Marla and Jim Doss, a dynamic and philanthropic couple,have made a lasting impact on organizations across Florida and right here in their own community. Their generosity and commitment to service have touched countless lives. Marla, originally from East Grand Rapids, Michigan, earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Counseling and Personnel from Western Michigan University. After relocating to Florida in 1985 for a position with a nonprofit organization, she settled into her new home and began her long-standing work in the community.
Jim, a lifelong resident of Bradenton, attended Westminster College, the College of Central Florida, and ultimately graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.
The couple married 36 years ago and have one daughter, who was born and raised in Bradenton. Currently, they are working on an exciting remodeling project at their Tidy Island home, which they’ve lived in for the past four years. Jim enjoys golf, travel, working out, reading books on business trends and cheering on his beloved Florida State Seminoles. Marla’s passions include swimming, cooking, fitness and serving on multiple local boards.
Marla’s interest in helping children, particularly those with special needs, began during her college practicum, where she worked with young people facing physical and developmental challenges. For more than 30 years, she dedicated herself to supporting organizations that serve individuals with disabilities. Both she and Jim have always been strong advocates for children, particularly in the areas of education and health.
Each raised by parents who instilled a deep sense of responsibility to help others, Jim and Marla learned the value of hard work, generosity and service early in life. “Without a doubt, my father, James M. Doss Sr., shaped our philanthropic spirit,” shares Jim. “The James M. Doss Charitable Foundation, which honors his legacy, has been a profound way for us to give back to our community. We never imagined it would grow into something so impactful.”
Through their foundation, the couple has supported numerous organizations with donations of educational equipment, technology like iPads and computers and grants for STEM and STEAM programs. “The most meaningful part of our philanthropy is the opportunity to visit the organizations we support,” Marla explains. “There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the programs in action and meeting the people whose lives are touched by these efforts.”
The James M. Doss Charitable Foundation has made direct grants to 44 organizations, supporting causes such as Catholic faith-based initiatives, college athletics and children’s health and human services. Marla and Jim stay actively involved, with quarterly grant reviews and frequent site visits to the agencies they support.
Jim’s father lived by the motto “Work hard; play hard,” and Jim and Marla have adopted it as their own. “For us, service to others and selflessness make the world a better place,” they say. “We are happiest when we’re giving back.”
A particular focus of the couples’ giving has been matching grant programs, which they believe are an excellent way to encourage other donors to become engaged. “We’ve seen incredible results with matching grants. They inspire donors to come together, creating excitement and momentum to surpass fundraising goals,” Jim notes. “Some of our most meaningful matching grants have helped upgrade equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, making a lasting difference for patients of all ages.”
With nearly 800 nonprofits in Sarasota, Bradenton, Charlotte and DeSoto counties, the couple advises others to identify causes they care about and get involved. “Volunteer, donate, network—there are so many ways to make an impact,” Marla says. “Local organizations like United Way and the Chamber of Commerce are great resources to help you find your place in the community.”
“We are truly honored by the recognition of our work with Suncoast Charities for Children,” Marla continues. “The Good Hero Award inspires us to keep investing in our community. Our ultimate goal is to set an example for others, showing the importance of supporting those in need and encouraging a spirit of giving.”
Jim and Marla Doss were honored as Good Heroes by SRQ Magazine in December 2023.