Chapman Partnership will honor Miami-Dade County Retired Judge Steve Leifman with the Alvah H. and Betty B. Chapman Humanitarian Award for his transformative work in mental health and criminal justice reform. The award will be presented at the 30^th Anniversary Illuminations Gala on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the JW Marriott Marquis.

“Judge Leifman’s groundbreaking work in mental health has changed lives and systems, helping break the cycle of homelessness for countless individuals,” said Scott Hansel, President & CEO of Chapman Partnership. “His trauma-informed approach creates a streamlined path to care—ensuring people receive support before crisis hits. His impact is felt across Miami-Dade, where mental illness remains one of the top five causes of homelessness.”

We are also honored to announce this year’s Illuminations Gala Chairs: Jose & Heide Dans.

As passionate community leaders, Jose and Heide are deeply connected to Chapman Partnership’s mission and have dedicated themselves to helping families find stability, hope, and a brighter future. Their leadership will illuminate the path toward ending homelessness in our community.

Additionally, attendees will be able to celebrate our Legacy of Impact featuring Desmond Meade, a nationally recognized civil rights leader and former resident. Meade has been instrumental in restoring voting rights to returning citizens and advancing justice, dignity, and second chances for countless individuals. His work embodies Chapman Partnership’s vision of creating pathways to stability and opportunity, and his recognition will serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one leader can have in transforming lives and communities.

We are also thrilled to announce our Illuminary Hostess Extraordinaire for this year’s Gala, the esteemed Laurie Jennings.

A distinguished journalist and philanthropist, Laurie has spent over three decades amplifying important community voices. She has earned six Emmy Awards and the NATAS Silver Circle and is recognized as one of South Florida’s most trusted news anchors. Beyond her celebrated journalism career, Laurie is deeply dedicated to supporting organizations such as Chapman Partnership, Voices for Children, and more. She is also a proud recipient of the Trish Bell Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring individuals who inspire hope and opportunity in their communities.

Chapman Partnership is also proud to recognize Trish and Dan Bell as the Philanthropic Sponsor of the 2025 Illuminations Gala. Their unwavering generosity and commitment to strengthening our community reflect the very spirit of this event and ensure its continued success in supporting Chapman’s mission.

The 2025 Illuminations 30^th Anniversary Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening of celebration, purpose, and commitment to the mission that no one sleeps on the streets of Miami

About Chapman Partnership

Provide comprehensive programs and services in collaboration with others that empower our residents with dignity and respect to overcome homelessness, and achieve and maintain long-term self-sufficiency.