Nominate
Past EventS
On behalf of the PLA IT FORWARD team, we want to thank everyone for attending, donating, and most importantly to our heroes being heroes every single day!
What does PLA mean?
PLA is our purpose and it stands for:
On behalf of the PLA IT FORWARD team, we want to thank everyone for attending, donating, and most importantly to our heroes being heroes every single day!
PLA is our purpose and it stands for:
© COPYRIGHT 2023 PLA IT FORWARD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Chaplain Ron Perkins was nominated for his extraordinary service and unwavering dedication to the Broward County community, particularly to the brave men and women of the police and fire departments. As the trusted Chaplain for the Fort Lauderdale Fire & Police, Coral Springs Fire & Police & Tamarac Fire Deptartment, Ron embodies compassion, strength, and resilience, providing invaluable support to first responders as they navigate the challenges and tragedies inherent in their line of duty.
Throughout Broward County, Ron’s presence is synonymous with comfort and solace during some of life’s most difficult moments. The transformative impact of Ron’s compassion and steadfast support during times of great adversity is evident. His ability to bring a sense of calmness and provide a compassionate hand amidst chaos is truly remarkable and deeply appreciated by all who have had the privilege of his presence.
The role of Chaplain is one of great importance within the community, and Ron exceeds all expectations in fulfilling this vital role. His dedication knows no bounds as he extends his help and guidance not only to these first responders but also their families and the broader public servant community. Ron’s tireless efforts in providing emotional and spiritual support to those in need have undoubtedly alleviated the burdens of many facing unimaginable challenges.
Ron’s compassion extends to all corners of the community. He selflessly offers his support to individuals and families grappling with tragedy, bringing a sense of comfort and hope during their darkest hours. Ron’s commitment to serving others, regardless of their circumstances, is a testament to his boundless empathy and unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him.
In summary, Chaplain Ron Perkins is more than deserving of recognition for his outstanding contributions to the community. His compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment to serving others exemplify the true essence of a servant leader. Through his selfless acts of kindness and support, Ron has touched the lives of countless individuals and families, leaving an indelible mark of hope and healing in the community.
Sergeant Frank Del Gaudio was nominated because of his exceptional service and dedication to the Broward community, earning him a nomination for the PLA it Forward Foundation Heroes Award. His commitment to public safety is evident through his proactive involvement in both the Miramar and Tamarac communities. Notably, his quick thinking and decisive action saved the life of a one-year-old girl who was found unresponsive due to illness. This act of heroism, recognized with the Miramar Lifesaving Award alongside Officer Elisa Romero, reflects his unwavering dedication. Remarkably, this is not an isolated incident, as Sergeant Del Gaudio previously saved another life under critical conditions in February 2018, highlighting his consistent readiness to respond to emergencies.
Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, Sergeant Del Gaudio has enhanced his department’s capabilities by obtaining certification from the Commission of Criminal Justice Standards and Training. His role as an instructor has raised operational standards and strengthened team camaraderie within the department. Additionally, Sergeant Del Gaudio serves in the Army National Guard, demonstrating his patriotism and commitment to the country. His dual roles equip him to handle diverse situations with poise and integrity.
Outside of his professional duties, Frank is a dedicated family man, providing guidance to his wife Claudia and their children, Marcello and Sophia. His family values extend into the community through active involvement in the Community Christian Church and support for local sports, particularly as avid Florida Panthers fans.
In summary, Frank Del Gaudio exemplifies the virtues of bravery, leadership, and community service, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.
Lammy Askar was nominated for being an exceptional individual who has not only overcome personal adversity but has also dedicated herself to tirelessly advocating for children’s rights, community empowerment, and social welfare.
As the Vice President of Programs for Voices for Children, Lammy demonstrates an unwavering commitment to shaping initiatives that positively impact the lives of children. Her dedication is further evident through her integral role in the Healing Hearts Capital Campaign, where she works tirelessly to secure resources for vital programs and services.
