Kaufman Rossin in the Community: Make-A-Wish Foundation

This blog was originally published on December 11, 2017. It was updated on December 19, 2018.

Steven Demar of Kaufman Rossin talks about his involvement with Make-A-Wish Foundation, whose mission is to grant the wish of every child diagnosed with a critical illness.  

Which organization are you involved in and what is its mission?

Make-A-Wish Foundation is a national organization, and I am involved with its Southern Florida chapter. The organization fulfills the wishes of children between the ages of 2-and-a-half and 18 years old with life-threatening diseases, such as leukemia and other cancers.

Tell us about your role with Make-A-Wish Foundation.

I am currently in a fundraising and advisory role. Previously, I was the chairman of the board and treasurer of the organization. I have been involved in several aspects, including as a wish granter.

What prompted you to get involved with Make-A-Wish Foundation?

For me, it’s gratifying to give back to the community. I have a soft spot for helping kids, and a friend of mine introduced me to the organization more than 15 years ago. I jumped right in and have volunteered with Make-A-Wish Foundation ever since.

What inspired you to coordinate a Tacky Sweater Day for Make-A-Wish Foundation?

I wanted to build awareness of the organization and let people know what it does for children and their families. Someone might have a family member or neighbor who can benefit from the foundation’s efforts.

Kaufman Rossin is truly supportive of our employees’ community involvement, and has been instrumental in my fundraising efforts.  In 2017, we sponsored a Wish in commemoration of the Firm’s 55^th anniversary. This year, we hope to raise enough money to sponsor a wish for a child in memory of our founder Jay Rossin, who passed away this July.

The most important thing for me as part of this organization is to make kids’ dreams come true.

What is your advice for others who are thinking about getting involved in the community?

Find an organization with objectives and a mission you believe in and have a passion for. Enjoy the volunteer work you’ll be doing and don’t simply participate for business reasons. I have a need for giving back, and volunteering with Make-A-Wish satisfies that need. You should feel the same way when helping out organizations of your choice.