2014 Children’s Hero Awards Gala
Benefiting Family Resource Center of South Florida
Family Resource Center of South Florida, Inc., a leading child welfare agency in Miami, raised over $50,000 at its 5th Annual Children’s Hero Awards. The event was held at the Miami Conrad Hotel and honored three community leaders who have made a difference in the lives of foster children across the state of Florida. Mr. Alberto M. Carvalho, Miami-Dade County’s Superintendent of Schools, was this year’s recipient of the Children’s Hero Award in recognition of his provision of critical educational resources and services to children in the foster care system, including the establishment of a data sharing project between Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the local Foster Care Agencies.
In acknowledgement of his outstanding contribution as a Family Resource Center board member, as well as his ongoing commitment to the agency, Mr. Mario Trueba, CEO and President of Sabadell United Bank, N.A., received this year’s Children’s Sustainer Award.
And for the first time, Family Resource Center was pleased to present the Child Welfare Legacy Award. It was bestowed upon Mr. Lawrence S. Hurwit, accomplished real estate developer and composer, for his lifetime body of work supporting children who have suffered child abuse and neglect. Notably, Mr. Hurwit created the Hurwit Children’s Emergency Shelter for those most vulnerable and in need of a safe haven. Built in Miami Gardens in 1981, this complex has sheltered many hundreds of children of all ages, as well as teen mothers and their infants.
The Gala was emceed by Sherry Truhlar of Red Apple Auctions who had people donating to the auction, laughing and enjoying the night! One of the highlights of the evening was hearing from Valentino K., a senior at Hialeah Senior and a foster child. Valentino shared his experiences in the system over the last four years, and how he found a father figure in his Family Resource Center case worker, Clinton Davis. Valentino is poised to go on to great things. His support system includes his foster mom and his mentor, Judge Rudy Ruiz, who are helping him prepare applications for college next year.
More than 75 businesses and organizations contributed to the Trips, Travel and Leisure Silent & Live Auction, which featured great getaway packages, local deals, sports memorabilia, jewelry by Chloe di Leo, live concert tickets, VIP tours and travel—there was something for everyone to enjoy! The event raised funds to support Family Resource Center’s programs and services for children in the foster care system.
The Children’s Hero Award Gala not only recognizes essential leaders who contribute to strengthening the foster care system, but also the overall importance of a community that helps promote the safety and well-being of children and families in South Florida.
To learn more about Family Resource Center of South Florida visit their website at www.frcflorida.org.
