The Benaroyas are recognized for their long-standing support of JDRF International

New York (July 11, 2018)— JDRF, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, celebrates Sherry and Larry Benaroya’s noteworthy contributions as volunteer supporters with the Distinction in Innovation Award.

The Distinction in Innovation Award is presented to volunteers whose transformational philanthropic leadership has made a significant and positive impact in furthering T1D research.

“Sherry and Larry Benaroya have poured their hearts into the T1D community for more than 30 years,” explains Derek Rapp, JDRF President and CEO. “We feel privileged to present this award to the Benaroyas. Their commitment to supporting JDRF and its mission has changed the fundraising landscape of the entire organization.”

Following the diagnosis of their son, Michael, Sherry and Larry Benaroya dedicated themselves and rallied an entire community around raising funds for diabetes research and supporting other T1D families. As co-founders of the Seattle Guild and Dream Gala, the Benaroyas have been pivotal members of the JDRF community, on both the local and national levels, with Larry formerly serving on the International Board of Directors and Sherry formerly serving as co-chair of The Only Remedy is a Cure Campaign.

Since its inception in 1988, the Seattle Dream Gala has become a model on which JDRF’s National Gala Program is built. In 1994 the Benaroyas introduced Fund A Cure, an important, inspiring and impactful “mission moment” which has become the cornerstone of every JDRF gala. Thanks to the innovation and creativity of the Benaroyas, gala and Fund A Cure are at the forefront of JDRF’s Signature Events. To date, JDRF galas have raised more than $1 billion; and of that, Fund A Cure gifts have generated more than $400 million for research.

JDRF recognizes and appreciates all of the dedicated volunteers and supporters who commit their lives to the worldwide effort to end T1D. Award recipients received their awards at the annual JDRF One Conference.

About JDRF

JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. To accomplish this, JDRF has invested more than $2.2 billion in research funding since our inception. We are an organization built on a grassroots model of people connecting in their local communities, collaborating regionally for efficiency and broader fundraising impact, and uniting on a national stage to pool resources, passion, and energy. We collaborate with academic institutions, policymakers, and corporate and industry partners to develop and deliver a pipeline of innovative therapies to people living with T1D. Our staff and volunteers throughout the United States and our six international affiliates are dedicated to advocacy, community engagement and our vision of a world without T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.org or follow us on Twitter: @JDRF

Media Contact:

Ayana Young
212.859.7895
media@jdrf.org