Kristi House, Inc., the Children’s Advocacy Center for all of Miami-Dade County, raised more than $1.1 million for specialized services for victims of child abuse, sex trafficking and other trauma its annual gala on Saturday, April 15 at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel.
Upon arrival, attendees donned beads, masks, hats and boas for a lively cocktail reception with libations supplied by Republic National Distributing Company. Jugglers, stilt walkers, a Tarot Card reader and a Second Line New Orleans’ style band completed the Miami Mardi Gras theme. The Potamkin Family served as the title sponsors with other lead support from the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation and Goya Cares.
Auctions featured one-of-a-kind vacations, VIP experiences and luxury goods. An amazing week aboard a luxury yacht for 10 with complete crew and chef, a week in Bali and luxury goods made for a lively and competitive auction.
State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle was named Kristi House’s inaugural “Crusader of the Year” for her dedication to safeguarding Miami-Dade County’s children. Miami-Beach Mayor Dan Gelber presented the award on behalf of Kristi House, and told guests it should be called “Crusader of a Lifetime” for her relentless quest for justice on behalf of children.
“Our inaugural honoree for Crusader of the Year, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, was an easy choice,” Kristi House CEO Amanda Altman said. “We salute her enduring dedication to healing the hurt.”
“We were truly amazed by the outpouring of generosity and kindness from our community of donors, partners, and volunteers,” Altman added. “Their continued commitment to our mission is a testament to the importance of the work we do at Kristi House, and we are honored to have such dedicated supporters by our side.”
Gala Chair Norma Jean Abraham reflected on the event: “Not only did we exceed our fundraising goals, but we also were able to educate more community members about the horrific realities of child abuse and sex trafficking, some of which happens right here in our backyard,” she said. “These funds impact thousands of children, and we couldn’t be happier to be able to provide these families with the financial resources and sources they desperately deserve.”
