Music legends and South Florida icons Gloria and Emilio Estefan will be inducted into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame during the Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation (MCHF) 2011 Diamond Ball it was announced recently by Lucy Morillo-Agnetti, MCHF president and CEO.
The gala will take place at JW Marriot Marquis Miami on Saturday, Oct. 29.
“Miami Children’s Hospital has been an institution in our community for decades,” said Gloria and Emilio. “We have personally been involved with the hospital and foundation on many levels and have witnessed firsthand the incredible care and service they provide to their patients and families. To be recognized and receive an honor of this caliber from an organization that does such great work for our families is truly an honor.”
Named after the first chair and president of MCH Foundation, the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame was created in 1986 to recognize and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the health and happiness of children everywhere. It is the highest honor bestowed by the MCH Foundation.
The Estefans will join an exclusive group of legendary children’s advocates, including Beyoncé, Dwyane Wade, Barbara and Jack Nicklaus, Kelly Preston, Jonas Salk and Walt Disney.
The Estefans were selected for their work on behalf of children, not just in their own backyard, but on a global scale. For years, they have donated countless amounts of money and created awareness for a variety of leading children’s causes through the Gloria Estefan Foundation. They are active supporters of MCH Foundation as well as other non-profits. Much of the time, their donations are made anonymously.
“Children’s lives have been saved as a direct result of the Estefans support and many times it goes unnoticed,” Morillo-Agnetti said. “Gloria and Emilio have instilled the value of philanthropy and their passion for children’s causes to their children and we believe this deserves to be recognized on an international level.”
One of South Florida’s most anticipated charity events, the Diamond Ball is known for amazing guests each year with unique venues, fresh themes and appearances by South Florida’s social elite.
The event previously has been held at AmericanAirlines Arena, featuring performances by Smokey Robinson and Gloria Gaynor, and the Fontainebleau with entertainment including Albita and Anthony Bucciero.
“This year we will create an ambiance that features South Florida’s rich Latin culture mixed with local flair,” Morillo-Agnetti said. “The Diamond Ball leaves lasting memories for our guests each year that create buzz for the following year. We like to start the social season with an event that is tough to match.”
For a complete list of previous Hall of Fame inductees, visit online at http://mchf.org/2079/Benefits-of-Giving/Hall-of-Fame.aspx. To learn more about becoming a part of the 2011 Diamond Ball, contact Morgana Rolle at mrolle@mchf.org or call 786-624-2038.
To learn more about the foundation and offer support, visit online at www.mchf.org, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MCHFoundation, or call 305-666-2889.
