Broward Health Foundation recently hosted its Tribute to Healthcare Heroes presented by Skanska, an inspiring virtual presentation that honored Broward Health’s selfless healthcare workers during a one-hour special event streamed on several social media channels on Thursday, February 11, 2021. Thousands of supporters tuned in and helped raise more than $225,000 for Broward Health Foundation’s Covid-19 Relief Fund, which provides ongoing philanthropic support for Broward Health’s evolving needs throughout the pandemic.
Hosted by six-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Laurie Jennings, the tribute featured moving patient stories, uplifting interviews with frontline workers, segments with Broward Health leadership, and appearances by special guests NBA Hall of Famer and Miami Heat legend Alonzo Mourning and former Miami Dolphins standout Twan Russell, who is the current youth program ambassador for the team.
A highlight of the evening was the debut of an original song entitled “Love and Light,” composed and produced by Weston native Shelbie Rassler. A gifted musician who gained national attention for several high profile collaborations, Rassler’s original score was performed by dozens of South Florida high school students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Dillard High School, J.P. Taravella, Archbishop McCarthy, South Plantation, Dreyfoos School of the Arts, NSU University School, Cypress Bay, American Heritage and Western High School, who collaborated on vocals, instrumentals and dance.
“The Tribute to Healthcare Heroes was one of our major fundraisers this year and we are tremendously grateful to everyone who generously donated to help support such a meaningful cause,” said Bill Diggs, president of the Broward Health Foundation. “We are in awe of our selfless healthcare heroes, like nurse James McCrae, who continue to work tirelessly throughout the pandemic and are proud to give back to our community, which trusts and relies on Broward Health for their care.”
A recording of the tribute video is available to view on Broward Health’s YouTube channel. Donations to the Broward Health Foundation are still welcomed and can be made here.
A special thanks to Diamond Sponsors: Aetna, Aramark Healthcare, Kyle C. Boos, Care Management Resources, Fratarcangeli Wealth Management, Nova Southeastern University Health Professions Division, Pediatrix Medical Group, Total Health Medical Centers, Turner Construction and Ultimate Kronos Group. The event host committee was led by Bob Birdsong, Board Chair of Broward Health Foundation, Kyle Boos, Nelmarie Bowe, Bill Diggs, Nicole Heran, Brian Irvine, Mark Kent, Rosy Lopez, Amy Miller, Peter Neirouz, Rudy Numa and George Tokesky.
The Broward Health Foundation is the fundraising arm of Broward Health. The mission of the Broward Health Foundation is to improve the health of the community by providing resources to promote, support and enhance the programs and initiatives of Broward Health. For more information, visit BrowardHealthFoundation.
