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Voices For Children, South Florida’s leading non-profit organization providing court-appointed Guardian ad Litems to neglected children, held its 25th Annual ‘Be A Voice’ Gala on Saturday, January 15 at the Mandarin Oriental Miami. The intimate, upscale gathering raised more than $700,000 to provide financial assistance for children in Miami-Dade County’s foster care system.
With support from the event’s title sponsor, Tiffany & Co., guests enjoyed an elegant cocktail reception, which included a “wishing tree” where attendees wrote and hung wishes for children who are currently in foster care. This moving activity was followed by a formal seated dinner, live auction, a powerful testimonial by Freddy Trujillo, a young adult who has directly benefited from the organization’s support, and impactful program emceed by 6-time Emmy Award-winning TV news reporter and anchor, Laurie Jennings.
Distinguished guests included Miami-Dade Mayor Daniela Levine Cava, Congressman Carlos Gimenez, Colombian Consul Pedro Valencia, Miami Dolphins Starting Defensive Lineman Raekwon Davis, who shared their admiration for Voices For Children’s 35+ year track record.
Additionally, Board of Director’s Chair Vince Castro, Board Members and Gala Co-Chairs Angel Ferrer and Yolanda Valencia reflected on the importance of collaboration with judges, attorneys, case managers, and Guardian ad Litems to advocate on behalf of foster children. Honorary Gala Chairs Feyza and Richard Shipley were also in attendance.
“We are humbled by the support received from our donors, partners, and volunteers shattering our fundraising goal, thus impacting the lives of thousands of children in need,” said Castro. “These essential funds will ensure our ability to provide a Guardian ad Litem to every foster child in Miami Dade County and offer financial support for summer/winter camps, after school activities, school supplies/uniforms, rent, and educational services.”
Gracious contributions were received from the Miami Marlins, Miami Dolphins, Jay Shapiro, and Raekwon Davis, who offered to have dinner with the highest bidder during the live auction.
To donate to Voices For Children, kindly visit beavoice.org/donate/ or call 305-324-5678 to learn more about the organization/process to get involved.
About Voices For Children Foundation
Voices For Children Foundation, Inc. raises funds to ensure that every abused, abandoned and neglected child in Miami-Dade County has a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem and that financial assistance and other resources are available for their health, educational, and social needs. For more information on Voices For Children, please visit https://beavoice.org/ or follow us on social media @voicesforchildren.
