Dotti Groover-Skipper

Dotti Groover-Skipper has spent over four decades fighting for freedom, not just in legislation, but in lives. A former NFL cheerleader for the Miami Dolphins (1978 -1980), she traded stadium lights for the frontlines of advocacy, founding the HeartDance Foundation to serve survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation. Since then, she has become a national voice in anti-trafficking efforts, mobilizing faith communities, influencing policy, and training thousands to see people with compassion and act with courage.

​

Dotti has received some of Florida’s highest honors for her work: “Florida Human Trafficking Advocate of the Year,” “Woman of Distinction,” “Lifetime Achievement Award,” “Citizen of the Year” “100 Women to Know in America” and has been recognized by the Tampa Bay Lightning Foundation as a “Community Hero.” But her proudest victories are personal: watching women who once felt invisible rise into healing, purpose, and power. At the core of her strength is her deep Christian faith, a marriage to her high school sweetheart Roger, and a life rich with love — seven children, three grandchildren, and a close-knit tribe of friends who lift her spirit daily.

​

Now nearing 70, Dotti embraces slower moments and deeper joy: sunset rocking chairs, riverside boat rides, sunflower gardens, and the quiet miracles she once rushed past. Her legacy is loud, but her peace is gentle.

​

What makes her the happiest?

When her family is thriving, her community is healing, and her life’s work is making a real difference.

​

Advice to her younger self

Hold tight to your beliefs. Stay authentic. Don’t let success

go to your head, or failure to your heart.

​

​

​