Rich and Lynda Masulli
JT Townsend Foundation: Holiday contributors and fundraisers
Rich and Lynda Masulli
Lynda and Rich Masulli’s love of collecting beautiful, hand-blown and hand-painted Christmas ornaments is more than just a hobby. The Masullis took that interest and turned it into an annual holiday event to raise funds for the JT Townsend Foundation. Today, the Masullis continue to volunteer and raise funds for an organization started by someone that truly inspired them.
Townsend suffered a spinal cord injury in 2004 while playing high school football. After graduating in 2013 from the University of North Florida with a degree in sports management, Townsend suddenly passed away a few weeks later at age 26.
“For me, the best part of volunteering is seeing the people who the foundation helped,” Rich said. “Especially when JT was alive, it was so meaningful to see the reaction of people when JT would personally deliver a piece of [adaptive] equipment or some device that would make it easier for the recipient or their care giver. JT, with his smile and positive attitude, was an inspiration for these recipients, especially youngsters.” said Rich.
“He was a remarkable young man who lived his faith in a way that inspired everyone who met him.” said Lynda. “Enabling his mission to give back, bring glory to God and to encourage those who live with disabilities is a great source of joy and fulfillment.”
“We have worked on countless fundraisers over the span of 10 years,” said Judi Zitiello, board chair for the JT Townsend Foundation.
“The Masullis have opened up their home and their hearts to not only the Townsend family, but many other worthwhile causes that present themselves. They exemplify the ‘true servant’s’ heart through their philanthropic endeavors, and I am proud to call them friends,” said Zitiello.
