TAMPA, Fla. (April 10, 2014) — The Willis Foundation and Willis of Florida in Tampa raised more than $45,000 at its inaugural fundraising event on April 4. Approximately 250 people – all attired in white – attended “Willis Foundation in White” at the Tampa Bay History Museum in Tampa.
The social event featured food and beverages from the Columbia Cafe, dancing to music from DJ Santana, hand-rolled cigars on the terrace, “red carpet” photos for guests and business networking.
At the event, two local nonprofit organizations – A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay and the Pediatric Cancer Foundation – were each presented with oversized checks representing donations of $2,500. A Kid’s Place provides superior residential services to children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. The Pediatric Cancer Foundation funds research to find less-toxic, more targeted therapies for childhood cancer.
The Willis Foundation, a nonprofit organization associated with global insurance broker Willis Group Holdings, will use the remainder of the funds raised to support local Tampa Bay charities. Willis of Florida in Tampa leaders will help select the beneficiaries.
“We feel fortunate to be in the position to raise money for local charities that are near and dear to our hearts,” said Jim Doyle, Willis of Florida Managing Partner for Tampa and West Florida. “We are thrilled with how our inaugural event turned out and can’t thank our guests, sponsors and event co-chairs, Annette Wright and Teresa Boyd, enough for their hard work and support.”
More than 40 local insurance companies sponsored “Willis Foundation in White.”
“Engaging in locally based philanthropy and volunteerism is an essential part of The Willis Foundation’s mission, and part of Willis Group Holdings’ culture,” said Tampa-based Vic Krauze, Chairman of Willis North America and Vice President of The Willis Foundation’s board of directors. “Our Tampa Bay associates’ efforts for this inaugural event were very impressive, and will undoubtedly make a positive impact on our community.”
About The Willis Foundation:
The Willis Foundation is a nonprofit corporation affiliated with Willis Group Holdings, the global insurance broker. Established in 2010, The Willis Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Nashville, Tennessee. The vision of the Foundation is to encourage Willis Associates and key business partners to participate in charitable activities and engage with the communities Willis serves. Throughout the year, The Willis Foundation organizes fundraising events and, in turn, makes charitable contributions to eligible nonprofit organizations across North America. Grant recipients are nominated by Willis Associates as a vehicle to give back to their communities.
About Willis of Florida:
Willis of Florida is a branch of Willis Group Holdings, a leading global risk advisor, insurance and reinsurance broker. With roots dating to 1828, Willis operates today on every continent with more than 18,000 employees in over 400 offices. Willis offers its clients superior expertise, teamwork, innovation and market-leading products and professional services in risk management and transfer.