If you’ve spent any amount of time at LGBTQ events in or around Wilton Manors, you’ve seen them. They work out front at civic events and behind the scenes of fundraisers and other philanthropic events. They are Wilton Manors’ Power Couple: Marc Martorana and Don D’Arminio.
The couple lives just steps off Wilton Drive in the heart of the city. While D’Arminio is a first-term city commissioner, they both sit on NGO boards and committees. You would be hard-pressed to find a local group they haven’t worked with in some form, be it financial, organizing, supporting or catering. This year, the readers of OutSFL voted D’Armino as Best Broward Activist and Martorana as Best New Broward Activist.
“We are honored to have such an overwhelming amount of support from our community we have done,” says D’Arminio speaking for both. “We all need to do our part to continue the fight for equality. We help support the work of our local nonprofits that are near and dear to our hearts. We shouldn’t have to fight for human rights, but unfortunately in this political climate, it’s important that we all stand together.”
D’Arminio and Martorana have been together for 28 years, often opening their home to local charities from the time they moved to Wilton Manors 16 years ago. They typically host a dozen events a year. Some of the charities that have benefited from their selfless work include The South Florida Symphony Orchestra, the National LGBTQ Task Force, Plays of Wilton, The Pet Project Island City Stage, OUTshine Film Festival, Stonewall National Museum & Archives, Art Serve and World AIDS Museum.
“It’s incredibly gratifying to help out nonprofits and organizations that are facing budget cuts. These nonprofits rely on our community’s support to sustain and survive. If the need is there, and the appreciation is there, we are there,” says D’Arminio.
Separately this year they have also won 2 other Your Choice Awards: D’Arminio as Best Wilton Manors Politician, and Martorana as Best Local Celebrity.
Runner-up for best Wilton Manors Politician: Chris Caputo
Runner-up for Best Activist: Tony Lima
Runner-up for Best Local Celebrity: FayWhat?!
Runner-up for Best NEW Activist: Gabby Corrado
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