On Wednesday, July 13, 7:30 – 10:30 a.m., the Westin is once again hosting and underwriting their Annual Give Kids the World Scoops of Hope Breakfast. Tickets for this full American breakfast buffet that even includes ice cream for dessert are $10 per person. 100 percent of the proceeds go to charity. Any charity that wants to sell tickets will get to keep half of the money they collect. For sports teams, schools, service organizations and others, this is a no risk way to raise money for special programs and the breakfast is amazing, certainly worth lots more than $10. Several South Dade charities have participated over the years and more are welcomed. Top ticket seller last year was Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Those interested may send a request for tickets on consignment to Gloria@communitynewspapers.com or call 305-284-7379.
Speaking of charities, Steven Tonkinson, who is the son of Pinecrest residents Margarita and Rick Tonkinson, is off to Fiji to coordinate efforts with the delivery of Shelter Boxes after the island was once again hit with a Cyclone. Steven is an emergency response team member who takes off time as needed from Tonkinson Financial one month each year to respond to disasters. Each shelter box provides cover and supplies for ten people for months after a disaster occurs. Steven has been deployed seven times, most recently last April to Malawi in response to some major flooding where he helped to deliver lifesaving aid to the people who needed it most.
Since ShelterBox was founded, they have responded to over 240 disasters and humanitarian crises in more than 90 different countries and provided emergency aid for well over one million people. It actually began as a Rotary project in England that grew to a global effort; so it is no wonder that the Rotary Club of Coral Gables where Steven’s parents are members chose to honor him with an Honorary Membership.
Finally, the Rotaract Club, a group of young people ages 18 – 30 sponsored by the Rotary Club of Coral Gables, is looking for members who want to serve the community. Andres Albino, a student at the University of Miami, recently became the club’s new president. With his dynamic board, he is looking to grow their membership beyond UM and encourages college students and others interested in joining to contact him at albino@hotmail.com.
Until next time, keep making each day count!
If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via email to Gloria@communitynewspapers.com.
