The Children’s Trust proudly hosted its 18th annual Champions for Children Award Ceremony on Thursday, April 11, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Miami International Airport & Convention Center. Drawing nearly 1,300 attendees, the sold-out event, sponsored by TD Bank, celebrated the achievements of individuals and programs dedicated to serving the needs of children and families.
“Reflecting on the exceptional dedication and impactful contributions of this year’s Champions for Children recipients, we acknowledge their unwavering commitment to creating and shaping a brighter future for the youth of Miami-Dade County,” said The Children’s Trust President & CEO James R. Haj in a press release. “Each of their unique stories is a testament to the profound difference one can make in the lives of children and families. These inspiring individuals remind us all that positive change begins with a compassionate heart and a determined spirit.”
The following individuals were honored:
● Dr. William E. Pelham Jr. (Posthumous), Founding Director of the FIU Center for Children and Families, was recognized with the distinguished David Lawrence Jr. Champion for Children Award for lifetime achievement and dedication to children.
● Bianca Sandoval from Kayleen’s Learning Center received the Excellence in Direct Service to children and families Award.
● Zoe Terry, a 12th-grade Miami Country Day School student, was recognized as the second-ever Excellence in Youth Leadership Award recipient.
● Ruban Roberts, a licensed therapist who uses a holistic approach to youth by
developing evidence-based programs like Amplify Community Wellness and the Teen Talk Dialogue Sessions, was also honored with the Excellence in Advocacy Award.
Three Trust-funded programs were honored with the Program of the Year Award: The Children’s Trust Books For Free operated by Miami Dade College, The Liberty City Optimist Club of Florida, and the University of Miami’s Jump Start Program.
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of Presenting sponsor TD Bank, Platinum sponsor PNC Bank, Gold Sponsors City National Bank, Florida University Center for Children and Families, Miami Herald/ El Nuevo Herald, Senator Rene Garcia, University of Miami UHealth, Wels System, WOW MKTG, and Silver Sponsors ACentral, Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez, Florida Memorial University, Greenberg Traurig, Health Foundation of South Florida, Key Biscayne Community Foundation, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Office of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and United Way of Miami-Dade.
To learn more about the event and each award category, visit http://www.TheChildrensTrust.org/Champions
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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