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National Association for Single and Divorced Families Wins $5,000 Prize

Community members gather to support single and divorced families during the NASDF presentation.

News Summary

On December 10, 2024, the National Association for Single and Divorced Families (NASDF) claimed the $5,000 grand prize during St. Pete Pitch Night in St. Petersburg, Florida. This newly formed nonprofit aims to support single and divorced families with essential resources and services. Led by Ronald Platt, NASDF is set to expand its offerings, including behavioral health sessions and job coaching. Their mission is to uplift and assist families navigating the challenges of divorce and single parenting.

St. Petersburg Celebration: A Victory for Single and Divorced Families!

St. Petersburg was buzzing with excitement on December 10, 2024, as the National Association for Single and Divorced Families (NASDF) took home the impressive $5,000 grand prize at the much-anticipated St. Pete Pitch Night competition. The event, held at the vibrant venue Coastal Creative, was organized by St. Pete Greenhouse, showcasing innovative ideas from community-centered businesses.

Champion of Support for Families

NASDF, a newly minted nonprofit organization, aims to support individuals navigating the turbulent waters of divorce and the challenges faced by single-parent households. Led by the passionate Ronald Platt, the group presented an inspired pitch detailing the vital resources and support systems they offer to families in need. Platt’s heartfelt presentation truly resonated with the judges, earning NASDF top honors for their vision and mission.

A Heartfelt Moment

For Ronald Platt, winning the grand prize was more than just a victory; it was an emotional moment that left him feeling humbled by the audience’s enthusiastic approval of their vision. His journey to create NASDF stemmed from a personal experience—his own parents went through a divorce, and he also served as a foster parent. From these experiences, Platt identified significant gaps in available support for those facing divorce and single parenting, fueling his drive to make a difference.

Affordable Support for Families

NASDF offers a membership program that costs just $19 a month, opening the door to a treasure trove of resources. Members can access eight free behavioral health sessions, enjoy discounts on therapy, and get help with childcare services. Additionally, NASDF provides connections to financial advisers, legal networks, and experienced Realtors who can help navigate the complexities of parenting and finances.

Career Support and Legal Help

But wait, there’s more! NASDF has partnered with STEPS Career Academy to deliver job coaching, résumé assistance, and LinkedIn profile building. Plus, through collaboration with Our Children Have Rights, members can gain legal advice regarding child custody matters, which is a crucial aspect of navigating new family dynamics post-divorce.

A Vision Years in the Making

Though the idea for NASDF started brewing thirty years ago during Platt’s days in the insurance field, the organization officially launched just last month in November 2024. It operates using a membership model similar to AARP, ensuring that access to essential resources becomes a streamlined and straightforward process for its members.

Plans for Growth and Greater Impact

As NASDF celebrates this exciting win, plans are already in the works for utilizing the prize money for marketing efforts aimed at raising awareness about its services. The organization hopes to expand its reach and increase membership so that more families can benefit from the wealth of resources available. Upcoming goals include offering an even greater number of behavioral health sessions and discounts on necessities that can ease the burden on families during difficult times.

Aiming for Transformation

Ultimately, NASDF is driven by a mission to profoundly impact the lives of single-parent and divorced families all across the country. With a strong commitment to providing support, resources, and community connection, this organization is poised to become an invaluable ally for those navigating the challenges of single parenting and divorce.

As St. Petersburg celebrates the triumph of NASDF, it’s clear that this vibrant community is standing tall in solidarity, supporting families and creating a brighter future for everyone.