Branches, a local nonprofit dedicated to serving children and families throughout Miami-Dade County through its educational and financial wellness programs, hosted its 2024 Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala and Online Auction at the J.W. Marriott Marquis Miami. Guests enjoyed a night of fun and philanthropy while celebrating todas las culturas Latinas that make Miami our Magic City.

This year’s Gala was made possible thanks to Philanthropic Chairs Trish and Dan Bell, Gala Chairs Karla and Scott Richey, Mistress of Ceremonies, Lissette Gonzalez of CBS News Miami, and countless supporters and partners. Trish and Dan Bell also provided a generous dollar for dollar matching grant for all gifts made to the evening’s appeal. The Gala program featured hand-rolled Cuban cigars, a Puerto Rican parranda performance, an online auction, and a live performance from the band Extasy. The event also honored Heide & Jose Dans with The 2024 Trish & Dan Bell Community Empowerment Award for their dedicated support of the South Florida community. Over 500 guests including local philanthropists and corporate partners attended the Gala and raised a record $715,000 for Branches’ programs which provide life-changing educational and financial wellness opportunities for children and families.

Premier Sponsor

Trish & Dan Bell

Shining Star Sponsor

Himan Brown Charitable Trust

Diamond Sponsors

Heide & Jose Dans
Alan & Brigitt Potamkin with Amanda Altman & David Lynn
Kathy & Scott Howard

Platinum Sponsors

Kate Inman & Daniel Haines
JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Gold Sponsors

Rodney H.  Bell
Kathy & Bob Kowalski
Victoria & Jason Randolph
Jesse & Filipe Vieira da Rocha
Villamil Family Endowment
Aetna
Banesco
City National Bank
Coastal Construction
First Horizon
FIU Foundation
The Huizenga Family Foundation
Lennar Foundation
SouthState Bank
St. John’s on the Lake
The Tonkinson Foundation