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Putting the fun in fundraising, fall events brought out creativity and community spirit as South Florida nonprofits hosted festive events that blended fun with purpose.
The 13th annual A Safe Haven in Wonderland Gala was held at the InterContinental Miami on Saturday, Oct. 25. A Safe Haven for Newborns’ founder and CEO Nick Silverio was on hand to celebrate the 433 babies and counting who have been saved from abandonment.
Joining Nick on stage was Lauren Pastrana, of CBS4 News, who returned once again as emcee. A short program during dinner featured moving testimonies by Gloria and Milagros who were left in safety with Safe Haven by their mothers who wanted them to have a future they could not provide.
A silent auction, raffle and some amazing entertainment and dancing made the night truly unforgettable. The organization has expanded its outreach and has outgrown its space. Plans are underway to build a new stand-alone office building in order to better facilitate the work they are doing which has impacted areas well beyond our state.
On Oct. 29, the Coral Gables Woman’s Club transformed the club’s historic ballroom into a “Paw-rade,” where dozens of dogs strutted their stuff in adorable costumes. Guests enjoyed treats, music, dancing, and pet vendors and event chair Alex Guillen partnered with Canine Companions to showcase rescue dogs that were up for adoption that night.
Festivities continued through the weekend across the county. The Coconut Grove Rotary Club hosted a Halloween Bingo, while other Grove Rotarians held a Monster Mash. On Halloween day, the Voices for Children “Be A Hero” Luncheon at Loews Coral Gables Hotel drew a sold-out crowd, including Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, a VFC co-founder. Attendees embraced the superhero theme, raising vital funds for foster children.
Meanwhile, the Junior Orange Bowl launched its festival season, preparing for the county’s largest parade on Dec. 14. New executive director Mimmi Balaam, a University of Miami alum from Australia, shared her vision on Gloria’s Gab LIVE. The show was a way to introduce Mimmi, discuss her background, and promote the upcoming season already underway.
Coming up soon is the JOB’s annual basketball tournament. For JOB Basketball chair Chuck Little this is the main event of many he holds during the year. Of course, JOB probably is best known for its world-class tennis and golf tournaments, both of which are free for spectators. If you want to see future pros, there is no better place. For info on all the events, visit Jrorangebowl.org.
Beyond festivities, global causes found a local stage. On Nov. 3, Football for Peace, FIU’s Institute of Environment, and the FIFA World Cup 26 Miami Host Committee hosted Unity/Water Youth Activation Day, combining sports, science, and sustainability. Sixty local teens explored Biscayne Bay by boat, joined by Olympic gold medalist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, former NFL player Johnathan Cyprien, and other athletes.
Finally, Coral Gables Woman’s Club members kicked off holiday shopping for a cause. A Lele Reis Jewelry Pop-Up at Suranas in Merrick Park benefited the club’s Free Children’s Dental Clinic, thanks to designer and CGWC member Leticia Matheus, a longtime supporter of the club’s charitable mission.
Next up the club’s is collecting canned goods for thanksgiving food baskets for the families of the club’s free children’s dental clinic as well as $20 Target gift cards as holiday gifts for the patients they serve.
Upcoming events for your calendar:
Through Dec. 21 – Man of la Mancha musical at Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables; www.actorsplayhouse.org
Dec, 2 – CGWC Gringo Bingo, Birdie Bistro, 6:30 p.m., RSVP to gloria@cnews.net; $30 per person includes 13 bingo games and one drink
Dec. 3-7 – Merrick Festival Caroling Competition and Dec. 9 Award Show, 550 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, Admission is free.
Dec. 4 – White’s Art Festival and Marine’s Toys for Tots reception hosted by Intercontinetal Doral, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; admission is free with donation of an unwrapped gift; RSVP NMG Consulting at 305-470-4680.
Dec. 6 – Jingle Bells Run for Arthritis Foundation at Tropical Park, $45 untimed race at 9 a.m.; come in your craziest, funniest holiday attire; Santa will be there.
Dec. 6 – The Villagers Holiday Home Tour “Stroll in the Grove”
Dec. 11 – Toy Drive/Mixer at Intercontinental Hotel Doral
Dec. 12 – Celebration of 10th anniversary of the dedication of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Doral
Dec. 14 – Junior Orange Bowl Parade; www.juniororangebowl.org
Dec. 9-17 – Junior Orange Bowl International Tennis Tournament
Dec. 27-30 – Junior Orange Bowl Basketball Tournament
Jan. 3-6, 2026 – Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Tournament, Biltmore Golf Course, 8 a.m. daily
In closing, remember to count your blessings, share a kind word and a smile, and make a difference.
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