David Nelson Jr. passed away suddenly in July 2006. During his journey, David’s compassion for others resulted in his decision to be an organ donor. David saved the lives of five other people.

In his memory, David’s family and friends established the David Nelson Jr. Memorial Fund. The Fund provides educational scholarships for children of deceased organ and tissue donors. The Nelson family have provided these scholarships since 2009 and have awarded over $50,000 in scholarships for children of organ and tissue donors in partnership with Gift of Life Donor Program.

Additionally, in a continued effort to honor donors, raise awareness for organ and tissue donation, and support transplant families, each year the Nelson’s along with their extended family and friends host an annual “No Shower Happy Hour” fundraising event in North Wildwood, NJ. All proceeds support Gift of Life Howie’s House. In 2022, a record-breaking $54,978 was raised at the event with over 500 people in attendance. Since 2015 alone, this annual event has raised over $139,000!

At the House, guests are asked to pay a highly subsidized room fee of only $40 a night rather than the actual cost of more than $180. No family is turned away if they cannot afford the fee. This is made possible thanks in part to the Nelson family and their incredible community of supporters who have steadfastly championed the House’s mission for more than a decade.

This year’s Happy Hour took place on Saturday, July 8th celebrating the memory of Officer Casey Kandel.

Each year the David Nelson Jr. Memorial Fund hosts the “No Shower Happy Hour” fundraising event in North Wildwood, NJ. This event has proven to be a major success, helping to raise funds for the House and spread awareness about organ donation. This year was no exception!

The 15th Annual No Shower Happy Hour was held in memory of Casey Kandel, a Philadelphia Police Officer, who lived a life dedicated to the service of others and saved many lives through organ donation. Keenan’s Irish Pub was brimming with Casey’s family, friends, and coworkers who came to honor him at this incredible event. Not only was there an amazing turnout, but the No Shower Happy Hour also raised significant funds in support of Gift of Life Howie’s House! We want to take a moment to thank The David Nelson Jr Memorial Fund, the Nelson family and friends, Philadelphia Police Department and everyone who helped to put this event together as well as our many sponsors, contributors, and attendees. We are so appreciative of your support and generosity

If you have any questions about the No Shower Happy Hour fundraising event, please contact Patricia Nelson via email at pattynelly218@yahoo.com.

More about David Nelson Jr. Memorial Fund

Over the years, the Nelson family and the David Nelson Jr. Memorial Fund community have participated in many Gift of Life initiatives including the Donor Dash, Hearts of Gold, as well as many speaking engagements and volunteer opportunities to support the transplant community. In 2013 the Nelson family represented Gift of Life Donor Program at the Rose Day Parade in California. David Nelson jr. was honored with a handmade flower graph and Patty, David’s mother, got to ride on the Donate Life Rose Parade float.