our story

Love IV Lawrence was founded after the un-expected death of our beloved son, brother, and friend, Lawrence Hundley Dimmitt IV. Lawrence, who was a seventh-generation Floridian, with deep roots in both Tampa and Clearwater, was a natural athlete and an avid outdoorsman. He loved and was loved by his many friends and family members.

Through our shock and grief we realized that we needed to come together to address the mental health crisis in our community, which we now had a personal and painful experience with. A group of Lawrence’s family, friends, and supporters began gathering to talk about what could be done, what needed to change, and where to start. We believe that the place to start is by changing the conversation around mental health, which for many really translates to starting the conversation, as well as adjusting our vocabulary and how we label mental health issues and those suffering. This boils down to de-stigmatizing depression, mental health, vulnerability, sickness, and suicide. 

We have created a foundation in Lawrence’s honor to fund various local and international organizations which are doing important work in the field of mental health, including research, direct action, and intervention. 

We invite you all to carry Lawrence’s love forward by making an extra effort with those around you. Ask the hard questions, have uncomfortable conversations, let yourself be vulnerable, and make space for others to be vulnerable with you. 

How to Discuss Your Mental Health With Family Members Who Don’t Get It

Visit our Love IV Lawrence foundation page with the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay.