The Foundation was founded in Rochester, NY in 1985 by Tom Golisano, now a resident of Naples, Florida. Golisano’s personal philanthropy has already touched healthcare and child development activities in Florida helping make possible the new Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, and Golisano Children’s Museum in Naples. His support for Special Olympics Health globally has also benefitted Special Olympics Florida athletes through numerous health screening programs and fitness events.

Golisano’s foundation is focused on opening doors and forging unprecedented partnerships to ensure that individuals with intellectual and development disabilities have pathways to self-sufficiency, personal dignity, and the best possible expression of their abilities and talents throughout their lifetimes.

“Our vision is for communities to encourage and embrace inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Ann Costello, Executive Director. “We are looking forward to learning more about existing services and needs in Southwest Florida, and how we might support people with IDD and their families.”

Costello has been meeting with agencies in several counties in the service area of Lee and Collier counties and will expand visits to the surrounding area over time.

The Foundation’s first grant in Southwest Florida is a $300,000 grant to Best Buddies to establish and expand its work in the area. Just announced, the grant is providing support for program operations to develop one-to-one friendship opportunities for students with and without disabilities in schools from elementary to collegiate level.

Over time, the Golisano Foundation will form a Southwest Florida Advisory Review Committee, comprised of local citizens who are familiar and connected with community-based organizations in the area to assist with the application process.