On the evening of March 9th Latin Grammy Award winner flutist Nestor Torres will be joining The Melissa Institute for Violence Prevention and Treatment’s Annual Peace & Harmony fundraising event at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove. The Melissa Institute was established in 1996 to honor the memory of Melissa Aptman, murdered at the age of 22, two weeks prior to her college graduation.
Mr. Torres says, “The Melissa Institute’s mission is to make our homes, schools, and communities safer and healthier places to live. Isn’t that we all want for our children and families? For 23 years they have been teaching everyone they can the best ways to reduce violence and promote healthy relationships. I am proud to add my music to this effort with a special concert to help bring peace within and promote harmony with one another. Knowing that music was a source of joy for Melissa, I have put together a unique musical program to honor and celebrate her spirit.”
“Our training programs have reached thousands of parents, teachers, health professionals and law enforcement personnel, preparing a critical mass of people to stop the violence and promote safety in our communities. However, much more remains to be done. This event is a wonderful opportunity for those who want to see our children and families thrive to come together to support our programs—to come together for peace and harmony,” says Etiony Aldarondo, Executive Director of the Melissa Institute.
The event, which will take place from 7 to 11 p.m, will also feature a silent auction and a keynote address by Dr. Judy Schaechter, Chair, Department of Pediatrics at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine.
Limited seating available. Reserve your space now www.melissainstitute.org.
