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We Play It Forward Foundation gives voice to families battling diseases that steal memories and time — from Alzheimer’s to Sanfilippo Syndrome.

Because no one should face silence alone.

Where Fun Fuels Philanthropy

We Play It Forward Foundation, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our EIN is 33-4181243

Past Honorees

Dr. Robert Melillo

www.drrobertmelillo.com

iHeart Radio and WOR Radio Host Xen Sams

We bring people together through play—to honor memories, uplift families, and fuel hope in the fight against Sanfilippo syndrome.

Every swing and every laugh shared helps fund care, spark awareness, and remind us why we give: because love is never forgotten.

"Local Contributors"

It’s Greek to Me / Syosset

Paces Steak House / Smithtown

Kashi / Syosset

C & S Nails / Syosset

Venus Nails / Jericho

Outback Steakhouse / Westbury

Sunny Atlantic Beach Club / Atlantic Beach

Joyful Foot Spa / Plainview

National Event Connection / Bohemia

Wild Honey / Oyster Bay

Main Event / Plainview

Gusto Divino Trattoria / Seaford

Hama Sushi / Plainview

Dennys / Plainview

Gold Coast Kids / Jericho

MJ Beanz Toy Store / Plainview

Ask Alice / Syosset

Ray Leventhal Clothes / Plainview

Ambiance / Roslyn

Cold Spring Chiropractic / Syosset
Chris & Tonys / Syosset
Thom Thom Steak & Seafood / Wantagh
Laser Essentials by MaryAnn / Syosset
Mulberry Street / Jericho
Gusto Divino / Seaford

Ruth Chris / Garden City

Lia’s / Syosset

Hilltop Kitchen & Bar / Syosset

Jerrie Shop / Woodbury

Butera’s / Syosset

Bens Deli / Woodbury

Jennifer Ann Cosmetics / Syosset

Stow & Behold

Salon Entourage / Syosset

Allison Yaris Interiors

Champion Limo / Plainview

Besito / Huntington

The Farm Italy / Huntington

Past Events

Spotlight Families

Carrie & Haidyn Fowler

Instagram @haidynshope

"Heartfelt Thanks
to our Major Sponsors"

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GREAT CAUSES

We are proud to sponsor these charities:

Cure Sanfilippo Foundation

We have a clear mission: to advocate for and fund research that could give children with Sanfilippo syndrome a chance at a better life by finding a treatment or cure for the disease. Cure Sanfilippo Foundation is a place to join with other parents and families going through the same thing, and be part of changing the fate for children with Sanfilippo. We do this together, primarily through advocacy, spreading awareness, and fundraising. We believe that working together creates exponential power and opportunity to find a treatment or cure for Sanfilippo.

Learn More: https://curesanfilippofoundation.org/

ABOUT US

We Play It Forward Foundation was born from love, legacy, and a shared desire to turn compassion into action. Our journey began with a single, heartfelt mission — to lift families touched by Alzheimer’s and create joyful experiences that fuel meaningful philanthropy.

Through golf, music, and play, we rallied a community around Alzheimer’s awareness and support — proving that fun can truly fund change. But as our platform grew, so did our purpose. Today, We Play It Forward amplifies the voices of families and causes that are too often unheard — those facing rare, devastating, and life-altering diseases.

In 2025, our focus turns to Sanfilippo Syndrome, often called “childhood Alzheimer’s”. We partnered with the Cure Sanfilippo Foundation and families that are affected by this rare disease. Their courage mirrors the same spirit that first inspired us — love, resilience, and hope for a cure. Our foundation now stands as a bridge between compassion and capacity — giving small organizations and brave families a national voice through our events, our media partners, and our ever-growing community of supporters.

We Play It Forward Foundation — Where fun fuels philanthropy, and every voice finds its echo.

SPOTLIGHT FAMILIES

At the heart of our mission are the incredible families who turn everyday life into extraordinary advocacy. These are parents, siblings, and loved ones who have become powerful voices in their communities—and across the nation—raising awareness, inspiring action, and driving critical support for research toward a cure.

Each Spotlight Family brings a unique story of resilience, love, and unwavering determination. They organize local events, share their journeys publicly, and connect with others affected by rare disease—ensuring no one feels alone in this fight. Through fundraising efforts, community partnerships, and advocacy at every level, they help fuel progress and expand hope for families everywhere.

We are honored to shine a light on these champions of change. Their courage motivates us, their voices amplify our mission, and their commitment pushes research closer to a cure. Join us in celebrating their impact and supporting their ongoing work to transform awareness into action.