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A major community event in South Florida is set to spotlight leadership, collaboration, and the ongoing effort to strengthen support systems for children and families across Miami-Dade County
The inaugural Be a Champion Awards Gala, hosted by Children’s Home Society of Florida (CHS) and presented by Dex Imaging, will bring together community leaders, organizations, and advocates committed to advancing public education, community awareness, and youth development. Scheduled for May 2, 2026, the event reflects a growing regional focus on collaborative solutions that improve outcomes for families and future generations.
At its core, the “Be a Champion” gala highlights how partnerships between public institutions, nonprofits, and private organizations can create meaningful change across South Florida—especially in areas impacting youth well-being, mentorship, and access to opportunity.
Recognizing leadership and community impact
The Be a Champion Awards Gala will honor five individuals and organizations whose work has made a measurable difference in Miami-Dade County. These honorees represent a cross-section of leadership, from government to nonprofit and corporate sectors, each playing a role in strengthening community infrastructure.
Among those being recognized is Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniela Levin Cava, honored as Community Partner for her role in supporting initiatives that prioritize families and children. The Children’s Trust, led by James R. Haj, will receive the Champion for Children Award for its continued investment in youth programs and community services.
Additional “Be a Champion” honorees include the U.S. Soccer Foundation, recognized for its Community Impact through programs that promote physical activity and youth engagement, and Griffin Catalyst, which will receive the Community Legacy Award for its contributions to long-term social impact efforts. Ernst & Young LLP, represented by Patty Burleson, will be honored as Inspirational Leader for its commitment to corporate responsibility and community support.
According to CHS leadership, the gala is designed not only to recognize achievements but also to reinforce a broader message: that sustained community progress depends on collective action and long-term investment in families.
A platform for youth development and community connection
The inspiration behind the “Be a Champion” gala is rooted in a successful local initiative—the development of a mini soccer pitch built in 2025 at a Hands In Action site. This project has become a symbol of how targeted investments in youth spaces can foster leadership, teamwork, and essential life skills.
Programs tied to the initiative focus on more than recreation. They provide structured opportunities for mentorship, emotional development, and peer connection, helping young participants build confidence while navigating real-life challenges. These types of initiatives align with broader efforts across Miami-Dade County to expand access to safe, supportive environments for youth.
Community leaders involved in the gala emphasize that spaces like these play a critical role in public education and awareness, offering alternatives that promote positive development and long-term success. By bringing together stakeholders from multiple sectors, the event serves as both a celebration and a strategic platform for future collaboration.
The Be a Champion initiative is also intended to grow into a long-term program that continues recognizing leadership while expanding resources for children and families. Organizers see the gala as the beginning of an ongoing effort to elevate community-driven solutions and encourage continued investment in youth-focused programs.
As South Florida continues to evolve, events like this reflect a shared understanding that strong communities are built through partnership, accountability, and a commitment to future generations. For continued coverage on community initiatives and leadership across Miami-Dade County, subscribe to the Calle Ocho News newsletter. For advertising and partnership opportunities, contact Pressnet Corp.