COMMUNITY OF CARING: Health First Golf Classic Breaks Funding Record for Health First Aging Services

Sponsors donated a record-breaking $446,632 for Health First Aging Services

WATCH: Real people. Real help. Support for Aging Services has been life-changing for Donna Crum and her husband, Curt. Married 27 years, Curt was diagnosed with dementia, and Donna was suddenly thrust into a caregiver role.

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Businesses and sponsors donate $446K to the Health First Foundation, which will help Aging Services

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — Brevard’s business leaders and community members got the go-ahead to scrap spreadsheets (and other plans) on April 14 for the Health First Golf Classic and help a cause close to many people’s hearts. 

The event is hosted by the Health First Foundation in support of Health First’s mission to improve the wellness and health of our community. Event proceeds benefit Health First Aging Services and provide seniors and their caregivers with critical resources, education and support.

Sponsors donated a record-breaking $446,632 for Health First Aging Services.

Aging Services supports Brevard’s elder population, striving to keep seniors where they want to be – in their home for as long as possible. In addition, these funds raised from the Golf Classic also help them receive the wellness and health services they need to remain independent.

“Today is really ensuring that our community – and our most vulnerable seniors and their caregivers – will have the resources they need to live safely, independently and with purpose,” said Terry Forde, President and CEO of Health First.

Shane Burnsed of Gilbane Building Company, the title sponsor of this event, loves to hit the greens, especially when it gives back to the community. 

“It’s about coming together to support a cause that touches everyone’s lives in Brevard County,” Burnsed said.

Aging Services includes top-notch programs, such as the Memory Disorder Clinic and the Center for Family Caregivers.

Many with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are chiefly supported by caregivers. Aging Services offers group counseling, education and creative workshops.

Dozens of local, national and even global businesses – plus, let’s not forget individual sponsors – supported the cause – sponsor teams take part in the four-person scramble.

■ Challenge Course winners: Scott Mikuen (individual team sponsor), Keith Pagnani, Dom Nitti and Dan Jimenez

■ Classic Course winners: Dr. Harry Deffebach (individual team sponsor), Steve LaMontagne, Jack Jeffcoat and Aaron Schellhorn

Jeffcoat, a Brevard County realtor and member of a winning golf team, said, “It raises awareness on all aspects of health care. “And we love Health First. We want to take care of our community, watch it continue to grow and strengthen opportunities.”

More about the cause – helping Brevard seniors

Dr. Visa Srinivasan, commonly known as “Dr. Visa,” is the Medical Director for Aging Services. Appearing by video, she thanked the tournament sponsors for their participation and generosity.

“Your support is truly vital to our efforts,” shared Dr. Visa. “Because of you, people living with life-altering illnesses, such as dementia, are able to get the personalized care they need, regardless of their medical, social, economic or financial situation. 

“In addition,” Dr. Visa continued, “because of you, caregivers receive the resources they need through support groups, educational classes, creative workshops and other services. These vital services are all provided free of charge every day, and this could not be done without you. So, thank you for believing in our work and for your commitment to us at Health First.”

Real people. Real help.

Support for Aging Services has been life-changing for Donna Crum and her husband, Curt. Married 27 years, Curt was diagnosed with dementia – and Donna was suddenly thrust into a caregiver role.

“Being in this role can be overwhelming and often feels like everything rests solely on my shoulders,” Donna shared.

It was tough, and Donna described her experience at the Center for Family Caregivers as a “blessing.”

From the first caregiver class she attended, Donna said she immediately felt her burdens lift. Before, she felt like she wasn’t caring for Curt “the right way.” She often felt inadequate.

“I thought asking for help would mean I was failing him,” Donna shared in a video about her experience.

But she quickly learned a powerful lesson – that asking for help isn’t a weakness. It’s a strength. 

“The support I’ve received from the Center has been incredible,” Donna explained.

“They connected me with a team that helps manage all aspects of caregiving. I found a sympathetic ear and practical tools to manage stress along this road, the essentials of caregiving…That class taught me so much about navigating this journey, and it gave me the courage to make hard decisions that improve both our lives.”

Health First Golf Classic Leaders and Sponsors

■ Co-Chairmen: Gene Cavallucci and Bill Potter, Esq. 

■ Health First Golf Classic Major Sponsors

■ Title Sponsor: Gilbane Building Company

■ Diamond Sponsors: 321 The Agency, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, Brevard Physician Associates, W+J Construction

■ Gold Sponsors: 8X8, Care Credit, KHS&S Contractors, Lawrence Group, MedMetrix, Trace3, Scott and Monica Mikuen

■ Silver Sponsors” Bob & Pat Henry

For a complete list of sponsors, please visit 2025 Sponsors – Health First Golf Classic. 

For more information on the Health First Golf Classic, visit HF.org/GolfClassic. To learn more about supporting Health First or sponsoring an upcoming Health First Foundation event, call 321.434.7353 or visit hf.org/foundation.

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