WELCOME TO FRIENDSHIP THAT GIVES
ADVANCING HEALTH EQUITY. EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES. TRANSFORMING LIVES.
Friendship That Gives is a culturally responsive health-equity and patient-advocacy organization educating, connecting, and empowering individuals, caregivers, and families affected by Amyloidosis, Parkinson’s disease, chronic illness, and mental wellness challenges—particularly within Black and historically underserved communities.
Through trusted health education, community conversations, patient and caregiver advocacy, strategic partnerships, and culturally relevant programming, we help people become informed, supported, and prepared to advocate for better health outcomes.
YOU DESERVE TO BE SEEN, HEARD, INFORMED, AND SUPPORTED.
A serious or chronic health condition affects more than the body. It can influence a person’s emotional wellness, relationships, faith, finances, career, and sense of identity. Caregivers and families are also required to navigate complicated healthcare systems, changing responsibilities, and difficult decisions—often without adequate information or support.
These challenges can be even greater in Black and historically underserved communities, where delayed diagnoses, unequal access to specialists, limited representation in clinical research, financial barriers, and mistrust of healthcare systems can negatively affect outcomes.
Friendship That Gives exists to help close those gaps.
We bring patients, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, pharmacists, faith leaders, civic organizations, corporations, and community advocates together to turn education into action. Our goal is not simply to raise awareness. We equip people with information, connections, and practical tools that help them participate confidently in their healthcare journeys.
WHO WE SERVE
SUPPORTING PEOPLE THROUGH EVERY SEASON OF THE HEALTH JOURNEY
Whether you are seeking answers, caring for someone you love, looking for community resources, or searching for a meaningful way to create impact, Friendship That Gives welcomes you.
01
PATIENTS AND INDIVIDUALS
Access trusted educational information, prepare for conversations with your care team, learn how to advocate for yourself, and connect with supportive resources.
02
CAREGIVERS AND FAMILIES
03
HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
04
FAITH, CIVIC, AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
Bring relevant health education directly to the communities you serve through workshops, panel discussions, screenings, advocacy initiatives, and the Fashionably Healthy Community Conversations Empowerment Series.
05
CORPORATIONS AND FOUNDATIONS
Support measurable community impact through sponsorships, employee engagement, program investment, in-kind contributions, matching gifts, and strategic partnerships.
WHO WE SERVE
SUPPORTING PEOPLE THROUGH EVERY SEASON OF THE HEALTH JOURNEY
AMYLOIDOSIS AWARENESS
Amyloidosis is a group of diseases involving abnormal protein deposits that can affect the heart, kidneys, nerves, liver, digestive system, and other organs. Some forms can be hereditary and may disproportionately affect people of African ancestry.
We promote greater awareness, informed conversations with healthcare professionals, appropriate referrals, patient advocacy, and the importance of representation in research.
PARKINSON’S DISEASE
Parkinson’s disease can affect movement, speech, sleep, mental wellness, and many other aspects of daily life. Black patients may experience delayed recognition, barriers to specialty care, and lower participation in clinical research.
We help communities recognize concerns that should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional while connecting patients and caregivers with educational and supportive resources.
CAREGIVING
Caregivers are often the unseen foundation of a family’s healthcare journey. We center caregiver voices and address emotional wellness, role reversal, communication with care teams, respite, resource navigation, and the importance of building a dependable village.
MENTAL WELLNESS AND CHRONIC ILLNESS
Caregivers are often the unseen foundation of a family’s healthcare journey. We center caregiver voices and address emotional wellness, role reversal, communication with care teams, respite, resource navigation, and the importance of building a dependable village.
HEALTH EQUITY AND PATIENT ADVOCACY
Everyone deserves to receive respectful, informed, and compassionate healthcare. We teach individuals how to prepare for appointments, describe symptoms clearly, ask questions, understand options, seek additional opinions when appropriate, and participate actively in decisions about their health.
SIGNATURE PROGRAM
FASHIONABLY HEALTHY COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS EMPOWERMENT SERIES
WHERE HEALTH, CULTURE, COMMUNITY, AND ADVOCACY CONNECT
The Fashionably Healthy Community Conversations Empowerment Series brings trusted health information into accessible, culturally familiar community spaces.
Our conversations unite patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, pharmacists, researchers, mental wellness professionals, faith leaders, civic organizations, and corporate partners for meaningful discussions about the health concerns affecting our communities.
Each experience is designed to move participants from awareness to informed action.
