Our Mission - Venice Area Beautification, Inc. (VABI) is a 501(c)3 corporation whose mission is to make the Venice area a more beautiful place to live, work and play.

Background - Venice Area Beautification, Inc. was founded in 1990 by the Venice Chamber of Commerce to address landscape beautification projects along US 41 in Venice. In 1993 a Sarasota County Charrette was organized to plan for the County's future growth and development. The renovation of the old train depot and a linear trail along both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway were top priorities for South County. The VABI group was inspired by the idea of a recreational trail in their community and adopted the idea.  

Major Accomplishments - One spectacular result of the VABI organization is the Venetian Waterway Park (VWP) that extends along both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway. This sustainable resource for public enjoyment incorporates the character of the area, our natural resources and the widely diverse interests of our community. The VWP will provide recreational, environmental, historical and cultural perspectives and an eloquent legacy for generations to come.

VABI is proud to have been a partner with the Sarasota Leadership Class of 2002 in the construction and development of Patriot's Park. The park is located in Venice on the Northeast corner where Business 41 and By Pass 41 join together. The memorial, with stations, pillars and brick pavers, was inspired by the events of the September 11, 2001 tragedy. The park represents an inspiring tribute to those who have given so much for us all.

Board of Directors - The success of the VWP project can truly be contributed in large measure to the unyielding dedication of it's volunteer Board of Directors. Several initial members served over six years before seeing the first concrete of the trail poured. It is this spirit of commitment that turned an implausible dream into a spectacular reality.