In her capacity as President of the Broward Domestic Violence Council, Lammy leads efforts to raise awareness and combat domestic violence, striving to create safer communities for all. Additionally, she contributes her expertise to the Broward AWARE committee, furthering initiatives promoting safety and well-being.
Lammy’s commitment to empowering young girls shines through her extensive involvement with the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. As a mentor and leader, she guides girls to become confident leaders of tomorrow. Her dedication extends to her role as a Women’s Community Leader at Al Amin Mosque, where she actively engages in initiatives that uplift and support women.
Recognizing the importance of global humanitarian efforts, Lammy serves as a virtual crisis counselor for the Red Crescent Society, providing crucial support to those in need. She is also a committed donor to various organizations, including the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund, UNRWA, and UNICEF, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to making a difference on a global scale.
In addition to her advocacy work, Lammy is an active member of the National Kidney Foundation Broward Chapter, furthering awareness and support for kidney health initiatives. Her philanthropic spirit is exemplified through her consistent support of numerous organizations through monthly giving, ensuring access to quality care and education for all.
Through her involvement with Memorial Health’s Circle of Friends Giving Fund, Lammy continues to make a meaningful impact on healthcare initiatives, embodying the spirit of service and compassion.
Lammy Askar’s unwavering dedication to creating positive change in her community and beyond is truly inspiring. Her commitment to service serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for many, making her an outstanding candidate for this award.
Chance at life again’: Palm Beach County woman to receive kidney transplant from United Way employee
https://www.wpbf.com/article/palm-beach-county-united-way-kidney-transplant/42922738
https://gssefblog.com/2022/06/01/helping-girl-scouts-go-for-gold/amp/
https://voicesbroward.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/TDVAM-2021.pdf
Emilio Montanez was nominated for his exceptional dedication and selfless contributions to both Memorial Hospital and the broader community. Emilio’s unwavering commitment to service and his innovative initiatives have made a profound impact on the lives of many in South Florida. His volunteerism knows no bounds, as evidenced by his extensive involvement with Memorial Hospital and various community initiatives. Since 2021, he has been a driving force behind his fraternal organization’s fundraising team at the annual AIDS walk. Through strategic social media marketing and community outreach efforts, Emilio and his team have successfully rallied community members to join their cause, raising vital funds to support programs serving the SoFlo community affected by HIV/AIDS.
In addition to his efforts with the AIDS walk, Emilio has demonstrated remarkable initiative in creating opportunities for young adults with disabilities. His small initiative, focused on providing work-based learning experience, began with a mechanic shop business in Hollywood, FL. Emilio’s goal for 2024 is to expand this pilot program, aiming to host three interns and further empower individuals with disabilities to gain valuable skills and experience in the workforce.
Emilio’s commitment to spreading holiday cheer and uplifting those in need is equally commendable. Since 2021, he has served as co-chair of the Lambda Epsilon Alumni chapter Toy Drive, an initiative aimed at bringing joy to children in lower socioeconomic statuses and those transitioning into the foster care system. Through fundraising efforts, Emilio and his team purchase toys that are hand-delivered to the Broward Outreach Center and the Miami Rescue Mission, making a tangible difference in the lives of these children during the holiday season.
Emilio Montanez embodies the spirit of service and compassion, consistently going above and beyond to make a meaningful impact in the community. His dedication to serving others and his innovative approach to addressing pressing social issues make him a truly deserving candidate for recognition. Emilio’s contributions not only reflect his values but also inspire others to join him in creating positive change.
Jim Sayih was nominated for his remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment to promoting inclusion and creating life-changing experiences for differently-abled individuals through his dedicated work as Executive Director of Special Compass. Jim’s passion for Special Compass is palpable, rooted in his personal journey as a parent raising his wheelchair-bound son, Michael. His devotion to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to participate fully in community and athletic activities is truly inspiring. Through Special Compass, Jim envisions a world where differently-abled individuals can thrive, building confidence and fostering a sense of belonging through athletic events and opportunities for independent living.
