Don Taft was a philanthropic leader, blessed with intelligence, wit, and an infectious sense of humor. He not only supported many worthwhile not-for-profit causes, but he also gave of his personal time and skills to these organizations. Numerous honors have been presented to Don. In April 2009, he received the Spirit of Healing Award from the Memorial Foundation and the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation. In recognition of Don’s support of the athletes of Special Olympics, the Don Taft Athlete of the Year Award was established in 2009. On March 13, 2011, Don was named Humanitarian of the Year by the Emerald Society of Fort Lauderdale, Inc.

Don had over fifty years of business experience, including the management and representation of actors, writers, and directors. Don was most proud of his personal involvement in the activities of the organizations he supported. He died on February 20, 2011 at Holy Cross Hospital at the age of 90.