Community Foundation Fund Created by Miki and Billy Davis Grants $10,000 for Suicide Prevention

(left to right: Maureen Dunleavy, Regional Vice President of Guidance/Care Center; Miki and Billy Davis; Community Foundation CEO Jennifer McComb; back left – Guidance/Care Center Crisis Counselor Kel Bedard)

Turning a personal tragedy into an opportunity to help others, a long-time Keys family has worked with the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys to make its first grant from the Aaron Davis Broadaway Suicide Prevention Fund.

“The Guidance/Care Center is honored to receive a $10,000 gift from the Aaron Davis Broadaway Suicide Prevention Fund, which will enhance our programming to prevent suicide and suicide attempts. The Guidance/Care Center is a proud provider of these services, and we are so grateful for this opportunity to save lives in our community as one more life lost is one too many,” said Guidance/Care Center’s Regional Vice President Maureen Dunleavy.

Billy Davis and Miki Yaras-Davis created the fund last year after their grandson died by suicide. Their wish is to make a difference and aid others, raise awareness for the alarming number of suicides that occur each year, and honor their grandson Aaron’s memory. During his life, Aaron often spent time in the Keys visiting his grandparents and volunteering with his grandfather, Billy Davis, who Aaron called “Big Guy.” They would assist numerous local nonprofits and serve others. According to Billy, “Many people knew Aaron and he was part of the fabric of this community.”

The Davis’ are hopeful that others who have gone through this tragic experience will donate to the fund so it can provide ongoing support to local nonprofits for suicide prevention programs and training and benefit those at risk, especially young people, in Monroe County. “Helping others is the best way to honor Aaron,” Billy said.

Information about the Aaron Davis Broadaway Suicide Prevention Fund and how to donate is available at cffk.org/suicideTo create a fund in honor of someone you love or a cause important to you, contact Jennifer McComb at [email protected] or 305-809-4991.

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