by John Berry

Pompano Beach, FL — The Florida Amateur Drivers Club, long noted for its generous charitable contributions, kicks off their 2011-2012 racing season in earnest on Saturday night (Oct. 8) with their initial donation to the Florida Research Institute for Equine Nurturing, Development and Safety — F.R.I.E.N.D.S for short.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S was originally formed back in 1987 to provide a safe haven for horses deemed positive for Equine Infectious Anemia and then became a research facility in finding a vaccine and cure for this disease.

Joe Pennacchio, longtime member of the F.A.D.C. said, “F.R.I.E.N.D.S. has had countless horses come through their gates that would have had to have been destroyed had it not been for the ‘welcome sign’ at their front gate.”

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. also supports a “Sponsor-A-Horse” program, allowing persons who, normally, would not be able to afford the cost of owning or boarding a horse.

The Club is also making plans for participation in the Oct. 22 “Steps for Life Breast Cancer Walk” to be held in cooperation with the isle casino racing at Pompano Park.

Jamie Marra, President of the F.A.D.C., said that programs like this deserve everyone’s participation.

“I know of only a few people that haven’t been touched in some way with a loved one having breast cancer and Gilda’s Club (co-sponsor of this event) is the free cancer support community helping so many people in amazing ways. We are honored to participate in such a worthwhile and important journey.”

Since its inception, The Florida Amateur Drivers Club has donated more than $100,000 to charitable causes.