The Inspiration &
The People
Some people don’t just live in a community—they transform it.
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Patty and Jay Baker are two of those people. Their generosity has shaped Naples in ways that impact thousands of lives every day. From world-class healthcare to the arts, education, and public spaces, their contributions have built a legacy of kindness that will continue for generations. Their story has inspired ours...
The Inspiration
As the CEO of a theater, I know that some stories are too important not to be told -
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And as my wife Katie and I prepare to welcome our first son, Ellis, into the world, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible community that will shape his future. He will be born on a Baker Hospital campus. He may attend the Baker Preschool of the Arts. He will play in Baker Park, experience theater and art in spaces bearing the Bakers' names, and benefit from countless other gifts they have given to our community. Their generosity surrounds us—and it will shape his life in ways big and small.
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But what if none of this existed? What if people like Patty and Jay Baker hadn’t dedicated their lives to making our community stronger?
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We wanted our son to understand that generosity isn’t just something to admire—it’s something to carry forward. We wanted him to see that kindness and giving can transform lives, just like the Bakers have transformed ours.
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So we wrote The Bakers by the Sea.
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This heartwarming children’s book tells the story of a young boy (ours), who discovers how two extraordinary people have changed his town—not by baking bread or cakes, but by "baking" kindness and generosity into everything they do. It’s a lesson we hope will inspire not just our son, but children and families everywhere, to find their own ways to give back.
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After bringing the story to life with professional illustrations from our friend Brittany, we are honored to share The Bakers by the Sea with you. Thanks to The Naples Players, hundreds of copies will be distributed to organizations across the region, with all proceeds supporting the nonprofit where each book is purchased—continuing the very spirit of giving that inspired this book.
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We invite you to join us in celebrating the power of generosity. Reserve your copy today, and help us sprinkle kindness into the next generation.
The People - Jay & Patty Baker: A Legacy of Generosity
Few people have had as profound an impact on a community as Jay and Patty Baker. Their dedication to philanthropy has transformed Naples, Florida, making it a more vibrant, compassionate, and thriving place for generations to come. From world-class healthcare to the arts, education, and public spaces, the Bakers’ generosity has touched nearly every aspect of life in Naples, ensuring that the city remains a place where people can heal, learn, create, and grow.
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Jay Baker: From Retail Visionary to Philanthropic Leader
Jay Baker is best known for his transformative leadership in the retail industry. As the former President of Kohl’s Department Stores, he played a pivotal role in growing the company into one of the largest and most successful retail chains in the United States. His keen business acumen, strategic leadership, and deep understanding of customer needs helped position Kohl’s as a household name, setting new standards for retail excellence.
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Yet, despite his remarkable success in the business world, Jay’s greatest passion has always been giving back. He and Patty made a commitment early on to use their success to create meaningful change, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and the arts. Jay has often said that giving is the greatest reward in life, and through his philanthropy, he has demonstrated that belief time and again.
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Patty Baker: A Champion for the Arts and Community Well-Being
Patty Baker shares Jay’s passion for philanthropy, with a special focus on the arts and cultural enrichment. Her love for theater, music, and the visual arts has led to significant contributions to organizations that bring creativity and inspiration to the community. She has been a tireless advocate for the transformative power of the arts, ensuring that people of all ages have access to performances, exhibitions, and creative learning opportunities.
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In addition to her support for the arts, Patty has been deeply involved in initiatives that enhance community well-being. Her work alongside Jay has helped fund hospitals, schools, and public spaces that improve the quality of life for countless individuals and families. Her warm spirit and generous heart have made her a beloved figure in Naples, known for her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
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A Lasting Legacy
The Bakers’ impact extends far beyond the institutions that bear their name. Their generosity has inspired others to give, creating a ripple effect of kindness and philanthropy throughout the community. They have shown that success is not just measured in business achievements but in the ability to uplift others and leave the world better than they found it.
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Through The Bakers by the Sea, we hope to share their story with future generations—reminding children and families that generosity has the power to change lives. Just as the Bakers have enriched Naples, we hope their legacy continues to inspire countless others to “bake” kindness into their own communities.