Diabetes Research Institute
Founded in 1971 by a group of parents of children with diabetes who were committed to finding a cure for this devastating disease, The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRI) has evolved into an international coalition of families, patients, business leaders, celebrities, scientists, clinicians and other concerned individuals who have elevated the importance of cure-focused research and shifted the direction of funding into this critical area.
Why we Contribute:
Rick is patient at the DRI clinic and is currently on the national and regional board of directors. He is the DRI Foundation treasurer. His good health is directly linked to the outstanding care that he receives. Rick and Margarita believe in their mission to find a cure for diabetes. They have made a major commitment in their estate plan. They are members of the Heritage Society and are Governor’s Society donation level.
The Woody Foundation
The Woody Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization formed in 2011 to raise funds for people with paralysis. The namesake of The Foundation, James “Woody” Beckham suffered his spinal cord injury making a rugby tackle in January 2011. His family and friends have bonded together to support Woody by making donations to local charities which help others with paralysis. In the ten years since Woody's injury TWF has donated over a million dollars in improving the lives of people dealing with with paralysis.
Why we Contribute:
Woody’s injury occurred while playing rugby. Steven, also played rugby in college and the injury could have happened to him. We support the foundation because we believe that someday the medical research and technology will have Woody walk again. The Beckham family are close to our hearts. The Woody Foundation has done great work since it started as a neighborhood charity. They have made a huge impact in our community. Rick is a board member and vice president. Steven is a board member.
Clearwater Free Clinic
Since 1977, the Clearwater Free Clinic (CFC) has provided problem oriented health care to low-income uninsured residents of upper Pinellas County by means of office visits, medications, lab work, x-rays, and specialty referrals. The Clinic, a volunteer driven non-profit, non-government medical facility, provides primary health care at no cost to those who do not qualify for government assistance and who cannot afford private medical care.
Why we Contribute:
Sarah, and her mother Pauline, have been volunteering at the CFC for several years. Most recently, Sarah has been able to complete a rotation for medical school at the Free Clinic.