Miami Dolphins Legend Dan Marino Starting College For Developmentally Disabled

by Kevin Nogle on Feb 8, 2012 5:00 AM EST in 2012 Miami Dolphins News

Miami Dolphins Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino, and the Dan Marino Foundation, are planning a downtown Fort Lauderdale college for developmentally disabled students, according to a Sun Sentinel report. The college is looking to give student the real-world experiences necessary to prepare young adults with disabilities to make it on their own.

Marino's son, Michael, was diagnosed with autism in 1992 when he was two-years-old. Marino then founded the Dan Marino Foundation, focused on raising money for the developmentally challenged. Now, the foundation is looking to build the Dan Marino Foundation Vocational College, a first of its kind; post grade school institution for those with developmental challenges.

"We're here to teach the skills, provide the supports and reduce the supports as the program goes along," said Kerri Parmelee, the foundation's transition program director.

"We wanted to create something, much like a two-year community college, but it's totally focused on vocational," said Mary Partin, the foundation's chief executive officer.

The college would be located on the 400 block of North Andrews Avenue, and would utilize nearby apartments for students. The enrollment would cater to students from age 18 to 28, all of whom are diagnosed with autism, Asperger's syndrome, Down syndrome, or other developmental disabilities. The school is aiming to open in the fall of 2013, with a student body of around 60 for the first semester. The school anticipates an annual tuition of around $7500 for the two-year program, and would be divided into trimesters.

Currently, federal and state public services for persons with developmental challenges are only available until age 22 - the Dan Marino Foundation Vocational School would assist would be open to students who were too old to receive further services from the state or federal governments, whether they graduated high school or not. The foundation plans on continuing the social and job skill development of these students.

The State of Florida has begun working on legislation to add the school to the State's higher education system, with the State Senate's high education committee already passing the bill. In the mean time, the foundation is prepared to run as a private institution if they cannot get the designation

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Now Tony Sparano has a place to go!

by tpl on Feb 8, 2012 6:59 AM EST reply actions

Lol...nice...

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by Brantner78 on Feb 8, 2012 8:09 AM EST up reply actions

Just another example of Marino’s class, and his dedication to his foundation. Its refreshing to see a former star athlete do such charitable work, instead of just talking about Bling, cars, and mansions. He is a class act-always has been. Uber generous, and this just goes to show what one dedicated, and determined person can do to change the lives of those less fortunate. Hopefully he can set the example for those that come after him can follow. We have so many people in this country that could use help like this, and its nice to see Dan be an advocate for autism, and other mental disabilities. Keep it up Dan. I’m sure I can speak for everyone and say we are all proud of your accomplishments both on and off the field.

Where is Oronde Gadsden when we need him?

"Joe Montana was a product of the system. Dan Marino was the system"-Bill Walsh.

by FinzD54 on Feb 8, 2012 7:54 AM EST via mobile reply actions 2 recs

Great players, great people

We too often hear of the bonehead players that never get it. But I really believe the majority of players go out of their way to help their communities in some way, and this is a GREAT example of that. It’s easy to cheer for guys like Marino and Jason Taylor who give so much back. And it is not just them. NFL rosters are full of guys slotted 40-53 on the roster chart who may not have the money to have foundations or charities, but they go to high schools, they volunteer their time to a cause they believe in, or support the larger charities their more high profile teammates sponsor. A big thank you to Marino and all the other players who go above and beyond!!

by douglaskoehne on Feb 8, 2012 1:19 PM EST up reply actions

thanks for posting this mosul

I currently work in a school that serves to children with autism, emotionally disturbed and other disorders. Perhaps when I wrap up my masters in mental health I can make the move to Miami and work there

by ricenbeans82 on Feb 8, 2012 7:56 AM EST via mobile reply actions

That would be cool. Good luck!

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by texascowpunk on Feb 8, 2012 10:32 AM EST up reply actions

Dan the man

Ive always been impressed with all things Marino. great guy. class act.

by crf163 on Feb 8, 2012 9:29 AM EST reply actions

Did a month teaching autistic 6-8 year-olds.

Incredibly difficult work, and poorly paid. I wouldn’t have been able to stick it long-term at all. The people who do this work are real saints.

Dan has always been a class act. Let’s hope this is a huge success.

by Agumen on Feb 8, 2012 10:40 PM EST reply actions

One question, does Dan do this if his son doesn't have autism. Probably not! I love the

idea of it and it’s a great reason to help our disable youth, but the famous and wealthy do this all the time. Most of them would not have started these programs or charities on there own. In most cases it takes a hit close to home to open there eyes. It shouldn’t take a tradegy close to home for these rich and famous to open there wallets.

by D0lphins4Life on Feb 11, 2012 12:30 PM EST reply actions