Kaufman Rossin in the Community: Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Richard Salinas talks about his community involvement.

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

I am involved with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). MADD’s mission is to stop drunk driving, prevent underage drinking and offer support to victims of drunk-driving accidents.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving

How are you involved in this organization?

I attend events in both the Ft. Lauderdale and Miami area, including 5Ks, candlelight ceremonies and fund raisers. I also put teams together for the aforementioned events in order to raise funds for the continued efforts of the organization.

Why are you passionate about this organization?

On July 14, 2012, my wife’s 22-year-old sister, Decire Febus, and Decire’s 24-year-old fiancé, Bobby Hunsucker, were killed by a drunk driver. It is safe to say that my wife and her family have never been the same again. MADD events have given her a forum to be around other victims whom she can relate to, and the organization has helped to facilitate the healing process for my wife and family. MADD also provides victim services, including providing information about victims’ rights, supportive literature and a 24/7 help line. I have personally witnessed the impact MADD has on victims and families.

How has Kaufman, Rossin contributed to your success with this organization?

Kaufman Rossin offers a flexible schedule, enabling me to take some time out of my schedule to volunteer.

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

Prior to my involvement with MADD, I wasn’t very involved in the community because I struggled to find a cause I was passionate about. My advice to others looking to get involved is this: find something that you care about and that you want to invest your time and effort into. If it’s something you are not passionate about, then it will not be sustainable long-term. However, when you find the group or cause that you do care about, the challenge becomes holding back your time, rather than giving it up. The feeling of helping others and making a difference in the community makes your time commitment worth it.