WHO WE ARE
Brooks Tomb
Director Regional Offices
After serving as a SSK volunteer for 15 years, G.W. became the Executive Director in January 2001. Since creating the California Fun-Time Fantasy in 1988, he has overseen the expansion of National Events that now include ten destinations and involve volunteers nation wide working with the Foundation to provide trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients annually.
G.W. became internationally known as a professional actor for his portrayal as Capt. Harris in the POLICE ACADEMY film series. He is also widely recognized as Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and for his other feature and TV movies. He is currently a regular on the TNT television hit series, THE CLOSER.
G.W. was introduced to The Sunshine Kids by his goddaughter Brandy Aldridge who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Her experiences with other Kids who were also fighting cancer had a profound effect on Brandy, her family and friends. She inspired G.W. to begin working with the Foundation and with Rhoda in an effort to create more activities that would reach as many Kids as possible. His work with The Sunshine Kids has always been dedicated to the memory of this remarkable young woman.
Courtney Bragg
Activities Coordinator
After serving as a SSK volunteer for 15 years, G.W. became the Executive Director in January 2001. Since creating the California Fun-Time Fantasy in 1988, he has overseen the expansion of National Events that now include ten destinations and involve volunteers nation wide working with the Foundation to provide trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients annually.
G.W. became internationally known as a professional actor for his portrayal as Capt. Harris in the POLICE ACADEMY film series. He is also widely recognized as Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and for his other feature and TV movies. He is currently a regular on the TNT television hit series, THE CLOSER.
G.W. was introduced to The Sunshine Kids by his goddaughter Brandy Aldridge who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Her experiences with other Kids who were also fighting cancer had a profound effect on Brandy, her family and friends. She inspired G.W. to begin working with the Foundation and with Rhoda in an effort to create more activities that would reach as many Kids as possible. His work with The Sunshine Kids has always been dedicated to the memory of this remarkable young woman.
Natalie Lewis
Associate Director of Regional Offices
After serving as a SSK volunteer for 15 years, G.W. became the Executive Director in January 2001. Since creating the California Fun-Time Fantasy in 1988, he has overseen the expansion of National Events that now include ten destinations and involve volunteers nation wide working with the Foundation to provide trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients annually.
G.W. became internationally known as a professional actor for his portrayal as Capt. Harris in the POLICE ACADEMY film series. He is also widely recognized as Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and for his other feature and TV movies. He is currently a regular on the TNT television hit series, THE CLOSER.
G.W. was introduced to The Sunshine Kids by his goddaughter Brandy Aldridge who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Her experiences with other Kids who were also fighting cancer had a profound effect on Brandy, her family and friends. She inspired G.W. to begin working with the Foundation and with Rhoda in an effort to create more activities that would reach as many Kids as possible. His work with The Sunshine Kids has always been dedicated to the memory of this remarkable young woman.
Keili Geller
Activities Coordinator
After serving as a SSK volunteer for 15 years, G.W. became the Executive Director in January 2001. Since creating the California Fun-Time Fantasy in 1988, he has overseen the expansion of National Events that now include ten destinations and involve volunteers nation wide working with the Foundation to provide trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients annually.
G.W. became internationally known as a professional actor for his portrayal as Capt. Harris in the POLICE ACADEMY film series. He is also widely recognized as Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and for his other feature and TV movies. He is currently a regular on the TNT television hit series, THE CLOSER.
G.W. was introduced to The Sunshine Kids by his goddaughter Brandy Aldridge who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Her experiences with other Kids who were also fighting cancer had a profound effect on Brandy, her family and friends. She inspired G.W. to begin working with the Foundation and with Rhoda in an effort to create more activities that would reach as many Kids as possible. His work with The Sunshine Kids has always been dedicated to the memory of this remarkable young woman.
Janet Yon
Associate Director of Children’s Services
After serving as a SSK volunteer for 15 years, G.W. became the Executive Director in January 2001. Since creating the California Fun-Time Fantasy in 1988, he has overseen the expansion of National Events that now include ten destinations and involve volunteers nation wide working with the Foundation to provide trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients annually.
G.W. became internationally known as a professional actor for his portrayal as Capt. Harris in the POLICE ACADEMY film series. He is also widely recognized as Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and for his other feature and TV movies. He is currently a regular on the TNT television hit series, THE CLOSER.
G.W. was introduced to The Sunshine Kids by his goddaughter Brandy Aldridge who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Her experiences with other Kids who were also fighting cancer had a profound effect on Brandy, her family and friends. She inspired G.W. to begin working with the Foundation and with Rhoda in an effort to create more activities that would reach as many Kids as possible. His work with The Sunshine Kids has always been dedicated to the memory of this remarkable young woman.
Aubrey de los Reyes
Associate Director of Children’s Services
After serving as a SSK volunteer for 15 years, G.W. became the Executive Director in January 2001. Since creating the California Fun-Time Fantasy in 1988, he has overseen the expansion of National Events that now include ten destinations and involve volunteers nation wide working with the Foundation to provide trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients annually.
