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Jodi McMasters was honored for her volunteer efforts with Boys Town South Florida. |
Volunteer Recognized for Commitment to Helping Others
Jodi McMasters has always given 110 percent.
Her undying support and dedication for helping others motivates her year after year to spearhead Boys Town South Florida's Basket Brigade. And it's that same driving force that helped her battle back from a coma to continue her mission of helping others.
"Jodi is someone who motivates others to do what needs to be done," said Amy Simpson, Boys Town South Florida Site Director, "even when that someone is herself."
McMasters, who has volunteered for the Basket Brigade for more than 10 years, was severely injured in a car crash when returning home from the event in 2003. She suffered severe head trauma, was in a coma for a month, relearned how to walk and talk through months of rehabilitation, and was back at the forefront of the annual effort just one year later.
"Her story is an inspiration to everyone," said Simpson. "Jodi and her husband are tremendous volunteers who recognize the need to support struggling families here in South Florida, despite any personal hurdles they may face."
On Nov. 15, Boys Town South Florida recognized McMaster for her commitment to the Basket Brigade, the organization and its efforts to help children and families in need as part of National Philanthropy Day.
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Amy Simpson, Boys Town South Florida Site Director; McMasters; Karl Dickey, McMasters' husband, and Noemi Coltea, Boys Town South Florida Development Director |
McMasters' was named as a Table Honoree at a luncheon hosted by The Merrill Lynch Center for Philanthropy and NonProfit Management at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach, Fla. The event honored citizens who go above and beyond in assisting families in need in the South Florida community.
"Jodi's efforts echo Father Flanagan's spirit of caring for children and families, and help us extend our mission to those with the greatest need," said Simpson.
The annual Boys Town South Florida Basket Brigade, sponsored in conjunction with the Anthony Robbins Foundation, assembles and delivers Thanksgiving food baskets to needy children and families.
Last year, more than 100 families recovering from Hurricane Wilma received a complete Thanksgiving dinner through the Thanksgiving Basket Brigade. Efforts in previous years assisted more than 200 families at a time, representing more than 1,200 people annually. With McMasters' help again this year, hundreds of families will benefit once again.
"With her help, and the help of countless volunteers, hundreds of children and families will have a warm, festive family holiday this year," said Simpson.
The annual Basket Brigade is part of Boys Town South Florida's celebration of National Family Week, November 19-25, emphasizing the connections that support and strengthen families.
