MIAMI.- José Martí said: “Helping those who need it is not only part of duty, but also part of happiness” and extending a generous hand and doing good for another person, even without knowing them, is part of the process of human growth. . Whoever changes one life changes all of humanity. And that support in difficult times leaves an invaluable mark.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida (RMHC) is a nonprofit institution that stands as a beacon of hope and support for families with children in critical condition. Its essential mission lies in keeping these family units united and close while their children receive medical care in the county’s main hospitals. This support center becomes a vital refuge in times of distress and uncertainty. However, demand exceeds supply, leaving a waiting list that reflects the urgency and need for this invaluable service. Many families find a temporary home in these facilities, extending their stay according to the medical needs of their loved ones.
Precisely, the RMHC of South Florida held its 31st Annual “12 Good Men” Luncheon at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel, an event that included the participation of important local political figures, philanthropists and businessmen with the objective of recognizing to those who make this project possible. The event honors 12 men known for their exceptional community involvement, civic service and support of South Florida charities. Candidates are initially nominated by previous recipients of the award. From there, the event committee meticulously chooses the honorees.
“Each year, I am tremendously inspired by our honorees and their dedication to serving our community. Their philanthropic efforts have had a profound impact on South Florida, and we are deeply grateful for their presence and recognition of our cause at the Ronald McDonald House of South Florida,” said Soraya Rivera-Moya, executive director of RMHC of South Florida.
DIARIO LAS AMÉRICAS spoke with a Colombian-Venezuelan family receiving these benefits: “Our son requires oncological treatments and follow-ups every six months. As the visits became more constant, our social worker proposed the idea of Ronald McDonald House to us. We tried it and it was the best decision. The help we receive is invaluable. Our son was diagnosed with kidney cancer at the age of two and over time he has evolved thanks to God and the different specialists. It is overwhelming what we have to go through in the exams and procedures without this support it would be practically impossible,” said the mother, noticeably excited and grateful.
“It is a blessing that comes from heaven and from the hand of the people who make this dream possible. It is a miracle. The satisfaction of seeing your son walking and having survived is priceless,” the father attests.
This event represents the primary fundraising initiative for RMHC of South Florida. The resources obtained during this lunch directly benefit the operations of the Ronald McDonald House in Miami.
Currently, concrete plans are in development for the construction of a new residence that will expand the care capacity for families in this region. The inception of the Ronald McDonald House dates back to 1984, a project established in honor of McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc, who demonstrated a strong commitment to the well-being of children.
The “12 Good Men” of 2024 are:
* Alex Mantecon: Co-CEO, MV Real Estate Holdings y Breakwater Hospitality
* Christian LaCapra: Vicepresidente Senior, Northern Trust
* David Zambrana: Executive Vice President and COO, Jackson Health System
* Frank J. Milton: COO, United Property Management y Vicepresidente Ejecutivo, J. Milton & Associates
* Jonathan Babicka: Director Ejecutivo, Little Lightouse Foundation
* Jonathan Truppman: Director Jurídico, ODDITY
* Jorge Arauz: Editor in Chief, TAG Media, Inc.
* Kinny R. Madori: CEO and Portfolio Manager, Kingdom Capital Management, INC.
* Raul Rodriguez: CEO, CREI Holdings
* Ronald L. Book: Founder, President and CEO, Ronald L. Book, PA
* Steve Stowe: Vice President and Executive Director, Miami Heat Charitable Fund
* Steve Zack: Socio, Boies, Schiller, Flexner
