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A benefit brunch for ALSO Youth families and allies

Under the Cherry Blossoms

Sunday, February 7, 2027, 11 AM to 1 PM, at Hanami Sushi, Cocktails and Lounge (Sarasota).

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Executive Director Annie Berkness presents at 2026 Hanami Benefit Brunch

In Japan, Hanami is the tradition of gathering beneath cherry trees in full bloom. For 35 years, ALSO Youth has been that place for LGBTQ+ youth in Sarasota and Manatee Counties: somewhere to gather, grow, and be celebrated.

Through storms and political headwinds, we've kept our doors open. For many LGBTQ+ youth, home is complicated. ALSO Youth is still here, a place where they are safe, seen, and celebrated. Storms come and go. ALSO Youth stays. And every young person who finds us gets the chance to bloom.

When and where

Sunday, February 7, 2027, 11 AM to 1 PM

Hanami Sushi, Cocktails and Lounge1525 4th St, Unit C, Sarasota, FL 34236

Get directions in Google Maps

Tickets

  • Brunch ticket, $59

    Early bird $59 through December 15, then Regular $69.

    Open buffet of Asian fusion and sushi, two drink tickets per person for alcoholic drinks, and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.

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About ALSO Youth

ALSO Youth welcomes more than 1,600 visits each year at our Sarasota and Manatee Centers

  • ALSO youth doing arts and crafts

    Community building

  • Berkness with ALSO Youth counselors and Robyn Faucy

    Mental health counseling

  • ALSO youth high-fives baseball mascot

    Advocacy and outreach

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Nonprofit information

ALSO for Gay Youth, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN: 74-2840470.

Form 990Annual report

ALSO Youth is registered with the State of Florida, registration number CH15368. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free (800-435-7352) within the state or by visiting FloridaConsumerHelp.com. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.

Hanami Sushi, Cocktails and Lounge

An elevated, gourmet, bespoke but modern restaurant, with a beautiful bar and experienced bartenders for artisan cocktails and more drinks.

Hanami Sushi, Cocktails & Lounge grew out of a friendship that began by chance at a birthday dinner, where Samuel Ray met Jeffrey Karasawa. That friendship became a business partnership, and in 2016 the two built Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi Grill from the ground up through long days, high standards, and what Sam called “blood, sweat, and tears.” With strong community support, they expanded to Tsunami Lakewood Ranch and then opened Hanami in Downtown Sarasota, the most ambitious concept of Sam’s career.

Sam saw hospitality as an experience rather than just a meal, and Hanami reflects that: every detail, from the design of the space to the energy behind the bar, was intentional. After Sam’s unexpected passing in April 2026 at age 34, co-owners Jeffrey Karasawa and Jason Klamson and their team have kept Hanami going, carrying forward his vision of care, creativity, and experiential dining.

  • Open buffet of Asian fusion and sushi
  • Two drink tickets per person for alcoholic drinks, and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
  • Complimentary valet parking
  • Accessible to wheelchair users
1525 4th St, Unit C, Sarasota, FL 34236

Get directions in Google Maps

Your deductible amount is your gift minus the value of the tickets and benefits you receive.

Our sponsors

Blossom Canopy

Satura Petal

Contact

Francis Garcia

Development and Communications Manager

(941) 254-7178

francis@alsoyouth.org

Sarasota Center2195 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34237