Over 500 philanthropists and community leaders attended the 19th Annual Guardians of the Children Luncheon benefiting Holtz Children’s Hospital at the JW Marriott Marquis Friday, Nov. 17 in downtown Miami. Thanks to an incredible show of philanthropic support, the luncheon raised more than $600,000 for Holtz Children’s, who is among the nation’s top children’s hospitals in 2017-18, according to U.S. News & World Report. The event featured a cocktail reception and a Saks Fifth Avenue Dadeland fashion show where guests enjoyed their Fall 2017 and Resort 2018 Collections.
“The Guardians Angels Luncheon has become one of the most anticipated social events in Miami thanks to the hard work of our committee, who works tirelessly all year to educate our community on the miracles that take place daily at Holtz Children’s,” said Silvia Rios Fortun, Guardian Angels President. “It’s our mission to bring awareness and support to this amazing and most-needed hospital.”
Celebrity hostess, WPLG news anchor, Laurie Jennings, along with the luncheon committee, welcomed 42 new Guardian Angels during the event. The guest of honor was eight-year-old patient, Julia, who received life-saving treatments at Holtz Children’s and the UM/JM Burn center after being in a serious car accident earlier this year. Other notable guests included Spanish television celebrities Ana Maria Canseco, Adamari Lopez, Aleyda Ortiz, Chef Yisus, Dra Nancy Alvarez, Johnny Lozada and Maripily Rivera.
“This year’s luncheon was a great success thanks to the vision and dedication of our Guardian Angels. This event is a true labor of love for our committee and we cannot be more thankful for their generosity during almost two decades of support,” said Keith Tribble, President and CEO of Jackson Health Foundation.
Sponsors for this year’s event included AON, Bank United, Calvin Giordano & Associates, Inc., Chateau D’esclans, Florida National University, Florida Power and Light, Ines Lorenzo Gomez, Lila Menowitz, Marquis Bank, Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits, The Jills, Valentina Victoria Gomez and Viyella Group at Morgan Stanley. Media sponsors were The Miami Herald/Nuevo Herald, Indulge Magazine, WPLG Local 10, Miami Modern Luxury, and Selecta Magazine.
About Jackson Health Foundation
Jackson Health Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, raises philanthropic support and awareness for Jackson Health System, the most comprehensive healthcare provider in South Florida. Through the generosity of compassionate supporters, the Foundation financially assists Jackson Health System in
providing world-class medical care to children and adults in South Florida and the global community, regardless of their ability to pay. The philanthropic support received helps fund major projects at Jackson that cannot be financed by bond support. Established in 1991, the Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors committed to philanthropic activities that benefit Jackson Health System. For more information please visit www.JacksonHealthFoundation.org or call 305.585.GIVE (4483).
