What is JTA?

Since Jacksonville Transplant Alliance was founded, our group has ebbed and flowed with changes in our organizations and representatives.  But in recent years, with COVID, the lack of in-person events and the growth of social media, we have had to make some difficult decisions.

The board of directors voted in February 2023 to pursue our work through social media only.  We will continue to dedicate ourselves to our website and our Facebook page to provide information valuable to transplant recipients.  Our prescription reimbursement program will remain fully intact until the funds are depleted.  And of course, our commitment to raise the social consciousness of organ, tissue, and eye donation, and educate others about the facts and myths of donation and transplantation will continue.​  

We are proud and grateful celebrants of the Gift of Life, and we remain steadfast in helping ensure that all those awaiting that Gift receive it.

If you have any questions about donation or transplant, particularly here in the northeast Florida area, we have people that are eager to help.  Please email us at JaxTransplant@gmail.com.  

The Jacksonville Transplant Alliance was founded in 2007 when three people deeply rooted in organ donation and transplantation saw the need for area transplant organizations to collaborate.  Joye Hampton, Rod Lee and Steve Binder brought together members of the local transplant support groups and representatives of area organizations who worked with transplant patients, to join the JTA.

Joye Hampton - As Executive Director of Nielsen Organ ​Transplant Foundation from 1997-2011, Joye raised thousands of dollars to help area transplant patients in need of financial assistance. She organized dozens of fundraising and donor awareness activities throughout Northeast Florida, and volunteered for many more.  Joye was Chairperson of JTA in 2010 and served as Communications Director and Treasurer until 2014.  She resigned from the JTA Board of Directors in 2014 to take a full-time job, but remains close with members of the group.  Joye became involved in the transplant community when her father received a heart transplant in 1991.  

Rod Lee - Rod received a kidney from his daughter in 1997 and quickly proved himself to be an invaluable volunteer working with area transplant organizations and a strong proponent of organ and tissue donation.  In the late 90's and early 2000's, Rod served as Treasurer of TRIO of Northeast Florida, and competed in the 2004 and 2006 U.S. Transplant Games.  He was instrumental in getting the Gabriel House of Care built, and served as Night Manager there for 4 years.  Rod was Chairperson of the JTA in 2007 and Treasurer of the organization from 2013-2018.  Sadly and suddenly, Rod passed away in December of 2018.  Rod was a kind, gentle, and giving soul.  He and his dedication and service to the transplant community will be sorely missed.  ​

Steve Binder - Steve is a liver and three-time kidney recipient.  Since his first transplant in 1994, Steve has been a leader and active volunteer with several transplant organizations, including TRIO, National Kidney Foundation, Second Chance Support Group and JTA.  He's competed in four U.S. Transplant Games and the 1997 World Transplant Games in Sydney.  Writing and graphic design are key ways he likes to volunteer.  Steve served as JTA Chairperson in 2014 and 2019.  He currently serves as Treasurer and board member. He is also co-chair of the Gift of Life Celebration committee.  He is dedicated to educating and supporting transplant patients, and helping others start the conversation about organ donation.