Programs may include:
- Amyloidosis and Parkinson’s disease awareness
- Chronic and rare disease education
- Caregiver health and emotional wellness
- Mental health and stigma reduction
- Patient advocacy and communicating with clinicians
- Health equity and culturally responsive care
- Clinical research participation and representation
- Nutrition, movement, prevention, and whole-person wellness
- Community resource navigation
Empowerment
Through our meticulously curated Empowerment Series events, we strive to equip individuals with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration they need to take control of their lives and reach their full potential.
Inspiration
We believe in the power of stories, ideas, and experiences to ignite passion and drive positive change. Our events are designed to inspire action, creativity, and a sense of purpose in all who attend.
Impact
We measure our success not only by the number of attendees but by the tangible difference we make in the lives of those we touch. From community outreach programs to fundraising initiatives.
- About Us
About Us
Empowering Through Inspired Programming with Purpose
Our Mission:
Friendship That Gives aims to empower lives, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting impact through compassion, community, and education.
Guided by our core values, we are committed to serving individuals and families facing life's challenges—whether they stem from health conditions, financial barriers, or other circumstances.
We believe in unity and strive to build supportive networks that unite people while raising awareness and providing resources for critical causes like Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other community-driven needs.
With a focus on integrity, empowerment, and measurable impact, we are dedicated to creating programs that inspire change, equip individuals with the tools to thrive and strengthen the communities we serve.
Our Mission: To empower, inspire, and impact lives through purposeful events that foster personal growth and community engagement.
Our Vision: To create a world where compassion reigns, dreams are realized, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
- Our Mission: To empower, inspire, and impact lives through purposeful events that foster personal growth and community engagement.
- Our Vision: To create a world where compassion reigns, dreams are realized, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Our Mission:
At Friendship That Gives, our mission is to empower lives, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting impact through compassion, community, and education.
Guided by our core values, we are committed to serving individuals and families facing life's challenges—whether they stem from health conditions, financial barriers, or other circumstances.
We believe in the power of unity and strive to build supportive networks that bring people together, while raising awareness and providing resources for critical causes like Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other community-driven needs.
With a focus on integrity, empowerment, and measurable impact, we are dedicated to creating programs that inspire change, equip individuals with the tools to thrive, and strengthen the communities we serve.
Our Mission: To empower, inspire, and impact lives through purposeful events that foster personal growth and community engagement.
Our Vision: To create a world where compassion reigns, dreams are realized, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
- Our Mission: To empower, inspire, and impact lives through purposeful events that foster personal growth and community engagement.
- Our Vision: To create a world where compassion reigns, dreams are realized, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
- About Us
Overview
Empowering Lives, Building Communities Through Purposeful Friendship
Friendship That Gives is more than just a tagline—it’s a philosophy that drives everything we do. We are unwavering in our dedication to empowering individuals, inspiring communities, and creating meaningful change through intentional and impactful events. Each of our efforts is designed to uplift lives, foster connections, and ignite the spark of possibility within everyone we touch.
Our focus is twofold: community engagement and personal growth. We believe that strong, supportive communities are the foundation of a brighter future. Through our events, we bring people together to share ideas, collaborate, and build lasting relationships that transcend barriers. Whether it’s through workshops, outreach programs, or celebrations of shared achievements, our goal is to strengthen the bonds that hold us together and cultivate a culture of giving back.
At the same time, we are passionate about empowering individuals to reach their full potential. We design experiences that inspire self-reflection, nurture talents, and foster the confidence needed to chase dreams. By encouraging personal growth, we help individuals unlock their unique abilities and channel them into making a difference, not just for themselves but for those around them.
Each event is more than an occasion—it’s a transformative experience. From opportunities to serve others to moments of celebration and learning, we carefully curate every detail to ensure it resonates deeply with our participants. We strive to ignite passion, awaken purpose, and create a ripple effect of positivity and kindness.
With Friendship That Gives, we invite you to be part of something larger than yourself. Together, let’s inspire hope, spread joy, and drive meaningful change. Join us as we prove that friendship, fueled by action and purpose, has the power to reshape
lives and uplift entire communities.
Our Mission:
Friendship That Gives aims to empower lives, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting impact through compassion, community, and education. Guided by our core values, we are committed to serving individuals and families facing life's challenges—whether they stem from health conditions, financial barriers, or other circumstances.
We believe in unity and strive to build supportive networks that unite people while raising awareness and providing resources for critical causes like Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other community-driven needs.