Jim’s tireless efforts extend beyond his role as Executive Director. He volunteers his time alongside dedicated board members to make a positive impact in the lives of those they serve. His commitment to inclusivity and empowerment has touched the lives of hundreds of individuals, providing them with opportunities to feel special and included in athletic endeavors.
As a 10-year Air Force veteran and retired Police Lieutenant with the Miami Police Department, Jim brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep sense of dedication to his work. His academic background in Exercise and Sports Science further enhances his ability to support others in achieving their goals and living fulfilling lives.
Jim’s impact extends far beyond the local community, as evidenced by his appearances on Good Morning America, numerous news outlets, Muscle & Fitness magazine, and various newspapers. His co-authorship of the best-selling book, “The Success Secret,” reflects his commitment to sharing knowledge and inspiring others to strive for greatness.
In conclusion, Jim Sayih’s unwavering dedication, passion for inclusivity, and commitment to serving others make him a truly deserving candidate for recognition. His remarkable contributions through Special Compass have transformed the lives of countless individuals, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment, hope, and inclusion. Jim’s character, leadership, and tireless efforts embody the spirit of compassion and service, making him an exceptional role model and catalyst for positive change in the community and beyond.
Karey Bosack Greenstein was nominated for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and tireless service within the Memorial Hospital system and the broader community. Karey’s profound impact spans across various roles, each marked by her unwavering commitment to philanthropy, advocacy, and community empowerment.
Within the Memorial Healthcare system, Karey has held numerous instrumental roles, showcasing her versatility and depth of expertise. As the Planned Giving Director for the Memorial & JDCH Foundations, she has played a pivotal role in cultivating relationships and securing vital support for the organization’s mission. Additionally, her leadership as the Administrator for Memorial Legacy Leaders and the Pink Angels has been instrumental in advancing initiatives aimed at improving healthcare outcomes and supporting patients and families facing challenging circumstances.
Karey’s dedication extends beyond the healthcare sector, as evidenced by her invaluable contributions to St. Gregory Catholic Church & School. Serving on the Development Board of Directors and as the Special Events Coordinator for the Home & School Association, Karey has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering community engagement and supporting educational initiatives.
Furthermore, Karey’s involvement with the Planned Giving Council of Broward County underscores her passion for philanthropy and strategic planning. As the Co-President and Chair of the 30th Annual Symposium and Inaugural Golden PG Awards, she has played a pivotal role in advancing the field of planned giving and recognizing excellence within the community.
Karey’s commitment to serving others is further exemplified by her longstanding involvement with the Special Olympics of Broward County. Through her dedicated service on the Development Committee and participation in events such as Sallarulo’s Race for Champions, Karey has made a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with special needs and their families.
Her dedication to personal and professional development is evident through her participation in various leadership programs, including Leadership Plantation, Emerge Broward, and Leadership Broward Class 42. Karey’s continuous pursuit of excellence and her active involvement in professional organizations such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) further highlight her commitment to advancing the field of philanthropy and making a positive difference in the community.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Karey generously shares her expertise and insights as a contributing writer for The Daily Drip, covering topics ranging from motherhood to estate planning and planned giving, thereby contributing to public awareness and education on important issues.
Karey Bosack Greenstein’s unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and passion for serving others make her an exemplary candidate for recognition. Her tireless efforts have made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and communities, embodying the spirit of compassion and service that truly sets her apart.
Tyler Hoffman was nominated for his extraordinary dedication and selfless commitment to raising awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis, exemplifying the true spirit of compassion and altruism. As a firefighter, Tyler embodies the values of courage, selflessness, and dedication to serving others. His profession requires bravery in the face of adversity, and Tyler has consistently demonstrated these qualities both on and off duty.
