HOLLYWOOD, FL  — The GAWDA Gives Back program is a special part of the Gases and Welding Distributors Association (GAWDA). Over 20 years ago GAWDA Gives Back was conceived by Past President Dave Mahoney and his wife Donna as way of honoring and thanking GAWDA’s Annual Convention host community by tapping into the voluntary generosity of our members to benefit a local charity. As Dave wrote when he introduced the voluntary charitable initiative:

“Let’s not simply take away memories; let’s make memories for others as well. As a token of our appreciation for the things we take away, let’s leave something for those that will never have the opportunities that we have enjoyed. What better way to say thanks to the community for having us as their guests!”

This year GAWDA President Robert Anders and his wife Missy have selected the Malama Family Recovery Center as the 2023 GAWDA Gives Back Recipients. The Malama Family Recovery Center provides caring, holistic substance use disorder treatment to women and children so families can live safe, independent and healthy lives. This is a cause that is near and dear to Robert and Missy’s heart, as they have seen the impact of substance abuse in their own lives.

GAWDA is inviting all members to support Malama Family Recovery Center as they strive to provide a continuum of care with Therapeutic and Sober Living Programs, Intensive Outpatient, Outpatient, and Aftercare services. They are also the only place on Maui where young children and infants can live with their mothers while they get the help needed.

Details on how to donate, as well as view an informational video on this special organization, can be found at www.gawda.org.

About GAWDA

For over 75 years, the Gases and Welding Distributors Association (GAWDA) has been dedicated to promoting the safe operation and economic vitality of distributors of industrial gases and related welding equipment supplies. Through its GAWDA Gives Back campaign, association members have donated almost $2 million over the last 22 years to over 20 different charitable organizations in 14 communities across the U.S. Since 2013, GAWDA and its members also have provided scholarships over $430,000 to 133 young people interested in studies leading to careers in the industry. For more information, visit the association’s website at www.gawda.org.