"Willis Foundation in White" event raises more than $34,000 for Tampa Bay charities

TAMPA, Fla. (May 21, 2015) — The Willis Foundation and Willis of Florida in Tampa raised more than $34,000 for local charities at its second annual fundraising event on May 6. Approximately 165 people attended, all attired in white for the “Willis Foundation in White” at the Tampa Bay History Museum in Tampa.

The social event featured food and beverages from the Columbia Cafe, music from Daniel Giron, hand-rolled cigars on the terrace by Arnold Serafin, “white carpet” photos for guests and business networking.

At the event, two local nonprofit organizations – The First Tee Tampa Bay and Family Resources – were each presented with oversized checks representing donations of $2,500.

“First Tee and Family Resources are both near and dear to our hearts and we feel fortunate to be able to raise money to support these worthy causes,” said Jim Doyle, Willis of Florida Managing Partner for Tampa and West Florida. “Thank you to everyone who made this evening possible – our guests, sponsors and event co-chairs – it is because of you that we can continue to support the efforts of nonprofits in our community.”

Representatives from The First Tee Tampa Bay and Family Resources were in attendance, and shared with guests how their organizations work to improve the lives of area citizens. The First Tee program uses the game of golf to provide young people with the chance to develop life-enhancing values like confidence, perseverance and judgment. Family Resources provides crisis counseling, safe shelter and safe respite for runaway and homeless teens.

The Willis Foundation, a nonprofit organization associated with global insurance broker Willis Group Holdings, will use the remainder of the funds raised to support local Tampa Bay charities. Willis of Florida’s Tampa leaders will help select the beneficiaries.

More than 27 local insurance carriers and wholesalers sponsored “Willis Foundation in White.”

About The Willis Foundation:

The Willis Foundation is a nonprofit corporation affiliated with Willis Group Holdings, the global insurance broker. Established in 2010, The Willis Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Nashville, Tennessee. The vision of the Foundation is to encourage Willis Associates and key business partners to participate in charitable activities and engage with the communities Willis serves. Throughout the year, The Willis Foundation organizes fundraising events and, in turn, makes charitable contributions to eligible nonprofit organizations across North America. Grant recipients are nominated by Willis Associates as a vehicle to give back to their communities.

About Willis of Florida:
Willis of Florida is a branch of Willis Group Holdings, a leading global risk advisor, insurance and reinsurance broker. With roots dating to 1828, Willis operates today on every continent with more than 18,000 employees in over 400 offices. Willis offers its clients superior expertise, teamwork, innovation and market-leading products and professional services in risk management and
transfer.