Helgeson to advance philanthropic support for pediatric hematology/oncology and individuals with intellectual or developmental disability services

May 19, 2026 – Lee Health Foundation has welcomed Amy Helgeson as senior director of development, bringing more than a decade of fundraising and leadership experience in healthcare and mission-driven nonprofit organizations.

In her role, Helgeson will lead philanthropic efforts supporting Barbara’s Friends – Golisano Children’s Hospital cancer fund, as well as services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Her work will focus on expanding donor engagement and securing vital resources to support children and families throughout Southwest Florida.

Helgeson joins Lee Health Foundation from the University of Florida’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, where she successfully secured major gifts while strengthening philanthropic engagement across departments. Previously, she served in senior leadership roles with Autism Speaks, where she advanced fundraising initiatives supporting children and families affected by autism nationwide.

For more information about Golisano Children’s Hospital and how to support advanced pediatric healthcare, visit GiveGolisano.org.

About Lee Health Foundation

Lee Health Foundation raises philanthropic support on behalf of community-focused nonprofit Lee Health to establish, expand, and enhance lifesaving and preventive programs in Southwest Florida. Contributions to the Foundation benefit all five Lee Health hospitals and specialty services. In the past year, the Foundation provided $34+ million in funding to enhance patient care throughout the region. Please visit LeeHealthFoundation.org for more information about the role of Lee Health philanthropy in Southwest Florida.