Tyler’s decision to undertake the monumental challenge of paddling across the Atlantic to the Bahamas is a testament to his unwavering determination and compassion. His motivation to undertake such a grueling endeavor stems from a deeply personal connection—a neighbor child battling cystic fibrosis. Tyler’s decision to use his physical prowess and determination to raise awareness and funds for this cause speaks volumes about his character and empathy.
It is awe-inspiring to witness Tyler’s unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, despite the demands of his profession and family life. His dedication to training for this challenge while balancing the responsibilities of marriage and fatherhood is truly remarkable and serves as an inspiration to all who know him.
Tyler’s efforts not only raise vital funds for cystic fibrosis research but also shine a spotlight on the importance of awareness and advocacy for those affected by this condition. His willingness to go above and beyond to support his neighbor child and others battling cystic fibrosis is a testament to his compassionate nature and desire to make a meaningful impact in the world.
In conclusion, Tyler Hoffman’s dedication to raising awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis through his extraordinary paddling challenge exemplifies the highest ideals of selflessness and compassion. His commitment to serving others, even in the face of immense personal challenges, is a shining example of the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of others. Tyler’s actions inspire us all to strive for a better world, where compassion and kindness prevail.
Kourtney currently serves as the Vice President of Survivor Care at Operation Underground Railroad (OUR Rescue), where her dedication and passion for advocating for vulnerable populations have made a profound impact.
Before her role at OUR Rescue, Kourtney demonstrated her commitment to serving survivors of human trafficking and other forms of violence while working at Utah State University. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in building their advocacy program, providing essential counseling and case management services to survivors in the US and Canada. Her efforts were instrumental in establishing a 24/7 response team to address reports of sexual assault, domestic violence, and interpersonal violence, ensuring survivors received the support and care they urgently needed.
In her current role, Kourtney oversees comprehensive survivor care programs across the Americas and Europe, demonstrating her exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Her track record of advocating for vulnerable populations speaks volumes about her dedication to making a difference in the lives of those who have experienced trauma and exploitation.
Kourtney’s commitment extends beyond the confines of her organization, as she actively collaborates with other NGOs to provide wrap-around services for survivors in the South Florida community. Her partnership with Daniel Ogden and Cyber to establish a hub in Florida further underscores her commitment to creating a supportive environment where survivors can access the resources they need to heal and thrive.
Kourtney Austin’s contributions to survivor care and advocacy are truly remarkable, and her work at Operation Underground Railroad exemplifies her unwavering dedication to serving others. She is a valued member of the OUR Rescue team, and they are incredibly proud to nominate her for this honor to highlight her exceptional achievements and dedication to making the world a better place.
Tamara Moore was nominated for her outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to the organization’s mission. Serving as the Regional Director of Operations and Partnerships, Tamara has exemplified remarkable leadership, particularly in spearheading initiatives to empower and enrich the youth of South Florida and the DMV region.
Since 2017, Tamara has been at the forefront of the organization’s efforts, championing free Jr NBA clinics and camps tailored for Broward youth aged 4 to 16. Through her tireless efforts, she has not only provided invaluable opportunities for skill development but has also instilled a sense of community and belonging among the youth.
Tamara’s commitment extends far beyond the basketball court. She has displayed remarkable initiative in launching grassroots programs such as toy drives, turkey drives, and the beloved Easter event, which serves as a culmination of the free clinic in partnership with the WNBA & NBA. These initiatives have not only brought joy to countless families but have also strengthened the fabric of the community.
Through her exceptional networking skills, Tamara has cultivated partnerships with numerous organizations, schools, nonprofits, and communities, further amplifying the impact of the programs. Her efforts have resulted in the donation of over 500 basketballs to youth and young adults in South Florida, providing them with the tools they need to thrive. Moreover, Tamara’s ability to mobilize volunteers has been instrumental in bridging the gap of student involvement, offering mentorship and career development training opportunities, and enabling students to accrue valuable service learning hours through volunteering.
Tamara’s leadership extends beyond the organization, as evidenced by her pivotal role in the partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation’s TEEN program. Her efforts in organizing the annual summer end-of-year event on Fort Lauderdale Beach for youth ages 12 to 17 have been nothing short of exemplary, earning her recognition for her outstanding leadership and community voluntarism.
In summary, Tamara Moore is an exceptional candidate whose dedication, passion, and vision have been instrumental in advancing the mission of providing affordable youth fitness and health activities to Broward County. Her unwavering commitment to serving the community makes her a truly deserving nominee for this award.
Click here to see Michael’s work with special needs children on News 7 Miami.
Like many parents, when their son Connor was diagnosed with autism, they automatically began to wonder about what their son would be unable to do. It wasn’t until they met Michael “Tarzan” Fernandez that they learned that there is nothing that autism would keep their son from.
The parent is an active Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, and it had always been their dream to share the life-changing martial art with their son. By chance, they heard about a Jiu Jitsu school with a program called “Just Us Two,” specifically designed for children with Special Needs. They took a leap of faith and showed up with their son. Since then, their son has not been the same. Not only has he made great friends with different special needs, but he has also learned Jiu Jitsu.
Michael Fernandez, the owner of The First Order of Jiu Jitsu, is not only a full-time school teacher with two children of his own, but he is also a hero who uses his love of teaching and extensive knowledge of Jiu Jitsu to reach children that some people in society give up on. He’s described as selfless and humble, often volunteering his own limited time to help teach police officers how to defend themselves with Jiu Jitsu.
Michael Fernandez’s dedication and selflessness make him an obvious choice for the parent to nominate for an honor. Despite all he does, he never asks for anything in return. The parent is proud to nominate him for this honor.
Austen is a longtime volunteer of Winterfest and the events associated with it. On Saturday, December 3, 2022 Austen saved a man’s life by performing CPR when the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino worker went down in front of us. It was at Midnight and the Gala had just ended and all our guests were gone. Austen recognized what was happening and started CPR right away when we saw he was turning blue and not breathing. He did 10 rounds BY HAND as the ballroom is in the back of the property, it took some time for the medics to arrive on scene. The ballroom is in the back of the property, it took some time for the medics to arrive on scene. Austen is 28 years old and is an Assistant Store manager at Publix and their policy is to have management trained in CPR. His heroic efforts saved that mans life and within 2-3 weeks he was back at the Hard Rock working. Austen started his career at Publix when he was just 14 years old. He is married to Alina, who also works for Publix.
Larry Scates is a detective at the Coconut Creek Police Department and was the first officer Big Brother in our Bigs in Blue program. Larry was matched in 2019 with Elijah, a rambunctious 10-year-old at the time. He has since served as a role model, helping Elijah learn how to make better choices, develop social skills, and simply have fun. Larry also went above and beyond for Elijah and his family when a financial crisis hit during the pandemic. He was able to connect the family with multiple resources to get them back on their feet.
Lisa has served her community as a volunteer leader through her role with Memorial Healthcare System while managing their employee volunteer program for over 20 years. As the past President of DOVS (Directors of Volunteer Services), she led other volunteer leaders by facilitating continued education, skill building and networking. Lisa has sat on several boards while promoting community volunteering and supporting local non-profits. She is passionate about volunteers and their role in a healthy community.
