The Benaroyas are recognized for their long-standing support of Breakthrough T1D International
New York (July 11, 2018)— Breakthrough T1D, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, celebrates Sherry and Larry Benaroya’s noteworthy contributions as volunteer supporters with the Distinction in Innovation Award.
The Distinction in Innovation Award is presented to volunteers whose transformational philanthropic leadership has made a significant and positive impact in furthering T1D research.
“Sherry and Larry Benaroya have poured their hearts into the T1D community for more than 30 years,” explains Derek Rapp, Breakthrough T1D President and CEO. “We feel privileged to present this award to the Benaroyas. Their commitment to supporting Breakthrough T1D and its mission has changed the fundraising landscape of the entire organization.”
Following the diagnosis of their son, Michael, Sherry and Larry Benaroya dedicated themselves and rallied an entire community around raising funds for diabetes research and supporting other T1D families. As co-founders of the Seattle Guild and Dream Gala, the Benaroyas have been pivotal members of the Breakthrough T1D community, on both the local and national levels, with Larry formerly serving on the International Board of Directors and Sherry formerly serving as co-chair of The Only Remedy is a Cure Campaign.
Since its inception in 1988, the Seattle Dream Gala has become a model on which Breakthrough T1D’s National Gala Program is built. In 1994 the Benaroyas introduced Fund A Cure, an important, inspiring and impactful “mission moment” which has become the cornerstone of every Breakthrough T1D gala. Thanks to the innovation and creativity of the Benaroyas, gala and Fund A Cure are at the forefront of Breakthrough T1D’s Signature Events. To date, Breakthrough T1D galas have raised more than $1 billion; and of that, Fund A Cure gifts have generated more than $400 million for research.
Breakthrough T1D recognizes and appreciates all of the dedicated volunteers and supporters who commit their lives to the worldwide effort to end T1D. Award recipients received their awards at the annual Breakthrough T1D One Conference.
About Breakthrough T1D
Breakthrough T1D is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. To accomplish this, Breakthrough T1D has invested more than $2.2 billion in research funding since our inception. We are an organization built on a grassroots model of people connecting in their local communities, collaborating regionally for efficiency and broader fundraising impact, and uniting on a national stage to pool resources, passion, and energy. We collaborate with academic institutions, policymakers, and corporate and industry partners to develop and deliver a pipeline of innovative therapies to people living with T1D. Our staff and volunteers throughout the United States and our six international affiliates are dedicated to advocacy, community engagement and our vision of a world without T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.org or follow us on Twitter: @JDRF
Media Contact:
Ayana Young
212.859.7895
media@BreakthroughT1D.org
