David L. Singer Memorial Foundation Honored with Local Hero Award

Special Olympics Florida is thrilled to announce that the David L. Singer Memorial Foundation of South Florida has received the Local Hero Award for its steadfast work to improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

For more than 40 years, the founders of the Foundation have been enthusiastic supporters of Special Olympics Florida and the athletes it serves in South Florida. Their support began while volunteering as members of the North Miami Beach Optimist Club. Initially, the group hosted a field day for Special Olympics athletes which earned the attention of the international program and recognition as a sanctioned Special Olympics competition.

Established in 1991 by Alan H. Singer, a Miami-Dade financial consultant, the Foundation stands as a tribute to his son, David. David, who passed away from cancer in 1989, shared his father's passion for the games, volunteering alongside him and other members of the North Miami Beach Optimist Club.

The event is now called Special Olympics Florida’s Regional Track and Field Games and draws some 600 Special Olympics Florida athletes from Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties each year. The children and grandchildren of the original members are now leading the effort, demonstrating their continued commitment to service and the organization’s mission. The Foundation is also a sponsor of Special Olympics Florida’s Race for Inclusion.

“For 41 years, the David L. Singer Foundation has demonstrated a tireless commitment to helping Special Olympics athletes lead happier, healthier, more satisfying lives,” said Special Olympics Florida President and CEO Sherry Wheelock. “The organization members are passionate advocates for people with intellectual disabilities and we are incredibly grateful to have their support. The Foundation and its leaders are champions of our mission, and we are honored to recognize them with the Special Olympics Florida Local Hero Award.”