When Vince Todd, Jr., was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2000 at the age of 26, dozens of loved ones rallied around him and his wife, Cindy, in solidarity and support. While he juggled the mental and physical repercussions of a cancer diagnosis, Vince also committed to turning his experience into something positive to serve the greater good. His friends and family doubled down on their support, and the Todds launched the Heroes Foundation in 2000. The organization became a registered 501(c)(3) public charity in 2001.

Many grassroots efforts fade after achieving their initial goal. However, after the Todds inspired countless people to give back and become a part of the Heroes Foundation, the effort kept growing. Today, the organization has advanced far beyond one family’s private cause. Indeed, the Heroes Foundation is a public community of donors, companies, advocates and volunteers.