Ira Baer 

CFO, Baer’s Furniture 

On becoming a philanthropist: 

Philanthropy is in my blood. It started with my grandparents, Melvin and Lucille Baer. Since opening the first Baer’s store in 1945, they have been a shining example of being generous and giving back to your community. I primarily contribute to Jewish and cancer research organizations, but there are many other groups I have supported through the years, since 1989. At Baer’s Furniture, I take the lead on our family’s corporate giving. 

It’s Close to Home: 

My commitment to supporting cancer-related causes stems from a deeply personal experience—my brother is a cancer survivor. Witnessing his journey firsthand opened my eyes to the immense challenges faced by patients and their families. It also underscored the critical need for advancements in cancer research and improved access to care.  

Collaboration & Cooperation: 

We have collaborated with many of our vendors who enjoy participating in our efforts. Volunteering my time is a part of my daily and weekly schedule, as it is for many of the Baer Family. From sponsorships to matching efforts and even things as simple as handing out water bottles or food at charity biking/running fundraisers, it is thrilling to have our entire Baer’s team join the effort.

Ann Monis 

CEO, Transformative Healthcare Solutions 

On becoming a philanthropist: 

When my family immigrated to the U.S. from Israel, I was 9 years old. We arrived with nothing, crammed into a one-bedroom apartment with seven family members. My single mother worked multiple jobs, yet we faced hardships, living without health insurance, food security or basic needs. By 12, I worked to help our household. These struggles instilled resilience and a commitment to ensure others don’t face similar challenges and inspired me to establish the Florida Mental Health Coalition, which improves access to mental health services, and to support organizations like the Boys & Girls Club to address critical community needs. 

It’s personal: 

As a pre-teen volunteering at shelters, I met a boy my age who, despite enduring neglect and abuse in foster care, dreamed of playing in the NFL. After aging out of the system, he faced homelessness and substance abuse and took his own life. This loss deeply impacted me, reinforcing how vital love, stability, and support are for vulnerable populations. Later, while building homes for underserved families, I witnessed how safe spaces restore dignity and hope. These experiences fuel my passion for mental health advocacy and supporting underserved communities today. 

How do you measure the impact of your philanthropic efforts? 

Measuring impact at the Florida Mental Health Coalition (FMHC) combines metrics like individuals served and recidivism reduction with personal stories of transformation. For example, trauma-informed care helped a police officer process a child’s drowning, preventing long-term emotional harm. Similarly, consistent therapy broke a young man’s cycle of incarceration, enabling him to thrive and contribute to his community. Success is found in every life healed, cycle broken, and opportunity created through our work.

Sharon Gustafson-Florescue 

Owner & CEO, Sharon Enterprises LLC 

On becoming a philanthropist: 

I have been involved in numerous charities since 1970 when I first moved to South Florida. Both my father and my late husband, Barry Florescue, passed away far too early at ages 70 and 73, one from leukemia and the other from diabetes, kidney cancer and a rare blood disorder. While I contribute to many different charities, this was what inspired me to become more involved in supporting charities focused on cancer on a more substantial basis.  

Hence, the Foundation: 
My husband was a strong believer in education and started the Florescue Family Foundation, of which I am president. At the Foundation, we donate to many charities that foster educational opportunities for children as well as charities searching for cures for cancers. I presently sit on the board of the Royal Dames of Cancer Research, which supports cancer research at Nova Southeastern University in hopes of finding a cure. I’m proud to say we are a million-dollar charity this year.  

And in her spare time: 
I actively support Junior Achievement, co-founded the Circle of Wise Women, and was honored as their “WOW” Woman in 2022. The Foundation backs events like Uncorked, Glam-A-Thon, and causes such as Boys & Girls Clubs, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, and Habitat for Humanity, driven by a passion for improving lives through education, health, and housing. Whether it’s finding a cure for a devastating disease, offering a child an opportunity for a better education, or building a home for a less fortunate family with Habitat for Humanity, it seems like I’ve done it all! 

Jennifer Starkey 

Senior Vice President/Regional Vice President , TD Bank 

On becoming a philanthropist: 

At a young age, I witnessed the kindness of strangers. My mother, a young single mom with two children and another on the way, faced tough times. She worked as a bank teller and received clothing, food and support from coworkers, customers, and the community. She also volunteered with the junior women’s club and raised money to help others. Growing up surrounded by such acts of philanthropy, I knew I wanted to follow this path of giving. As soon as I started working, almost 40 years ago, I participated in our employee giving campaign, giving to United Way. After having our family, I also saw the importance of not only giving of treasure but also of time and talent. I try to volunteer or serve on a board or committee with each organization for which I have a passion in addition to the monetary contribution. 

But it extends beyond money…: 

Real support includes the sharing of time, talent, and treasure. And throughout my life, there were times when I could give more talent and time than treasure. All are vital to a not-for-profit’s success. When I served on the board of the National Association of Women Business Owners, I had the pleasure of going to Washington, DC, to speak to congressional representatives and senators about the needs of women-owned businesses which included access to capital, technology improvements, and tax and reporting relief. Additionally, it was a pleasure to speak to the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to suggest additional ways to get the word out on the programming and funding opportunities for business owners offered by the SBA. 

Words of wisdom to aspiring givers: 

I always say if you are going to give your time and money, it should be to an organization that is doing work you care about. My daughter Samantha is just starting her career after completing her advanced degrees in public health, but she wanted to start on her philanthropic journey. She loves animals, so she applied and was accepted to become a volunteer at the Miami-Dade Humane Society. I am so proud of her for continuing the family tradition of giving back. 

