Ways to Support the SWFL Heroes Foundation
The SWFL Heroes Foundation exists to support and honor local heroes pursuing first responder careers by providing educational scholarships that help them reach their goals. Each month, the Board of Directors reviews scholarship applications and awards funding throughout the year to qualifying recipients.
This mission began with Julian Keen—and the Foundation’s scholarship efforts continue in his honor, carrying forward the purpose that started it all: helping future first responders take the next step toward the career they’re called to.
This work is made possible through community involvement, business support, and individuals who choose to stand behind the mission in practical ways.
There are several ways to support the SWFL Heroes Foundation—ranging from direct contributions to participation in its primary annual fundraiser, the Southern Swamp Gala.
Direct Donations
Direct donations support the scholarship fund and help the Foundation continue awarding scholarships throughout the year. This is the simplest way to contribute and make an immediate impact.
You can give at any time by using this link: Donate Now
Support Through the Southern Swamp Gala
The Southern Swamp Gala is the Foundation’s primary annual fundraiser and a central way the community comes together in support of its scholarship mission. The gala brings together individuals, families, and local businesses for an evening designed to raise funds, build awareness, and strengthen long-term support for future first responders.
There are several ways to support the SWFL Heroes Foundation through the Southern Swamp Gala.
Attend the Gala
Attending the Southern Swamp Gala directly supports the Foundation’s scholarship efforts. Ticket purchases help fund educational awards while also contributing to the overall success of the event. Attendance plays an important role in creating the atmosphere and momentum that make the gala an effective fundraiser and community gathering.Become a Sponsor
Sponsorship is a key component of the Southern Swamp Gala’s success. Business sponsorships help underwrite event costs, allowing a greater portion of funds raised to be directed toward scholarships rather than expenses. Sponsors play an essential role in making the event financially viable and impactful.In addition to supporting the mission, sponsorship provides businesses with visibility and recognition throughout the event. Sponsoring the gala allows local companies to align their business with a cause centered on service, education, and community investment, while showing tangible support for future first responders.
Partner or Contribute In-Kind
Some businesses support the Southern Swamp Gala by contributing goods, services, or resources that enhance the event experience. In-kind support can include donated items, services, or expertise that help the gala run smoothly and elevate the overall quality of the event. These contributions play a meaningful role in reducing costs and increasing the gala’s fundraising impact.Help Spread the Word
Support for the Southern Swamp Gala also extends beyond financial contributions. Sharing information about the event (sharing FB Posts are the easiest!), encouraging others to attend, and helping raise awareness within the community all contribute to the Foundation’s ability to reach more supporters. Increased visibility helps strengthen attendance, sponsorship participation, and long-term engagement with the mission.Through attendance, sponsorship, partnership, and community involvement, the Southern Swamp Gala serves as a powerful way to support the SWFL Heroes Foundation and honor the legacy of Julian Keen by investing in the future of first responders.
Community & Business Involvement
Support for the SWFL Heroes Foundation extends beyond financial contributions and annual fundraising events. Community involvement and business engagement play an important role in strengthening the Foundation’s reach and ensuring its mission remains visible throughout the year.
Local businesses, organizations, and individuals often support the Foundation by lending their voice, time, or platform to help raise awareness. Sharing information about the scholarship program, encouraging eligible applicants to apply, and helping spread the word within schools, departments, and training programs all contribute to the Foundation’s ability to reach those who may benefit most.
Business involvement also helps reinforce the Foundation’s presence within the community. When local companies align with the mission—whether by supporting events, promoting the Foundation through their networks, or standing publicly behind the cause—it helps normalize and strengthen long-term community support for future first responders.
Individual community members play a role as well. Attending events, engaging with Foundation updates, and helping keep the mission visible ensures the work does not fade between fundraising cycles. This collective involvement helps maintain momentum and continuity throughout the year.
Together, these efforts create a broader support system around the scholarship program—one that reflects shared responsibility and a community-wide commitment to honoring the legacy of Julian Keen and supporting those pursuing careers as first responders.
