Foundation launched by KWPMC co-founder Paul Kaplan and wife Michele has raised over $800,000
Families for Fragile X will host its ninth annual Monkey Madness 5K Run and Family Fun Walk presented by LJ Partnership Guggenheim on April 29, 2018 at Zoo Miami. The run/walk will raise funds for research and spread awareness of Fragile X Syndrome.
Caused by a gene mutation preventing the body from making vital proteins, Fragile X is the most common form of mental impairment. Symptoms can range from learning disabilities to intellectual or severe cognitive disabilities, delays in speech and language development. One in every 3,600 males and one in every 8,000 females are affected, and 33 percent of those with Fragile X also have autism.
Families for Fragile X was founded by Michele and KW Property Management and Consulting Managing Director and Co-Founder Paul Kaplan, along with Vanessa Chartouni de la Serna in 2008. Following the diagnosis of Michele and Paul’s son, Matthew, at 14 months old, the foundation has set out to provide support for families going through the same process. Since then, along with their daughter, Rachel, Families for Fragile X has raised over $800,000 towards the cause.
KWPMC has been a longtime sponsor and supporter of the foundation, along with board members Mark Grimmel, Ari Rollnick and Christina Chartouni de Calle.
“When we held our first walk, we wanted to raise awareness, increase local involvement and support and generate much needed funds for research and advocacy,” said Michele Kaplan. “Our walks and other initiatives serve a way to reach all of our goals in one.”
Over 400 participants are expected at this year’s event, which will be held on a USA Track & Field certified course at 12400 SW 152 Street in Miami. Participants can qualify for a certified race in which their times can be officially submitted to the organization.
Proceeds from the race will go to research and advocacy, the University of California Davis MIND Institute and to help fund weekly evaluations for families at the University of Miami’s South Florida Fragile X Clinic led by Dr. Deborah S. Barbouth.
“We never imagined that we would have the success we have had,” said Paul Kaplan. “We’ve been able to connect local families who are all going through the same thing and that is a win in itself. We’re hopeful to be able to continue to provide a platform for those impacted by Fragile X Syndrome and push to one day find a cure.”
About Families for Fragile X: Families for Fragile X is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that allows parents to have others to identify with that are going through the same struggles, headaches, and heartaches that come with having a child or adult affected with the Fragile X Syndrome. The mission is to provide family support, to promote public awareness and to support scientific research leading to better treatments and a future cure for Fragile X Syndrome. For more information, visitfamiliesforfragilex.com or email michelemkaplan@yahoo.com.
About KW Property Management & Consulting: KW Property Management & Consulting is headquartered in Miami with offices across Florida in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Bonita Springs/Naples, Tampa/Clearwater and Orlando; as well as Bimini Bay in the Bahamas. The company provides a professional and independent approach to property management with more than 1,300 employees. From upscale high-rises, to homeowners’ associations and garden-style townhomes, KW Property Management & Consulting meets the needs of more than 70,000 unit owners. For more information, visit www.kwpmc.com.
