Meet Dani

Dani Richter, Director of Philanthropy at the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, has been helping Floridians make an impact for the past five years. A Tampa Bay native, Dani grew up fishing its waters and developed a lifelong love for Florida’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. She now combines her expertise in philanthropy with her passion for conservation and is excited to answer your questions. Contact her at [email protected].

March 2025

Dear Dani,

I’m heartbroken about the state of Florida’s Coral Reef. I know they’re crucial to ocean life, but the problem seems so big. With climate change, disease, and everything else harming them, I’m not sure my support could really make a difference. Can someone like me truly help protect something this important?

— Concerned but Hopeful
Key Largo, FL

Dear Concerned but Hopeful,

I get it. Florida’s Coral Reef are so important, but the challenges they face can seem overwhelming. It’s easy to wonder if one person can truly make a difference. But here’s the truth: every action counts, especially when it comes to something as complex as saving our reefs.

Think about coral reefs themselves. They’re built by tiny coral polyps—small creatures working together to create massive, life-sustaining ecosystems. Your contribution, no matter the size, works the same way. When combined with others, it builds something powerful.

Planned giving is a meaningful way to be part of that collective impact. For example, you can:

1. Name the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida as a beneficiary of your retirement account or life insurance policy. It’s simple, costs nothing now, and ensures your love for Florida’s reefs leaves a lasting legacy.
2. Restrict your gift to coral reefs by using specific language, like below:I bequeath $_________ or _____ percent of my residuary estate to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, organized and existing under the laws of the State of Florida (Federal tax identification number 59-3277808), for the Restoring our Reefs fund.
3. Include a gift in your will. Even a small percentage of your estate can fund coral restoration projects that bring dying reefs back to life.
4. Consider a charitable gift annuity. This option provides you with lifetime income while supporting reef conservation after you’re gone—a win for you and Florida’s marine life.

Florida’s Coral Reef doesn’t need one person to save them; they need all of us doing what we can. Your gift, combined with others, fuels real change—restoring reefs, protecting marine life, and ensuring future generations can experience their beauty.

You can make a difference. Just like the reefs themselves, it’s all about the power of coming together.

Warmly,
Dani