For acts of giving, a distinct new spin.

Byline: ZAC ANDERSON

Patterson Foundation will focus on a few key projects - with flexibility

The leaders of Sarasota's big new philanthropic juggernaut -- the $200 million Patterson Foundation -- set their group apart Wednesday by focusing on high-impact projects they select instead of seeking grant applications from local charities.

Think Bill Gates trying to wipe out malaria instead of smaller grants to a variety of causes.

In the process, foundation leaders are discouraging unsolicited requests for funding.

They will pick projects based on internal discussions and make larger, potentially more long-term financial commitments.

The strategy is unusual among Southwest Florida's large foundations, but one used by some major national and international foundations to funnel large sums of money …