With a focus on integrity, empowerment, and measurable impact, we are dedicated to creating programs that inspire change, equip individuals with the tools to thrive and strengthen the communities we serve.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The inception of Friendship That Gives was inspired by a deeply personal and transformative journey rather than a single moment. As I watched my parents struggle with Parkinson’s disease and Amyloidosis, I witnessed firsthand the immense physical, emotional, and mental toll these diseases take—not only on the individuals battling them but also on their families.
For Black families, health disparities and systemic barriers make early diagnosis and effective treatment even more challenging to achieve. I couldn’t just sit back and watch this happen; I felt a profound personal responsibility to act—something more than just raising awareness, but something that could make a difference.
Thus, Friendship That Gives was born: a mission-driven organization to honor my parents’ legacy and ensure that no family facing these diseases has to navigate this journey in isolation. This work is about more than raising awareness; it’s about building a supportive, informed, and empowered community. It’s about advocating for better healthcare, inclusive research, and improved outcomes for all families affected by these diseases.
To every individual and family facing the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or Amyloidosis—you are not alone. At Friendship That Gives, we see you. We honor your journey. We stand with you. Whether newly diagnosed, a long-time warrior, or a caregiver supporting a loved one, your strength, resilience, and courage inspire us daily. We understand that these diseases impact more than just the body—they touch every facet of life: relationships, hopes, faith, and identity.
Jonathan L. Dotson
The inception of Friendship That Gives was inspired by a deeply personal and transformative journey rather than a single moment. As I watched my parents struggle with Parkinson’s disease and Amyloidosis, I witnessed firsthand the immense physical, emotional, and mental toll these diseases take—not only on the individuals battling them but also on their families.
Thus, Friendship That Gives was born: a mission-driven organization to honor my parents’ legacy and ensure that no family facing these diseases has to navigate this journey in isolation. This work is about more than raising awareness; it’s about building a supportive, informed, and empowered community. It’s about advocating for better healthcare, inclusive research, and improved outcomes for all families affected by these diseases.
To every individual and family facing the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or Amyloidosis—you are not alone. At Friendship That Gives, we see you. We honor your journey. We stand with you. Whether newly diagnosed, a long-time warrior, or a caregiver supporting a loved one, your strength, resilience, and courage inspire us daily. We understand that these diseases impact more than just the body—they touch every facet of life: relationships, hopes, faith, and identity.
Jonathan L. Dotson
- About Us
Overview
Empowering Lives, Building Communities Through Purposeful Friendship
Friendship That Gives is more than just a tagline—it’s a philosophy that drives everything we do. We are unwavering in our dedication to empowering individuals, inspiring communities, and creating meaningful change through intentional and impactful events. Each of our efforts is designed to uplift lives, foster connections, and ignite the spark of possibility within everyone we touch.
Our focus is twofold: community engagement and personal growth. We believe that strong, supportive communities are the foundation of a brighter future. Through our events, we bring people together to share ideas, collaborate, and build lasting relationships that transcend barriers. Whether it’s through workshops, outreach programs, or celebrations of shared achievements, our goal is to strengthen the bonds that hold us together and cultivate a culture of giving back.
At the same time, we are passionate about empowering individuals to reach their full potential. We design experiences that inspire self-reflection, nurture talents, and foster the confidence needed to chase dreams. By encouraging personal growth, we help individuals unlock their unique abilities and channel them into making a difference, not just for themselves but for those around them.
Each event is more than an occasion—it’s a transformative experience. From opportunities to serve others to moments of celebration and learning, we carefully curate every detail to ensure it resonates deeply with our participants. We strive to ignite passion, awaken purpose, and create a ripple effect of positivity and kindness.
With Friendship That Gives, we invite you to be part of something larger than yourself. Together, let’s inspire hope, spread joy, and drive meaningful change. Join us as we prove that friendship, fueled by action and purpose, has the power to reshape
lives and uplift entire communities.
Our Mission:
Friendship That Gives aims to empower lives, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting impact through compassion, community, and education. Guided by our core values, we are committed to serving individuals and families facing life's challenges—whether they stem from health conditions, financial barriers, or other circumstances.
We believe in unity and strive to build supportive networks that unite people while raising awareness and providing resources for critical causes like Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other community-driven needs.
With a focus on integrity, empowerment, and measurable impact, we are dedicated to creating programs that inspire change, equip individuals with the tools to thrive and strengthen the communities we serve.
Friendship That Gives: Impacting Lives, Inspiring Change
In 2024, Friendship That Gives remained steadfast in its mission to empower, inspire, and uplift—impacting the lives of 11,583 individuals through intentional acts of service, community engagement, and transformative events.