G.W. became internationally known as a professional actor for his portrayal as Capt. Harris in the POLICE ACADEMY film series. He is also widely recognized as Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and for his other feature and TV movies. He is currently a regular on the TNT television hit series, THE CLOSER.
G.W. was introduced to The Sunshine Kids by his goddaughter Brandy Aldridge who had been diagnosed with leukemia. Her experiences with other Kids who were also fighting cancer had a profound effect on Brandy, her family and friends. She inspired G.W. to begin working with the Foundation and with Rhoda in an effort to create more activities that would reach as many Kids as possible. His work with The Sunshine Kids has always been dedicated to the memory of this remarkable young woman.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors of The Sunshine Kids Foundation is made up of individuals who are community, business and medical leaders from around the country. Every member is committed and dedicated to The Sunshine Kids mission and goals and are instrumental in helping the Foundation reach as many young cancer patients across North America.
Chief Deputy Craig Taffaro
Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office - Retired
For the past twenty-seven years, Chief Craig Taffaro has been instrumental in coordinating the Sunshine Kids Mardi Gras Fun-Time Fantasy and Haunted Halloween Getaway National Events, both held in the greater New Orleans area. Over the years seeing young cancer patients across the country pass through New Orleans as part of The Sunshine Kids program have the opportunity to just have fun and enjoy life is indescribable.
Taffaro retired as the Chief Deputy for the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and commands the Field Operations Bureau in 2017. He is a forty-nine-year law enforcement veteran joining the JPSO after serving thee years in the United States Army. While in the Army he was a graduate of the 4th Armored Division NCO Academy.
Chief Taffaro is the recipient of several commendations and citizens’ awards but he relates that his affiliation with the Sunshine Kids Foundation is his most rewarding accomplishment.
Taffaro and his wife Judy co-coordinate events for Sunshine Kids together and reside in Harvey, Louisiana.
Dr. Michael L. Abbott
Texas State University-Retired
Dr. Michael Abbott was instrumental in establishing The Sunshine Kids Texas Hill Country Adventure in San Marcos, Texas. Over the past thirty years Mike has been influential in developing awareness and relationships with Texas State University and the San Marcos community to bring young cancer patients from across the country to the Hill Country of Texas.
He joined Southwest Texas State University in 1976 and held several positions during his 25-year tenure. He was Director, Planning and Analysis; Associate Vice President for Finance and Management; Executive Assistant to the President; Executive Vice President; and Interim President of the University.
Abbott and his wife live in Austin, Texas. They have two sons, two daughters and six grandchildren.
Carol Alvarado
Texas State Senator District 6
Carol Alvarado serves as Texas State Senator for District 6. Prior to her election in 2018, Carol served as State Representative for District 145. As a public servant, Carol continues to fight for a better environment and healthier living options for all Texans.
Carol, like many Houstonians, came to learn about Sunshine Kids through her friends, Houston icons Bob Allen & Craig Biggio. She is honored to be a part of what she calls "the dynamic SSK family."
Alvarado received her Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Houston.
Johnny Carrabba
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Carrabba's Italian Grill was founded in Houston, Texas in 1986 by Johnny Carrabba and his uncle Damian Mandola. Prior to opening Carrabba’s, he started in the restaurant business by working with his uncles. His first job was at the Damian's in Huntsville, Texas in 1976, then at Nino's owned by Vincent and Tony Mandola in Houston. Both Johnny and Damian have extensive restaurant experience and belong to one of Houston's most successful restaurant families.
This local spirit and outstanding food and customer service led to a partnership with Florida-based Outback Steakhouse, Inc. In 1993, this partnership was formalized, and led to 10 Carrabba's Italian Grills being opened in Houston and Florida. In 1995 Outback acquired the rights to develop the Carrabba's theme nationwide. There are currently over 200 Carrabba's Italian Grill locations around the United States.
Johnny Carrabba was born and raised in Houston, Texas. He attended St. Thomas High School and St. Thomas University.
Tom Carruthers, III
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
PenFed Realty
Tom Carruthers, III, is President of Real Estate Operations for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty.
Carruthers began his real estate career in 1991 when he joined his father’s company upon graduation from the University of Richmond. During his tenure with the company, the firm grew from three residential branch offices generating $3 million in GCI to 22 offices producing well over $30 million in GCI.
At a national level, Tom has served on the NAR Board of Directors and served on the Marketing, Technology, Relocation and National Advisory Councils for Prudential Real Estate. Locally, Tom currently serves on the Maryland Association of Realtors Board of Directors and Executive Committee and MRIS Board of Directors, the regional MLS.
Akara Forsythe, M.D.
