‘Something We Do’

Their journey into philanthropy began in Cleveland, with John developing a lasting relationship with Cleveland Clinic. “I’ve known and respected Cleveland Clinic for about 70 years,” he says.

The Kellers’ commitment to healthcare took a significant turn when they moved to Florida. In 2001, after learning more about the local medical facilities near their hometown of Hobe Sound, John first became involved with Martin Health, a regional hospital that was integrated with Cleveland Clinic in 2019. His efforts on the hospital’s foundation board ensured that Martin Health could attract top-tier doctors, improving the quality of care for residents. 

John and Judy have made both outright and planned gifts to support various initiatives at Martin Health and now Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, spanning the past 23 years. Their support for the hospital will help fund the Martin Market Expansion, a new philanthropic initiative and phased approach to expand the Stuart Family Health Center, renovate Martin North and South Hospitals and add a Women’s Center. These projects will help accommodate a growing population by alleviating barriers to access, improving patient experience and elevating healthcare in the community. 

“A lot of people in Florida are new to the area, and their roots, particularly in medical care, are strongly back home in the north,” says John. “We want them to know that they can feel comfortable with a place like Cleveland Clinic. They’re going to have just as good care in Florida as they would back north.” 

The Kellers’ philanthropic reach extends beyond healthcare. John is currently on the board of the Everglades Foundation. He previously was Chair of the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Chicago Theological Seminary, while Judy was Chair of the Lincoln Park Zoo Board of Directors and a trustee of the Art Institute of Chicago. 

“Giving back is just something we do,” Judy says. “Philanthropy can help so many people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to healthcare.”