Michael D.Wild
Managing Partner, WFP Law
Charitable involvements: 2-1-1 Broward, HANDY (Helping Abused, Neglected and Disadvantaged Youth), Arc Broward, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, United Way of Broward County, and more
Why it’s personal: “When my grandfather died in 2001, the family began receiving letter after letter from charities across the country thanking him for his support over the years. … My involvement in the local nonprofit community was one borne out of business. I had just started my law firm and was looking to network. Happily, my professional success over the last 10 years has put me in a position to follow in my grandfather’s footsteps and give back, not only in time and talent, but treasure as well.”
Did you know? “For the American Cancer Society, I came up with the idea to wear a loud, pink sports coat all 31 days of October and sell sponsorships on my back to both raise awareness for the cause and for the businesses that donate to it. … This year, I raised $9,000. … The front of the jacket now is signed by survivors or family members of survivors and the back is sponsors.”
Sources of pride: “I always warn the CEOs and development directors that each charity gets one big idea from me. For 2-1-1 Broward, I created the mascot Captain 2-1-1 and dress in that costume multiple times per year to raise awareness for the charity. For United Way of Broward County, I created an affinity group called Envision United, dedicated to professionals looking for the ability to donate but also to work ‘hands on’ with the charity while growing their businesses through networking and professional development. The group raised over $100,000 of new money within the first six months of existence. It was such a hit that I was asked to start a similar group for the Boys & Girls Clubs.
“What makes me most proud about these efforts is that they went viral, with chapters from across the state and country taking note and implementing versions of their own. Any time I can get Broward County nonprofits on the map, it is a huge success.”
Words to live by: “As a father of two, there is no greater fear than that of my children being sick or hurt. The nonprofits that I feel strongest about are those that assist children. … My kids are lucky. I am lucky. I think that I owe it to those kids who aren’t as lucky to do whatever I can to help them.”
Photography by James Woodley
Creative direction by Melanie Geronemus Smit
Edited by Kevin Kaminski and Keren Moros
Shot on location at C&I Studios in Fort Lauderdale