Beyond these signature initiatives, our broader community efforts ensured that thousands of lives were touched with hope, resources, and encouragement. Every event, every gift, and every moment of connection reinforced our belief that Friendship isn’t just a word—it’s an action.
As we reflect on this incredible impact, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters, partners, and volunteers who make this work possible. Together, we are building a legacy of Friendship That Gives—today, tomorrow, and always.
Be a Part of the Impact
Join us as we continue to create meaningful change in 2025 and beyond. Learn how you can support our mission
IMPACT MADE THROUGH FRIENDSHIP THAT GIVES in 2024 TOTAL SERVED 11,583
IMPACT MADE THROUGH FRIENDSHIP THAT GIVES SINCE 2024 TOTAL SERVED 285,212
OUR 2025 PROGRAMMING
Our Mission:
Friendship That Gives aims to empower lives, foster meaningful connections, and create lasting impact through compassion, community, and education. Guided by our core values, we are committed to serving individuals and families facing life's challenges—whether they stem from health conditions, financial barriers, or other circumstances.
We believe in unity and strive to build supportive networks that unite people while raising awareness and providing resources for critical causes like Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other community-driven needs.
With a focus on integrity, empowerment, and measurable impact, we are dedicated to creating programs that inspire change, equip individuals with the tools to thrive and strengthen the communities we serve.
Overview
Friendship That Gives is more than just a tagline—it’s a philosophy that drives everything we do. We are unwavering in our dedication to empowering individuals, inspiring communities, and creating meaningful change through intentional and impactful events. Each of our efforts is designed to uplift lives, foster connections, and ignite the spark of possibility within everyone we touch.
Our focus is twofold: community engagement and personal growth. We believe that strong, supportive communities are the foundation of a brighter future. Through our events, we bring people together to share ideas, collaborate, and build lasting relationships that transcend barriers. Whether it’s through workshops, outreach programs, or celebrations of shared achievements, our goal is to strengthen the bonds that hold us together and cultivate a culture of giving back.
At the same time, we are passionate about empowering individuals to reach their full potential. We design experiences that inspire self-reflection, nurture talents, and foster the confidence needed to chase dreams. By encouraging personal growth, we help individuals unlock their unique abilities and channel them into making a difference, not just for themselves but for those around them.
Each event is more than an occasion—it’s a transformative experience. From opportunities to serve others to moments of celebration and learning, we carefully curate every detail to ensure it resonates deeply with our participants. We strive to ignite passion, awaken purpose, and create a ripple effect of positivity and kindness.
With Friendship That Gives, we invite you to be part of something larger than yourself. Together, let’s inspire hope, spread joy, and drive meaningful change. Join us as we prove that friendship, fueled by action and purpose, has the power to reshape
lives and uplift entire communities.
Goal
Our core values—Compassion, Community, Education & Awareness, Empowerment, Integrity, and Impact—shape our approach to education, advocacy, and support in profound ways:
01
Education
- Knowledge as a Catalyst for Change – We believe that awareness leads to action, so we prioritize providing communities with credible, accessible information about Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other critical issues.
- Empowering the Next Generation – Through initiatives like the Annual College and Career Expo, we help young people make informed decisions about their futures, ensuring they have access to opportunities that align with their aspirations.
- Culturally Relevant Learning – We tailor our educational efforts to meet the needs of diverse communities, making sure that information is relatable, engaging, and actionable.
02
Advocacy
- Speaking Up for the Underserved – We use our platform to amplify the voices of those affected by health disparities and social injustices, ensuring they receive the support they need.
- Collaborating with Experts & Organizations – Our partnerships with health professionals, researchers, and advocacy groups allow us to drive change at both the community and policy levels.
- Fighting for Access & Equity – We advocate for better healthcare access, early detection programs, and increased research efforts, particularly in underserved communities disproportionately affected by diseases like Parkinson’s and Amyloidosis.
03
Support
- Providing Direct Assistance – Through programs like the Annual Tuxedo Giveaway and Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway, we meet immediate needs while fostering dignity and joy.
- Creating Safe Spaces for Healing & Growth – Initiatives like We Are One: One Heart, Many Hearts Couples Empowerment Retreat offer emotional and relational support for individuals and families navigating life’s challenges.
- Building Stronger Networks – Whether through mentoring, peer support, or community events, we ensure that no one faces their struggles alone.
