Miami’s brightest stars aligned for an out-of-this-world evening when Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade hosted its 17th Annual “Wild About Kids” Gala “GALAxia Night, at the elegant Loews Coral Gables Hotel, raising more than $700,000 to empower area youth through academic, creative and athletic programs. From one-on-one mentoring and STEM education to tutoring, sports, and the arts, proceeds raised from “GALAxia Night” power the Clubs’ mission to help every child reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

More than 300 supporters, including South Florida’s top philanthropists, business leaders, and community champions, gathered for an interstellar black-tie celebration featuring a sparkling cocktail reception, gourmet three-course dinner, live entertainment and dancing, to support thousands of Boys & Girls of Miami-Dade’s youth members.

WSVN’s Belkys Nerey and Lynn Martinez returned to the spotlight as the evening’s dynamic emcees and kept the crowd engaged with their renowned humor and energy. Guests enjoyed a mesmerizing performance by Latin soul sensation Lucy Grau and a spirited showcase by Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Dance Stars, highlighting the talent, creativity and confidence nurtured by the Clubs’ programs.

Throughout the evening, supporters had the opportunity to make an impact by sponsoring a youth member or by participating in a curated silent auction featuring VIP experiences, exclusive travel, fine jewelry, and more.

“We are sincerely grateful for the support from all those who made our 17^th Annual ‘Wild About Kids’ Gala ‘GALAxia Night’ at Loews Coral Gables Hotel a success,” said Alex Rodriguez-Roig, president of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. “The evening wouldn’t be possible without our Gala Chair, Michelle Zubizarreta, our board members and donors who are committed to supporting great futures for our area youth. This evening helps fuel the programs that open doors for thousands of kids each year.”

“GALAxia Night was not only a celebration of our community’s generosity but also of the dreams and determination of the children we serve,” said Gala Chair Zubizarreta. “Together, we’re helping the next generation of Miami-Dade youth reach for the stars.”

Gala Chair

Michelle Zubizarreta

Special Event Chair

Olga Guilarte

The Host Committee

Board Chair Rodolfo “Rudy” Lleonart
Alina Bezold
Liana de Mena
Jackie Gonzalez
Isabel Jettinghoff
Lisa Mendelson
Yuni Navarro
Kristina Perez-Cubas
Abigail Pollak
Karen Rodriguez
Andy and Allison Stuart
Eris Thomas
Meredith Virnig

Supernova Presenting Sponsor

Carmen Rebozo Foundation

Mission Control Sponsor

The Ansin Foundation/WSVN

Lunar Luminary Sponsors

DRRT
Lisa and Victor Mendelson Family
OceanBank
Allison and Andy Stuart
Thoma Bravo
Meredith and Kenneth Virnig
Michelle Zubizarreta and Jorge Xiques

Stellar Supporters

Abigail Pollak
Anthony R. Abraham Foundation
Baptist Health
Bermont Gold Wealth Advisory of Raymond James
Florida Power & Light
Margaret and Clint Gulley
Gemini, Harding+
INB, and
USI Insurance and

Underwriters

Amazon
Bernhardt Family
Coconut Grove Bank & Trust
Planning & Economics Group
Bob Parks
Mark & Greta Walker Foundation
Amanda Rodriguez
WSVN 7
Ada and Jose Armas

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been serving youth in the community since 1946. What once was a single building and site for boys has grown to six Clubs and sites combined serving thousands of boys and girls year-round, providing programs in the areas of character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, cultural arts and sports, fitness and recreation. Club staffing, initiatives, and programs are designed to inspire and enable area youth and provide them with the resources to succeed and share in the American Dream. For more information, please call 305.446.9910 or visit www.bgcmia.org, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.