Hanley Foundation partnered with the Mark Garwood Foundation, expanding our offerings to include education scholarships post– recovery.
Since 2015, Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarships has offered hope, transformed lives, and created brighter futures for adults in South Florida recovering from substance use disorders. Together, Hanley Foundation and the Mark Garwood Foundation provide educational grants to adults in recovery in South Florida who have a financial need, are committed to long-term sobriety, and who are ready to begin or continue their education.
Phoenix Scholarships can be used to pay for tuition, books, supplies, and fees not covered by other grants or aid. Scholarship applications are accepted July 15 through September 15 each year to residents of St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, and Broward counties. Learn more and apply for a Phoenix Scholarship.
”"Education is a powerful motivator for adults in recovery, fostering long-term sobriety by rebuilding self-esteem, self-worth, and accountability. It equips individuals to pursue a sober and productive future."
John Garwood.
RECOVERY + EDUCATION = SUCCESS!
“Education is a powerful motivator for adults in recovery, fostering long-term sobriety by rebuilding self-esteem, self-worth, and accountability. It equips individuals to pursue a sober and productive future.” — John Garwood.
The Mark Garwood Foundation was established to honor the memory of Mark Garwood, who lost his battle with substance use disorder at the age of 24.
During Mark’s journey, the Garwood family witnessed the profound despair many experience with loved ones with addiction. However, they also saw the transformative power of recovery.
Mark’s legacy will be fulfilled if we can reach one person, save one life, or ease one person’s journey back to wholeness.
To raise funds for the Pheonix Program, Hanley Foundation and the Mark Garwood Foundation host two signature events. Shoot for the Moon is a clay shooting event held yearly in November, and Racquets for Recovery is a Pickleball tournament held annually in February.
”"My God has shown me forgiveness and strength, and that's what I want to portray unto others... God bless you."
Mark F. Garwood, 1990-2014These were the final words Mark Garwood sent to his family in a text message on May 23, 2014, just one day before his life was tragically cut short at the age of 24.
Mark’s Story
Mark was known for his insatiable curiosity, love for life, and a heart full of generosity. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a teenager, Mark never let the condition slow him down. He excelled in sports, was always active, and had a magnetic personality that drew people to him. His sincerity, charm, and unwavering loyalty made him a constant and devoted friend, always willing to go the extra mile for those he cared about.
In 2009, while attending college in Orlando, Mark was assaulted during a pick-up basketball game. The resulting injury led to a prescription for pain medications, which ultimately triggered his battle with addiction. Over the next few years, Mark’s life began to unravel—he dropped out of school, distanced himself from loved ones, and had run-ins with the law. Despite these challenges, Mark recognized the destructive path he was on and was determined to reclaim his life.
Mark went through detox and rehab, becoming an active participant in NA and AA twelve-step programs. He moved into a recovery residence where he found strong spiritual and emotional support among his peers. With his resilience and determination, Mark secured his dream job and was on the verge of a promising career.
However, substance use disorder is a powerful and unpredictable adversary. After a five-year struggle, Mark passed away due to complications from his addiction and diabetes. In his memory, the Mark Garwood Foundation was established in 2014, dedicated to providing hope, transforming lives, and building brighter futures for the recovery community.
Mark’s favorite superhero was Batman—a hero without superpowers, who used the tools around him to turn darkness into light. This symbol inspired the Foundation’s mission, reminding us all that success in sobriety and life is possible using the tools and opportunities available. As Mark believed, “Be Batman. No superpowers needed.”
