Leadership and Support
Larry Hoffheimer, Chairman and Founder
Mr. Larry Hoffheimer has been a practicing healthcare attorney in Washington, DC since 1972. Prior to that, he was a federal prosecutor with the United States Department of Justice. During the course of his career he has represented numerous voluntary health agencies (VHAs) and healthcare delivery professionals.
Mr. Hoffheimer formed and led the advocacy effort that resulted in the Congressional Resolution and Presidential Proclamation declaring the 1990s as the Decade of the Brain. He founded the National Foundation for Brain Research which provided enhanced visibility for neurological disorders.
Mr. Hoffheimer was asked by the National Parkinson Foundation to serve as its Washington Counsel where he became a leader in the lobbying effort to pass the Morris K. Udall Bill, which provided $100,000,000 for research into the cause and cure for Parkinson’s disease.
He was elected President of the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area during which time the PFNCA raised more than $2 million for important medical research. In 2003, Mr. Hoffheimer formed the Parkinson Research Foundation and moved to Sarasota, Florida where he directs the activities of the PRF.
Brian Curro, Executive Director
Brian R. Curro has a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from the University of Mass., Amherst and a Masters of Art in Voice Performance from USF, Tampa. He has over 25 years experience in business development, marketing, and public relations that contributed to multiple successful entrepreneurial ventures.
As a former Marine, Brian brings to the organization the highest level of integrity, an impeccable work ethic, discipline and full attention to detail. In addition, Brian is an accomplished opera singer. He shares his talent and ability with the community by means of free will performances and voice training programs for people with Parkinson’s. Brian is also an avid ultra marathon runner and athlete driven by a strong sense of accomplishment and tenacity.
As Executive Director, Brian is focused on building a strong foundation as well as a strategic plan to ensure long-term sustainability and success for the organization. He oversees operations, program development and public relations for the Parkinson Research Foundation. “I welcome the opportunity as Executive Director to utilize personal and professional skills to enhance the quality of life for those people living with Parkinson disease.
Marilyn Tait, Patient Programs, Services and Advocacy
Marilyn Tait, is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson University School of Nursing in Philadelphia, PA. She has over 40 years’ experience in healthcare marketing, management and program development. Specializing in neurology, she is an authority in addressing the overwhelming physical and emotional challenges of Parkinson Disease for patients and caregivers. She is an experienced educator, motivator and support group leader.
Marilyn has written and developed over twenty original programs that support quality of life for those living with disease and disability. She has lectured nationally on the topics of “Living Well with Parkinson Disease” and “The Dynamics of Caregiving”.
As Director of Patient Programs, Services and Advocacy her responsibilities include facilitating ongoing educational and empowerment programs as well as a full scope of integrative medicine and patient/caregiver participation programs. Marilyn serves as Patient and Family Advocate and as Parkinson Care Consultant for the Parkinson Research Foundation. “Parkinson Disease can create the challenge of a lifetime but with motivation, support and the belief that I have Parkinsons, Parkinsons does not have me, patients and their caregivers are given the power to face each day with a positive attitude and enjoy everyday life to the fullest.”
Lisa M. Kennedy, Site Director, Parkinson Research Foundation
Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Care Administration with a commitment to further her education in the field of non-profit management. Lisa brings over 20 years’ experience in the fields of management, healthcare and business development.
As Site Director, Lisa’s primary responsibilities include management of day-to-day operation, fundraising/grant development, and a commitment to provide superior customer service and satisfaction for those served by the foundation. Lisa’s passion to excellence and attention to detail contributes to the overall goal of PRF’s pursuit of quality service and satisfaction. “I look forward to the involvement with staff and community partners as a joint effort to promote quality of life for Parkinson patients and those who love them.”
Lynne Henry, Director of Administration