FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30, 2025
Contact: Thank You First Responder PR
(954)762-7000 | Media@ThankYouFirstResponder.org
@ThankYouFirstResponder
Las Olas Wellness Weekend Celebrates Health & First Responders September 11-14
U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds to deliver Keynote Address at 9/11 “Never Forget Event” Opening Ceremony
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – July 30, 2025 – The Las Olas Wellness Weekend 2025 will launch on Thursday, September 11, with a memorable “Never Forget Event” Opening Ceremony at the Riverwalk 9/11 Memorial from 7 to 8 p.m. This flagship event features a keynote address by U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds (FL-19) who represents Naples and S.W. Florida, and honors local first responders while promoting mental health, physical wellness, and community connection. Running through September 14, this South Florida wellness event brings together health enthusiasts, nonprofits, and businesses to celebrate holistic wellness and pay tribute to everyday heroes in Fort Lauderdale.
The opening ceremony will also feature remarks from State Representative Chip LaMarca, Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Ben Sorensen, and David Greenberg who will share his personal 9/11 experience. An after-event at The Wharf will follow, including giveaways for First Responders. Proceeds from the opening ceremony will benefit the Thank You First Responder Organization (TYFRO) and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting vital programs for First Responders and their families.
“We are coming together as a community to support the physical and mental strength of our local First Responders, and we are delighted that Congressman Byron Donalds can join us for this important 9/11 remembrance. It’s our chance to show local heroes that we will always stand with them,” said Florida State Representative Chip LaMarca, a 2023 recipient of TYFRO’s ”Culture of Thank You” award.
Stanton Smith, co-founder of Thank You First Responder, emphasized the event’s significance: “The ‘Never Forget Event’ and the Las Olas Wellness Weekend are more than just a celebration of health and wellness; they’re a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering dedication of our First Responders. We are incredibly proud to create a space where the community can connect, thrive, and show their gratitude for the heroes who keep us safe every day.”
Event Includes Educational Outreach and Leadership Training
The remembrance event and recognition of First Responders will include:
- A partnership with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, offering educational resources through its 9/11 Institute and Curriculum to K-12 students in Broward County.
- Educational outreach by TYFRO partner WhiteFlag App, a free and anonymous 24/7 mental health peer-support platform recently featured on CBS Good Morning America.
- A free leadership course from the John Maxwell Leadership Foundation, designed for first responders and service-disabled veterans.
Weekend to Feature Wellness Activities and Community Connection
Throughout the weekend, attendees can participate in various activities at locations including the Riverwalk 9/11 Memorial, The Wharf, and the breezeway of FLOW at 221 S.W. 1st Ave. The schedule includes fitness classes, local health and wellness vendors, and food options. Activities are designed to nourish the mind and body, with offerings like yoga classes and a Nameless Run Club event. The event concludes Sunday with a Miami Dolphins vs New England Patriots watch party at 1 p.m. at The Wharf. See the full schedule at LasOlasWellnessWeekend.com.
Sponsorship and Exhibitor Opportunities Available
Sponsors and exhibitors can connect with an engaged audience at the Las Olas Wellness Weekend. For sponsorship or exhibitor opportunities, contact Stanton Smith at 954.762.7000 or email Sponsor@ThankYouFirstResponder.org.
Current event sponsors and partners include The Wharf, Flow Life, Ukiah Restaurant, Pura Vida Miami, WhiteFlag APP, John Maxwell Foundation, Las Olas Yoga, CycleBar, Team IP, Diadem Sports, Broward County Property Appraiser, Sweat 440, the Riverwalk Committee, and the City of Fort Lauderdale.
About Thank You First Responder
Thank You First Responder (TYFRO) is a national grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2014 to raise awareness, support, celebrate, and honor first responders. Most importantly, TYFRO strives to create a “Culture of Thank You” for the difficult job first responders do every day, putting their lives on the line to protect and enhance our country and way of life. Through initiatives like providing Mental Health First Aid resources, the Local Heroes Program, and the “Culture of Thank You” Award, TYFRO is dedicated to supporting the efforts and sacrifices of first responders. TYFRO also successfully spearheaded the creation of National First Responders Day, celebrated annually on Oct. 28th. Watch our Official Music Video. For more information, please visit ThankYouFirstResponder.org, call 954.762.7000 or email media@ThankYoufirstResponder.org. Nonprofit Tax ID # 47-2886226. #ThankYouFirstResponder #CultureOfThankYou #TYFRO #LocalHeroes #NeverForgetEvent #LasOlasWellnessWeekend
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