On Tuesday, November 6, 2012, the Tampa Bay Lightning invested Quantum Leap Farm’s Founder, Edie Dopking, PhD, as an official Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero. At the beginning of the 2011-2012 season, Lightning owner Jeff Vinik and his wife Penny, launched the Community Heroes initiative. Their goal was to recognize grassroots Heroes who are using their lives to make the greater Tampa Bay community a better place. Heroes were recognized and rewarded at each one of the Lightning’s 41 regular season games. Last season, the Lightning distributed a total of $2,050,000 to worthy community causes.
Their Community Hero selection process is based on the degree to which the Hero has enriched the lives of others, exhibited dedication and selflessness, made a special and significant impact, and gone above and beyond to serve and inspire others. Dr. Edie Dopking and Quantum Leap Farm are honored and thrilled to be selected for their over 12 years of service to the special needs community. At the awards ceremony, Dr. Dopking said, “This award is not for me. It is for all of us—the volunteers, staff, Board, and donors—but most of all, for our participants and their families. They are true heroes to all who meet them.”
