Our Mission
The Dana K. Foundation is dedicated to supporting children with special needs and uplifting families throughout the Tampa Bay community.
Established in loving memory of Dana, the foundation strives to provide meaningful assistance, essential resources, and encouragement to families navigating developmental disabilities and complex medical needs.
Through charitable giving, community partnerships, and continued support of exceptional programs such as Lopez Exceptional Center, we are committed to making a lasting difference, one special stride at a time!
The Heart Behind Every Stride
Before there was a foundation, there was Dana. A beloved daughter and sister whose love for family, walks outdoors, and life's simplest joys continues to inspire us. Take a glimpse into the beautiful memories that shaped her life and the legacy we proudly carry forward.
Her Story. Our Purpose.
The Dana K. Foundation was born from a mother and sister's love, a family's journey, and a desire to turn cherished memories into meaningful impact.
Born with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), Dana faced unique challenges throughout her life, but her story was so much more than her diagnosis.
She found joy in life's simplest pleasures including taking walks, spending time outdoors, and enjoying peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Above all, Dana loved her family! She, her mommy, and her sister (dubbed ‘The Three Amigas’) were inseparable, sharing a bond filled with unconditional love.
Throughout her educational journey, Dana's family searched for a school where she would receive the care and compassion she deserved.
Her mom found that special place at Lopez Exceptional Center, where a remarkable teacher, Mrs. R., cared for Dana as though she were her own.
In July 2020, Dana graduated from Lopez with her high school diploma.
In January 2021, Dana passed away, though her memory continues to live on.
Today, her memory is honored through a memorial garden at Lopez and the donations her family continues to make in her name.
Through the Dana K. Foundation, her story lives on as a source of love, hope, and encouragement for other families.
The foundation's tagline, "Making Strides Special," reflects both Dana’s spirit and our mission to provide support, resources, and encouragement to families raising children with special needs.
OUR IMPACT
A Legacy of Giving
$3,000+
Donated to Lopez Exceptional Center in Dana's Memory*
What began as a family's commitment to honoring Dana, has grown into a mission of giving back. Over the years, our family has contributed more than $3,000 to Lopez Exceptional Center, a school that played a meaningful role in Dana's life. Through the Dana K. Foundation, we hope to extend that same love and support to even more children and families throughout the Tampa Bay community.
*Family contributions made in loving memory of Dana K., prior to the foundation's formal establishment.
How You Can Help Be Part of Every Stride
Volunteer
Share your time and talents at future events.
Donate
Help provide resources and assistance to families.
Partner
Help us build meaningful community partnerships.
Every act of generosity, no matter the size, has the power to make a meaningful difference. Whether through a donation, volunteering, or community partnership, your support helps us continue Dana's legacy and work toward a future where children with special needs and their families feel supported, valued, and celebrated.
Making Strides Special, Together
Making Strides Special, Together
Your generosity helps us work toward providing essential resources, meaningful assistance, and encouragement to families raising children with special needs throughout Tampa Bay.