The Veterans Trust, United Way of Broward County’s MISSION UNITED, and BBX Capital Foundation Unveiled a Functional Public Art Mural designed to Support Veterans & First Responders

Mural by Dean Davis

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, The Veterans Trust, United Way of Broward County’s MISSION UNITED, and BBX Capital Foundation unveiled a new functional public art mural, created by renowned artist Dean Davis, at The Galleria Mall in Fort Lauderdale. This mural is part of a new Key to Service initiative and was installed at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The artwork aims to highlight the community’s amazing veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals.

Also launched on July 31, the Key to Service project aims to transform public spaces and lives by integrating public art with modern technology. A key component of the magnificent 48’ x 8’ mixed media interactive mural is the QR code prominently displayed that provides a link to essential resources and support for first responders, medical professionals, US military service members, veterans, and their families.

Fort Lauderdale Police Department

City, County, and State officials joined community leaders and the organizations during the ceremony at The Galleria Mall to unveil the first-of-its-kind public art piece, and to celebrate the power of community collaboration. Guests heard from Broward County Mayor Nan Rich; Fred Roger, Executive Director, The Veterans Trust; Kathleen Cannon, President/CEO, United Way of Broward County; Lee Hediger, Chairman of The Veterans Trust; and Jarett Levan, CEO, BBX Capital, among others.

Steven Scelfo, Major/Executive Officer to the Chief; Fred Roger, Executive Director, The Veterans Trust; Chief Stephen Gollan, Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Department; Chief William (Bill) Schultz, Chief of Police, Fort Lauderdale; Lee Hediger, Chairman, The Veterans Trust; Dean Davis, Mural Artist; Kathleen Cannon, President/CEO, United way of Broward County

“This is the first of several works of art to celebrate frontline workers and to collaborate on what the community needs,” said Kathleen Cannon, President/CEO, United Way of Broward County. “We are so grateful to The Veterans Trust and the BBX Capital Foundation and, of course, the artist Dean Davis for putting all this together for Broward County.”

Maria Hernandez, Chief Program Officer, United Way of Broward County; Kathleen Cannon, President/CEO, United way of Broward County; Dean Davis, Mural Artist; James Heaton, Vice President of Mission United, United Way of Broward County

“These murals will beautify our local public spaces,” said Fred Roger, Executive Director, The Veterans Trust. “While actively connecting individuals with opportunities to SERVE, seek TO BE SERVED, and DONATE for the betterment of the community.”

Dean Davis, Mural Artist; Lee Hediger, Chairman, The Veterans Trust; Hoda Moss, Stephen Moss, Advisory Council Member, Mission United; Fred Roger, Executive Director, The Veterans Trust

Scanning the QR codes on the murals will direct individuals to www.keytoservice.org, offering access to critically needed resources, donation opportunities, and volunteer information.

Jennifer Starkey, Senior Vice President/Regional Vice President at TD Bank; Maria Hernandez, Chief Program Officer, United Way of Broward County; Kris White, James Heaton, Vice President of Mission United, United Way of Broward County

The colossal mural is comprised of 36 pieces of hand-painted plexiglass, each weighing approximately 45 lbs. The piece portrays the significant work and service of veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, and front-line workers. Famous artist Dean Davis, a US Navy Veteran himself, will be completing another mural on the exterior of Fort Lauderdale Fire Station #49. Also, part of the Key to Service Initiative, this piece will be unveiled on September 11, 2024.

Jarett Levan, President and Chief Executive Officer of BBX Capital; Dara Levan

About United Way of Broward County

United Way of Broward County is a volunteer driven, community-based, non-profit organization serving Broward County for more than 85 years. United Way of Broward County fights for the Health, Education and Financial Prosperity of EVERY person in our community. United Way of Broward County is the catalyst for change and convener of partnerships that unite the hearts, minds, and resources within the Broward community. For more information, visit www.UnitedWayBroward.org.

About United Way of Broward County's MISSION UNITED

MISSION UNITED is a critical program supporting US military service members, Veterans and their families in Broward County by helping them acclimate to civilian life. Key focus areas include employment services, education, health, legal assistance, financial stability and housing support. Through MISSION UNITED, United Way of Broward County is aligning existing services and creating solutions where there are gaps in support. For more information about MISSION UNITED, please call 954-4-UNITED or visit www.MISSIONUNITEDbroward.org, Facebook or Twitter.

About The Veterans Trust

The Veterans Trust (TVT) is a private foundation committed to empowering the warrior community by providing tools and experiences that enable willing veterans to continue their service, impact their communities, and realize their full potential. The belief is that service to others, coupled with self-mastery, can lead to profound personal growth and community impact. TVT offers unique and exhilarating motorsport experiences designed to inspire and energize veterans. These experiences include off-road adventures, track days, and other high energy activities that provide a sense of thrill and accomplishment. More than a foundation; it's a movement dedicated to empowering veterans to thrive in their post-service lives. By combining motorsport experiences, self-mastery tools, and continued service opportunities, it strives to create a legacy of empowered veterans making a lasting impact on their communities.

Christina Roldan, Public Art Project Manager, Broward County Aviation Department; Lee Hediger, Chairman, The Veterans Trust; Senator Nan Rich, Broward County Mayor; Dean Davis, Mural Artist; Mark Gale, CEO/Director, Broward County Aviation Department; Fred Roger, Executive Director, The Veterans Trust; Celina Saucedo, Assistant Director of Aviation/Administration, Broward County Aviation Department

About Artist Dean Davis

A creative force enriching community, Dean Davis is not your typical artist. Operating from his home studio, he channels his passion for art into impactful community projects, leaving an indelible mark on the world. A Navy veteran with a diverse range of artistic talents cultivated since 1996, Dean's journey is one of dedication, altruism, and an unwavering commitment to community improvement through art. Following 16 years of service with the Navy and subsequent work with the railroads, Dean transitioned into a full-time mural artist. His journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, culminating in a feature on a segment of CBS Sunday Morning, showcasing his unique talent and the impact of his work. Dean is the driving force behind "Art Farm," a for-profit LLC that reflects his dedication to cultivating creativity within the community.

About BBX Capital Foundation

The BBX Capital Foundation was created in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) corporate foundation. Since then, the Foundation has awarded more than $20 million in contributions and in-kind services to charitable organizations throughout Florida. The BBX Capital Foundation focuses on three key areas: the arts, education and human services. It considers requests for specific projects, as well as for general programs.