Alumni Spotlight: Ron Platt - Class of 2020

Ron’s Mission: Turning Passion Into Purpose

For over two decades, many in the St. Pete community have known Ron as a successful realtor and innovative entrepreneur. But behind the scenes, there’s a deeper, more personal mission driving him—

Ron’s journey began 23 years ago when he fostered—and later adopted—a 13-year-old LGBTQ+ boy. The trauma his son endured before coming into Ron’s care revealed harsh truths about a broken system. That life-changing experience sparked a fire in Ron to be more than a parent—he became an advocate. “I knew I had to build a platform that could drive real change. And the only way to do that is to have a really loud voice.”

From Inspiration to Impact

Armed with years of experience in association management and insurance product development, Ron drew inspiration from the powerful AARP model. Just as AARP champions issues for Americans over 55, Ron’s vision is for NASDF - the National Association for Single and Divorced Families —to become an equally powerful force. “Congress won’t touch Medicare without consulting AARP. That’s how big I want NASDF to be—so that when I speak up for foster care reform, our leaders are forced to listen.”

Building NASDF

As CEO of Mix Marketing Alliance and co-founder of NASDF.org, Ron wears many hats. From product sourcing to marketing to managing their groundbreaking insurance prodprotects alimony and child support in cases of death, disability, or job loss—Ron is deeply involved in every layer of the operation.

NASDF’s goal is bold and clear: provide essential resources, support, and protection for single-parent and divorced households. With over 26 million families in this demographic, the potential for social impact—and financial success—is immense.

Pitching with Purpose

That vision recently resonated with the community in a big way: Ron and his partner Joy won the $5,000 grand prize at the St. Pete Pitch Night event, hosted by the St. Pete Greenhouse. “It was emotional,” Ron says. “The audience got it. They believed in what we’re building.”

What’s Next?

NASDF is currently in a second funding round, seeking $1 million to expand nationally. Ron is connecting with investors—many through his LSP network—who believe in supporting families through major life transitions. “We’re looking for people who want to help society heal. And when we hit 5,000 members, our advocacy for foster care reform officially begins. That’s when things get really exciting.”

The LSP Connection

A proud member of the LSPAA Leadership Development Committee, Ron says the program continues to shape his journey. “My LSP Class of 2020 friends know—when I believe in something, I’ll network, lead, and make it happen.”

Although the pandemic halted the full completion of their class project, Ron fondly remembers prepping for the mural as a meaningful moment of connection and effort.

Zen & Balance

When he’s not advocating or building something bold, you can find Ron kayaking, biking, reading, or soaking in the serenity of the beach—anything that brings a little Zen into his mission-filled life.