What We Do
Empowering Communities, Supporting Lives
Friendship That Gives is committed to providing diverse resources, programs, and services designed to uplift individuals, families, and communities affected by Parkinson’s Disease, Amyloidosis, and other critical health challenges. Our mission is to equip individuals and families with the education, support, and resources they need to navigate life’s challenges with dignity, resilience, and hope. Through our programs and initiatives, we strive to bridge gaps, strengthen communities, and inspire lasting change. Our holistic approach combines education, support, advocacy, and empowerment to create a meaningful and lasting impact.
Awareness & Education Programs
Fashionably Healthy Empowerment Series: A series of engaging discussions, health panels, and community conversations to raise awareness about Parkinson's Disease, Amyloidosis, and overall wellness within the Black community.
Partnerships with Healthcare Institutions
Collaborating with organizations like BlackDoctor.org, Community Health of South Florida, FIU's Robert Stempel College of Public Health, and Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences to provide accurate and reliable health education and resources.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Leveraging social media, community events, and storytelling to increase knowledge about these diseases and promote the importance of early detection.
Community Support & Outreach Initiatives
Annual College & Career Expo: Providing academic, career opportunities, and financial literacy resources to help students prepare for higher education and professional success.
Annual Tuxedo Giveaway
Supporting young men by providing tuxedos for prom and special events, reducing financial burdens, and enhancing confidence.
Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway
Spreading holiday cheer by providing gifts to needy children and supporting families facing financial hardships during the festive season.
- Why Choose Us
Why Choose Us
Your Catalyst for Personal Growth Events.
Commitment to Empowerment
We are dedicated to providing experiences that empower individuals to reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.
Inspiring Atmosphere
Our events are curated to inspire creativity, ignite passion, and foster a sense of purpose in all attendees.
Transformative Events
Experience events that go beyond entertainment, focusing on personal growth, community engagement, and societal impact.
Lasting Impact
By choosing us, you're not just attending an event; you're joining a movement dedicated to creating positive, lasting change in the world.
- Events
Discover Our Inspiring Event Series Today!
Veterans
Because You Served Breakfast Series
Honoring and supporting veterans, often at higher risk for neurological diseases, by offering resources, networking opportunities, and recognition for their invaluable service.
We Are One: One Heart, Many Hearts Couples Empowerment Retreat
A retreat designed to support couples dealing with health challenges, caregiving responsibilities, and personal growth in their relationships.
Advocacy & Health Equity Initiatives
Health Disparities & Equity Efforts: Ensuring equitable access to early screenings, quality healthcare, and opportunities to engage in clinical research for Black and underserved communities.
Policy & Community Engagement
Partnering with medical institutions, nonprofit organizations, and policymakers to advocate for increased funding, research, and support services for Parkinson's and Amyloidosis.
Caregiver Support & Resources:
Offering guidance, workshops, and a support network for caregivers managing the challenges of caring for loved ones impacted by these diseases.
Financial Relief & Resource Connection
Connecting Families to Financial Assistance: Helping families access financial aid for healthcare, education, and other essential needs.
Scholarships & Mentorship
Providing scholarships and mentorship opportunities to assist students in achieving their educational goals and accessing higher education funding.
Partnering for Financial and Medical Support
Collaborating with organizations offering financial aid, medical resources, and direct support to needy patients.
Community Discussions with Medical Professionals
Organizing events with healthcare experts to ensure underrepresented groups have access to the latest treatments and advancements in care.
Testimonial
- Testimonial
See What Others Are Saying
"FTG Events provided me with the tools, motivation, and support I needed to pursue my dreams. It's more than just an event; it's a catalyst for personal growth and community empowerment."
"I've been to many events, but FTG Events stands out for its genuine commitment to making a positive impact. It's not just about inspiration; it's about taking action and creating change."
"Attending FTG Events was truly transformative. The speakers were inspiring, the atmosphere was electric, and I left feeling empowered to make a difference in my community."
- Contact Us
Contact Us
Get in Touch: We're Here to Help
Have questions or want to get involved? Reach out to us today! Our team is here to assist you in any way we can. Contact us now to start your journey.
info@friendshipthatgives.org
Call Now
786.828.2290
Location
9500 SW 174th Street, Suite 152, Miami, FL 33157
Join Us in Making Impactful Change!
Ready to make a difference? Join us in our mission to empower, inspire, and impact lives. Explore our upcoming events, get involved in our initiatives, or simply reach out to learn more. Together, we can create positive change.
Join Us in Making Impactful Change!
- Blog's
Our Latest Blog's & Article
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