Innovative Pain Solutions Centers
Akara Forsythe began her involvement with The Sunshine Kids when she attended the 1990 Sunshine Kids Winter Games in Aspen, Colorado as a patient participant from Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. “During one of the most difficult times in my life, The Sunshine Kids Foundation brought me a tremendous amount of happiness and peace. And, I still hold many of the memories close to my heart.”
Akara completed her residency at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, MD in the Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care. She is currently a practicing anesthesiologist at Innovative Pain Solutions In Maryland.
Akara and her husband Jack currently reside in Bowie, Maryland.
Rich Hooper
Retired Pilot
Rich Hooper began his involvement with The Sunshine Kids Foundation in 1985 as a volunteer at the annual Sunshine Kids Winter Games held in Aspen, Colorado. Rich serves as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Sunshine Kids Board of Directors and works on special projects for the Foundation.
Rich served in the United States Marine Corps as a Fighter Pilot for eight years. He retired as the Chief Line Check Airman for International Operations after serving as a pilot and Senior Flight Instructor for Delta Airlines for 30 years.
Hooper received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management from The University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Andy Sacks
Producer
Andy Sacks has been volunteering on national and local events with The Sunshine Kids since 2005 and joined The Sunshine Kids Board of Directors in 2011. Andy is continually inspired by the Kids he has met and is honored to be a member of the Board of Directors.
Andy began his career working on a theme park in Oita, Japan and started his work in television on the series, Beverly Hills, 90210. His feature credits include Shirley MacLaine’s directorial debut, Bruno and Adaptation directed by Spike Jonze. In 2004, he won an Academy Award for producing the short film Two Soldiers. He is currently a producer on the TNT’s Hit Series Major Crimes.
Sacks is a graduate of UCLA.
Bret Sanders
Sanders Morris Harris
Bret Sanders joined the Round Rock Express club ownership group in 2003. He is currently Director of NASDAQ Trading for Sanders Morris Harris LLC, where he oversees over-the-counter trading for the Houston-based brokerage firm. Prior to joining the company, Bret was employed in the legal and investment consulting business, advising investment firms on regulatory and compliance issues.
Sanders received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from The University of Houston. Bret and his wife Laurie reside in Houston with their two children. They are avid sports fans, attending most Astros games and participate in numerous adventure races throughout Texas.
Jerrie Short
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
California Properties
Jerrie and her husband founded Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties in 1975. Under their guidance, the company grew from 15 associates to 200 associates today. They are recognized by the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices as an Elite Circle Company – one of the top 50 companies in the BHHS network.
The associates at BHHS California Properties have been supporting The Sunshine Kids for more than 15 years and they have become an integral part of who they are in the community. As a cancer survivor herself, Jerrie has a passion for The Sunshine Kids Foundation and the work they do every day to make an impact and a difference in the lives of kids with cancer. “Honored and Blessed” are the words that come to mind when Jerrie thinks about her position on The Sunshine Kids Board. As the representative for the top ten Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices fundraising offices, she appreciates the opportunity to work toward increasing the number of BHHS companies supporting the Foundation.
Mike Thomas
Attorney at Law
Mike A. Thomas has been an advisor to The Sunshine Kids Executive Director and a member of the Board of Directors since 2000. He has played an instrumental role in the expansion of The Foundation.
Thomas is currently a lawyer in McKinney, Texas. He was previously the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel for a national cardiovascular consulting company in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was also a partner in the law firm of Thompson & Thomas, PC, in Lubbock, Texas, during which time he also briefly served as a lecturer in the Business Law Department at Texas Tech University.
Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Technological College, and received his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Texas Tech University School of Law.
Rhoda Tomasco
Honorary Board Member/Founder,
The Sunshine Kids Foundation
Rhoda Tomasco founded The Sunshine Kids Foundation in 1982, after serving for two years as a pediatric volunteer with M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. During her time as a volunteer, she established a number of children’s programs, including The Sunshine Kids Winter Games ski trip for young cancer patients.
These activities provided Rhoda with the vision that inspired her to create The Sunshine Kids Foundation which has grown to become national in scope, providing activities and quality experiences for young cancer patients from hospitals across North America. She served as Executive Director for nineteen years before retiring in 2001. She is a lifetime Board Member of the Foundation.
Tomasco attended the University of Houston, majoring in Psychology with a minor in music.
Dr. Frank Lin
Pediatric Oncologist Texas Children’s Hospital
Dr. Frank Lin joined the Sunshine Kids Foundation as a medical chaperone on our 2011 Winter Games Ski Trip in Steamboat Springs, CO and has since volunteered on numerous local and national events.
Dr. Lin is a board-certified pediatric oncologist and faculty member at the Texas Children’s Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, specializing in Pediatric Neuro-oncology and Retinoblastoma care, and serves as Assistant Director of the Precision Oncology Consult Service. His clinical and research focus is on the application of genome-scale sequencing strategies to the care of children with brain and spinal cord tumors.
When in clinical settings, Dr. Lin is thrilled to hear Sunshine Kids still recount their adventures, and happy to witness the deep impact these memories create.