication to excellence in hospitality and community presence through restaurants like The Snook Inn and others, is stepping into a new chapter of giving by teaming up with Marco Patriots, a grassroots disaster relief organization built by locals, for locals.

“The Carvelli Restaurant Group has always been a supporter of the work done by many organizations here on the island, and especially the dedicated efforts of the Marco Patriots. We are no strangers to the destruction which has been done due to natural disasters such as the flood damage we’ve seen recently, as well as the tragic loss of life we’ve all recently seen occur,” said Luigi Carvelli, who welcomed the Marco Patriots to the popular waterfront facility on the Marco River.

“We are very pleased with the generosity of the Carvelli Group and their support here today which has helped to raise over $7,500 which goes directly to supporting disaster response in regard to search/rescue and humanitarian support,” said Matt Melican, who leads the Marco Patriot organization.

Marco Patriots has been a pillar of strength in times of crisis, providing swift and compassionate aid during hurricanes, evacuations, and emergencies. Their boots-on-the-ground approach and deep-rooted understanding of the community’s needs have earned them widespread respect and trust. By joining forces with Carvelli, the organization now has an even broader platform to raise funds, spread awareness, and strengthen its mission.

Melican is assisted in the missions carried out by the Marco Patriots by longtime member Ron Hagerman, who has spearheaded the search/rescue efforts undertaken by the Marco Patriots. Hagerman first saw a need when Hurricane Katrina devastated the city of New Orleans, and he responded on his own and helped to evacuate numerous individuals who were trapped by the floodwaters in New Orleans and the surrounding areas.

The Marco Patriots also set up and feed first responders and displaced residents, as well as provide food and water during the days after these tragic events.

Both Hagerman and Melican spoke to the plight of animals after these disasters and how they are sometimes the forgotten victims in these storms and have needed their attention at times, including adoption once there is no home to return to. “It really is a shame,” said Melican.

Aside from Carvelli Restaurant Group’s effort, Joey Oliverio and Vince, owners of Doreen’s, Joey’s, and La Mesa, donated a generous $2,250 to the cause. Wow Jetski Tours, Swallow the Leader Charter, and Florida Adventures and Rentals all donated experiences while Coldstone Creamery, Nautical Bowls, Wake Up Marco, Red Rooster, Marco Island Florist, Sandpiper Clothiers, Seafern Collection, Salty Dog, Rick’s Island Salon, Phelan Group, Rose Marina, Cocomo’s, Dolce Mare, Marco Island Brewery, Marco Island Candle Company, and Cav’s Kitchen+ Cocktails all donated gift cards and/or retail to help support the greater good.

Should you want to help in their efforts, you can reach out to the Marco Patriots in several ways.