Howard’s passion for business and entrepreneurial enterprises is only matched by his dedication to giving back to the community. He tirelessly lends his energy and efforts to various community outreach projects and charitable endeavors that give people a chance to succeed. To that end, Howard supports established charities and assists in creating and launching new ones. He supports organizations that are dedicated to helping lift community members up and overcome challenges.
Howard’s commitment to helping others hit a pinnacle following the tragic mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in his hometown of Parkland, FL. The South Florida community was rocked by a tragedy and Howard knew that long after the media coverage faded, the wounds would remain. Recovering from such a tragedy doesn’t happen in mere days; it can take months and even years. Howard created Parkland Cares in an effort to help heal the community.
Parkland Cares’ mission is to provide immediate and long-term funding and awareness for mental health counseling for survivors, their families, and the community-at-large. The non-profit is designed to provide a centralized resource to help cope with tragedy by allowing people to get connected with crisis counseling, intervention services, short and long-term therapy, trauma counseling and more by calling 954-740-MSD1 (6731).
In August 2018, Parkland Cares awarded a $75,000 grants to three local mental health organizations. The funds are dedicated to helping these organizations to continue to provide trauma counseling for those affected. If you wish to donate or find an upcoming event to support the Parkland Cares mission, please visit ParklandCares.org.
Howard’s desire to help the homeless and underprivileged populations in Florida led him to help found The Cupboard food pantry through the Goodman Jewish Family Services of Broward County. This kosher food pantry aims at wiping out hunger in Broward County. They strive to improve the quality of life for community members, regardless of their race, religion, ethnic background or sexual orientation.
As a staunch supporter of mental health, he provides ongoing support to Henderson Behavioral Health, so much so they dedicated the Henderson Mental Health Dvorkin Family Meeting Center to him in recognition of his generous contributions.
In 2014, Howard was named a Laureate in the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame. He passionately supports the work of JA South Florida and their mission to provide youth with the resources they need to achieve financially independent, stable lives through bright futures in business.
Howard has also served on the Executive Board of the United Way of Broward County. The organization focuses on education, income, and health – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. As no surprise, Howard has made a significant impact with personal finance educational programs throughout South Florida. Through Mission United, they strive to help Veterans transition successfully to civilian life and connect veterans and their families with the services they need – from securing a roof over their heads to finding a stable job.