I first learned of FLIPANY when I answered a call for volunteers for a “foodie fundraising event to support a charity that focuses on childhood health and nutrition.” It seemed like a perfect fit!
Standing for Florida Introduces Physical Activity and Nutrition to Youth, FLPANY works to empower adults and youth to care about their bodies through customized nutrition programs and physical activity measures. The group also works to influence and change public policy to promote healthier communities throughout the state. This 501c3 non-profit group was founded 12 years ago by current President and CEO, Lynne Kunins. I asked Lynne what inspired her to start FLIPANY. “I found myself in a situation working with kids from a low-income neighborhood, challenging them to set goals, ask for help and have the courage to follow through. These teens changed my life and made me want to serve the community and let everyone know that there is so much to learn from trying,” she replied.
FLIPANY prides itself on advocating for a myriad of innovative programs all designed to help at-risk people in the area through its more than 400 partners spread throughout Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Broward counties. Since 2005, FLIPANY has worked to fight hunger and childhood obesity by developing and implementing initiatives focused on physical education, wellness programs, food security, and nutrition education. FLIPANY achieves these goals through a variety of measures such as different athletics programs, cooking classes, and summer meal services. There are a lot of ways that interested volunteers can become involved in FLIPANY’s innovative programs:
VOLUNTEER TIME: Whatever your strengths and interests, there is something for you at FLIPANY. Volunteers can choose to work directly with the youth in physical activity programs or can put marketing, nutritional knowledge, or administrative skills to work in the office. FLIPANY offers many flexible shifts designed to fit any schedule. Interested people just need to fill out a volunteer availability form.
CHEFS UP FRONT SPONSOR: This is the event that I ran for six years. This is an ideal way for businesses to get involved and support FLIPANY while making a big impact on the community. These August intimate dining events are held in both Miami and Fort Lauderdale, offer guests and sponsors two convenient locations. Sponsors are asked to donate money at a variety of levels to secure their name as an official event sponsor. Enjoy a fine dining experience cooked tableside for you by one of South Florida’s best chefs! If you can’t be a sponsor, come to the event.
FUN RUN SPONSOR: As one of FLIPANY’s annual fundraisers, this event is always successful in raising crucial funds used throughout the year. People and corporations interested in sponsoring this event can help by donating money or products and services. A vast exhibit space gives sponsors the opportunity to promote their business through direct consumer interaction. The fun run also accepts products for the associated silent auction and raffle. People looking for a smaller commitment can choose to sponsor a student running in the event, or attend themselves.