Over 800 community leaders, advocates, and dignitaries filled Jungle Island’s Bloom Ballroom for The Children’s Trust’s 20th Annual Champions for Children Awards Ceremony. The sold-out event, presented by TD Bank, celebrates exceptional individuals and programs making a meaningful and lasting impact in Miami-Dade County.

This signature celebration brought together everyone from longtime advocates to rising youth leaders, all united in their commitment to advancing child welfare. With heartfelt acceptance speeches and special recognitions, it was an inspiring afternoon. “For 20 years, The Children’s Trust has honored dozens of individuals and programs whose exemplary leadership and high-quality work have helped children and families across Miami-Dade thrive,” said The Children’s Trust president & CEO James R. Haj. “Our community continues to succeed and innovate because of leaders like today’s Champions.” The event’s highest honor, the David Lawrence Jr. Champion for Children Award, was presented to Gepsie Metellus, Co-founder, Sant La, for her lifelong commitment to her community and the success of every child.

Excellence in Advocacy Award

Honorable Alexis Calatayud, Florida State Senator, for her tireless work in policy to support early learning and other key issues.

Excellence in Direct Service Award

Twala Kelly, a social worker with the University of Miami, School Health Initiative, for her hands-on commitment to families navigating complex challenges, making sure students’ needs are addressed in a holistic and personalized manner.

Excellence in Youth Leadership Award

Andrea Cabrera-Elguezabal, a high school student at Young Women’s Preparatory Academy, for her commitment to children, youth, and families.

Program of the Year Award

Families First Program at UHealth Mailman Center for Child Development
Little SEALS Program at UM Linda Ray Intervention Center
The Children’s Trust Parent Club – FIU Center for Children and Families

Presenting Sponsor

TD Bank

Platinum Sponsor

City National Bank

Gold Sponsors

Barry University
Community Health of South Florida
Senator Rene Garcia
University of Miami
Webauthor
WELS
WOW Marketing
Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald

Silver Sponsors

Agencia Central
Armstrong Creative Consulting
Baptist Health
Corcoran Partners
Cigna Healthcare
Early Learning Corps
EdFed
Florida International University Center for Children and Families
Greenberg Traurig
Health Foundation of South Florida
Key Biscayne Community Foundation
Miami Dolphins Foundation
The Miami Foundation
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital
Q-Q Research
Reach Out & Read Florida
Ramax Miami
Commissioner Raquel Regalado
Uber
United Way Miami

About The Children’s Trust

The Children’s Trust is a dedicated source of revenue, supported by ad valorem property taxes, that funds hundreds of programs across thousands of sites in Miami-Dade to directly serve children and their families. Local voters established The Trust in 2002, and 86% of voters permanently reauthorized it in 2008 to ensure it continues to positively shape Miami-Dade’s future. For more information, visit www.TheChildrensTrust.org.