Lisa discovered volunteerism through Memorial Healthcare Systems employee volunteer program HERO (Healthcare Employees Reaching Out) when she began with them in 2002. This love of volunteering drove her to change careers and begin her journey to volunteer management. Over the past years bridges and relationships have been formed to create partnerships with other municipalities, organizations, and nonprofits. She has managed countless projects and large events, sometimes enlisting the help of hundreds of volunteers for one event. By developing meaningful projects for staff and their families, creating valuable family time as well as time for staff to connect with local organizations. It is a win win. Staff get to find areas of need where they can make a difference and local organizations get amazing volunteers. This often leads to their involvement on boards, committees, and other leadership roles. The ripple effect is tremendous. Encouraging families to volunteer together builds lasting memories and teaches children the value of volunteering. Each year there are several drives to help the less fortunate. The “Adopt” a Child drive partners volunteers with children in need for back to school and for the holidays. Each participating child gets a backpack filled with supplies, uniforms, shoes, and other goodies to ensure they have what they need to succeed throughout the school year. Over the holidays children complete a wish list of three items they would like to receive. The staff are matched with these children and purchase at least one item off the list, often buying them all! Over the past years this project has touched the lives of tens of thousands of children. She is never one to turn down a challenge. When a call comes in for help, her can do attitude is evident. Lisa’s drive and passion to help others has grown the volunteer program to one that many municipalities, organizations, and local nonprofits rely on for support. Lisa is a bridge builder within our community and a cheerleader to volunteers.
Rehana, a remarkable individual with an unwavering commitment to serving others, has dedicated her life to the noble profession of nursing. With a wealth of experience in the fast-paced and demanding environment of the emergency room, Rehana has become an invaluable asset to the healthcare community.
From a young age, she exhibited a deep desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. This drove her to pursue a career in nursing at Nova Southeastern University, which she believed would provide her with the opportunity to fulfill her calling.
Rehana’s professional journey commenced in a bustling emergency room, where she quickly established herself as a competent and compassionate nurse. The high-pressure environment of the ER allowed her to showcase her ability to remain calm and composed during critical situations. Her exceptional communication skills and ability to think on her feet made her an asset to the team.
Over the years, Rehana’s experience in the emergency room honed her skills in triage, trauma care, and emergency interventions. Her dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and protocols has enabled her to provide optimal care to patients, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Rehana’s journey as a nurse in the emergency room is a testament to her unwavering dedication, compassion, and expertise. Her tireless efforts have saved countless lives and provided solace to those in need. As the medical field continues to evolve, Rehana remains an inspiring figure, serving as a beacon of hope and compassion for future generations of nurses
Hello, my name is Jeffrey Heuschkel, I’m a 29 year old Miami born native. I have been a nurse for nearly 5 years now at the University of Miami Hospital. While I normally work in the ICU, I am also one of the few research nurses that administer and study immunotherapy, as well as gene modification lines of treatment in hopes of finding the cure for a variety of different blood cancers.
My mother is now a retired nurse and my inspiration for pursuing a career in the medical field. On numerous occasions growing up I can remember my mom springing into action when a frantic neighbor came by or called for her help when their loved one was injured or in distress. In moments where I was frozen unsure of what to do, she would spring into motion and contain the situation, it felt like watching a superhero in action. Moreover, my father’s passing was an additional reason as to what groomed me to want to assist others. Seeing my mother take care of him and helping him in any way possible helped me become closer with patients as well, taking care of them as they were family.
Working during the pandemic was no small feat. I am very blessed to be an oncologic research nurse for South Florida’s only National Cancer Institute, The University of Miami Hospital. When I’m not working in the ICU, I am administering new clinical trial drugs and collecting data for FDA approval to replace current first line treatments for blood cancers. Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death in the United States, but numbers are beginning to decline, and with the progress I have seen first hand I am hopeful we will dramatically reduce, if not cure cancer within my lifetime.
When I’m not at work I have been collaborating with some friends to develop the Miramar Chess Club for the South Florida community. Everyone of all skill levels and ages are welcome to join. Aside from spreading the joy of chess to the community, our goal is to grow large enough to host nationally recognized prize tournaments and bring more attention to the beauty behind game of chess.
Thank you PLA for your consideration and nomination, this event truly speaks volumes in recognizing front of the line workers that may not always receive a recognition and we appreciate your organization for doing so. I look forward to being at the event and rooting along with other fellow nominees.
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.