Neal Communities, southwest Florida’s premier, private homebuilder, has donated $5,000 as a Gold Sponsor of The Manatee County Fair. The fair opened January 11 and will be open each day until January 21 at 1402 14th Avenue West in Palmetto.

Neal Communities has been a long-time sponsor of this family-friendly event, with donations going back at least 12 years. In addition to the Neal Communities’ sponsorship, Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities, is also personally purchasing a steer in support of the Manatee River Fair Association. This is something that he has done for many years, and typically, he donates them to a local church.

“We believe that where you live matters, and strong communities are important. Having activities like the Manatee County Fair that families can attend together helps build that sense of community, and it’s just good fun,” said Neal, who has fond memories of attending the fair with his family while growing up in Iowa.

The fair offers a full schedule of main stage and daily entertainment, livestock events, exhibitions, rides, games, booths and refreshments. From wrestling to pig races to the petting zoo, there are activities for everyone.

Neal Communities has a philanthropic culture and a core belief that “Where You Live Matters.” The latest giving is part of more than $8 million Neal Communities has donated to local charities and causes throughout Southwest Florida.