The Children’s Trust will celebrate the people and programs improving the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County at the 12th annual Champions for Children Awards Ceremony on Friday, Aug. 25.
The event will see U.S. Rep. Frederica S. Wilson accept the prestigious David Lawrence Jr. Champion for Children Award for lifetime achievement and dedication to children, in particular the community’s most vulnerable.
Champions for Children, often called the “Oscars of Child Advocacy,” celebrates unparalleled achievement in serving the community by honoring local industry “stars.” It is a signature event among Miami-Dade’s robust network of child and family advocates, and inspires others to follow in the footsteps of those who have reached the highest levels of excellence in service.
The celebration, taking place from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom, features an urban theme this year, utilizing bright colors and street art inspired by and crafted in Miami.
“Recognizing the life-changing efforts of local pioneers — from elected officials to innovative programs to people in the trenches with children every day — is an essential part of our efforts to build momentum in our community,” said James R. Haj, president and CEO of
The Children’s Trust. “This event is part of a bigger vision: to inspire up-and-coming nonprofits to widen their reach, connect with trailblazers and continue their vital work in Miami-Dade County.”
In addition to performances by participants of the Young Talent Big Dreams youth performing arts competition, this year’s awards ceremony will feature an auction of original work by Miami-based artist Daniel “Krave” Fila, the proceeds of which will benefit The Children’s Trust. Fila, a multifaceted artist, is best known for his large-scale murals found throughout Miami, as well as his work for the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach, MTV, Greyhound, and SLS Hotel Miami Beach.
Award recipients:
U.S. Rep. Frederica S. Wilson, David Lawrence Jr. Champion for Children Award;
State Sen. René García, Excellence in Public Policy Award;
Andrea Fletcher, Children of Inmates, Excellence in Direct Service Award;
ABF Learning Center, Program of the Year;
AileyCamp Miami, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Program of the Year, and United Community Options of Miami, Program of the Year.
The Children’s Trust is a dedicated source of revenue established by voter referendum to improve the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County by making strategic investments in their future.
To learn more about The Children’s Trust or reserve your seat to the event, visit www.thechildrenstrust.org.
