Branches, a local nonprofit dedicated to serving children and families throughout Miami-Dade County through its educational and financial wellness programs, celebrated its 50^th anniversary at the 2023 Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala and Online Auction. Guests enjoyed a fun and philanthropic night under neon lights at the J.W. Marriott Marquis Miami, where they had the opportunity to play various games like Mario Kart, corn hole, foosball, and more with their guests as well as Branches youth.

This year’s Gala was made possible thanks to Philanthropic Chairs Trish and Dan Bell, Gala Chairs Karla and Scott Richey, Master of Ceremonies, Ron Magill of Zoo Miami, and countless supporters and partners. Trish and Dan Bell also provided a generous $ for $ Matching Grant for all gifts made to the evening’s appeal. The Gala program featured games, a performance by opera singer and Branches Financial Coach Ray Gonzalez, plus an Online Auction. The event also honored Ana VeigaMilton and Cecil Milton of The José Milton Foundation with the “2023 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 $650,000 for Branches’ programs which provide life-changing opportunities for families to help them break the cycle of generational poverty.

Top Sponsors

Premier Sponsor

Trish & Dan Bell

Shining Star Sponsor

Himan Brown Charitable Trust

Diamond Sponsor

Aetna

 Platinum Sponsors

Kathy & Scott Howard

Kate Inman & Daniel Haines

Truist

Gold Sponsors

Rodney H. Bell

Victoria & Jason Randolph

Jesse & Filipe Vieira da Rocha

City National Bank

The Huizenga Family Foundation

The José Milton Foundation

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

St. John’s on the Lake

The Tonkinson Foundation

UnitedHealthcare