Mark Garwood died May 24, 2014 at the age of 24 due to complications of his Type 1 diabetes and an opiate addiction----a vibrant and energetic life extinguished all too early.

 

In 2009 while attending college in Orlando, Mark was assaulted during a pick-up basketball game. He became addicted to the pain medications prescribed after this assault, and his life began to spiral out of control.

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The Garwood family has witnessed the anxiety, frustration and desperation so many young people endure while battling addiction. They have also witnessed the hope and promise that even the smallest degree of encouragement and support fosters in individuals who are committed to finding their way out of the darkness.  

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Since 2015, the Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarship program has provided over $600,000 to 76 adults in south Florida who are in recovery, committed to long-term sobriety and ready to begin or continue their education.  Our 33 alumni boast 48 degrees, including two doctoral degrees in nursing and medicine, solidifying our belief that RECOVERY+ EDUCATION = SUCCESS!

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In July 2025, the Mark Garwood Foundation announced a strategic partnership with Hanley Foundation of West Palm Beach to begin integrating the Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarship program into Hanley Foundation’s well-established work in prevention, treatment, and recovery. This powerful collaboration marks a significant step forward in our collective mission to rebuild lives through education and opportunity.

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100% of the proceeds of Racquets for Recovery will benefit the Mark Garwood Foundation Phoenix Scholarship program.
 

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