Giuliana Hirshson 

Vice President, PNC Investments
On being a philanthropist: 

I support several causes, including the Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Slow Burn Theatres and Beaux Arts Fort Lauderdale. In the case of Slow Burn Theatres, the impact they make in the community extends beyond the stage by providing valuable employment opportunities for local actors, designers and artists, fostering creative growth in South Florida. Through outreach programs such as senior workshops with $10 show tickets, sensory-friendly performances for neurodivergent audiences, and special pricing for students, Slow Burn ensures the arts are accessible to all, making live theater an inclusive and enriching experience for the entire community. 

Giving time as well as money: 
Royal Dames of Cancer Research is a nonprofit which is all volunteers.?Knowing that the volunteers’ hard work is helping to raise funds brings me the satisfaction of knowing that we are giving back to society and, hopefully soon, to the world. It was founded by a group of women who believed the cure for cancer could only be found through research and began to support the Rumbaugh-Goodwin Institute, now located at NSU. RGI’s patented therapeutics are showing great promise in treating many types of cancer and most recently, Glioblastoma. We continue the founder’s legacy by having fundraising events throughout the year.

The art of the matter: 
At Beaux Arts, we all volunteer to encourage an understanding and appreciation of the arts. Beaux Arts supports Museum on the Move, an innovative new education program that brings 6,000+ Broward County sixth graders to NSU Art Museum Fort for an interactive tour and learning experience. Beaux Arts also hosts an annual Spring Honoree Luncheon to help garner support for future art education initiatives at NSU Art Museum. We support the museum by contributing to its ongoing operations and?enhancing its educational programming and outreach. Through our formal fundraisers and informal activities, we form friendships and have fun while pursuing our goals. 

Danielle Gaudreau 

Designer, The Pretty Nomad
On becoming a philanthropist: 

Fashion has always been my way of empowering and connecting with others, but it never felt right to focus only on myself. Time, to me, is far more valuable than money, and I dedicate as much of it as I can to causes that truly matter. My focus is on fostering self-worth, providing opportunities, and supporting education—helping others realize their potential and creating meaningful change in the world. I’ve been actively involved in philanthropy since I was a teenager, driven by the belief that true success comes from giving back.  

What it’s all about: 

A challenge I’ve seen in the areas I support is that there’s never enough. “Will shelters ever be a thing of the past, or will there always be homeless dogs?” “Will cancer ever be a thing of the past?” “When will all children finally have equal opportunities, regardless of their background?” These questions weigh heavily because the need is constant and often overwhelming. That’s why I keep pushing to do everything I can to make even the smallest difference. 

Walking the walk: 
Beyond financial contributions, I organize rescue efforts, host events, mentor others, and use my platforms to raise awareness. It’s about what you do when no one is watching, the connections you build and the relentless commitment to making even the smallest difference in bettering the world. 

Words of inspiration: 
Long-term, I hope to create a ripple effect—a movement where individuals are empowered to uplift others and advocate for the causes they believe in. I want to inspire people to take that first step, because the first step is always the hardest. But once you start, you’ll realize?this?is what it’s all about—showing up, making a difference, and knowing that even the smallest actions can create lasting change.  

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Proceeds will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s crucial programs and services at its six Clubs and sites combined including its educational after-school programs, tutoring and homework assistance, STEM, recreation, dance, arts and crafts, mentoring and summer and athletic programs. These programs help children realize their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.   

Registration will start at 10 a.m., along with a driving range for players who wish to practice their swing. Lunch service and a complimentary open bar will begin at 11 a.m. The scramble-style tournament will commence with a shotgun start at noon. After the tournament at 6 p.m., players will enjoy an awards ceremony and dinner, featuring a live raffle inside Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club’s banquet hall. Raffle prizes include high-end items and exceptional luxury experiences such as golf aficionado items, restaurant and vacation packages and more.  

All golfers will receive a complimentary sponsor-branded swag bag with a sponsor-branded polo, umbrella, golf balls and other takeaways. Parking, green fees, cart and all meals and beverages are all included. Guests are asked to adhere to the country club casual dress code or golf attire. 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade recognizes its 58^th Annual Golf Classic Golf Committee Chair Anthony Lopez and Special Events Chair Olga Guilarte as well as committee members Clint Gulley, Chris Merlo, Alex Quevedo, Fred Rebozo, Ed Soto, Taylor Walker  and Liana De Mena. The 2025 Title Sponsor is the Carmen Rebozo Foundation.  

When:
Monday, March 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 

Where:
Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club
13610 Deering Bay Dr. 
Coral Gables, FL 33158 

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities, ranging from $500 to $30,000, are available.  To purchase sponsorships, please visit https://bgcmia.org/event/58th-annual-golf-classic-2025/. 

For more information about sponsorship or underwriting opportunities, or to reserve a foursome, please contact Rhia Hunter at (305) 446-9910 ext. 108, or email rhunter@bgcmia.org.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been serving youth in the community since 1946. What once was a single building and site for boys has grown to six Clubs and sites combined serving thousands of boys and girls year-round, providing programs in the areas of character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, cultural arts and sports, fitness and recreation. Club staffing, initiatives, and programs are designed to inspire and enable area youth and provide them with the resources to succeed and share in the American Dream. For more information, please call 305.446.9910 or visit www.bgcmia.org, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube. 

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Over 200 guests attended the inaugural event, including many community members living with multiple sclerosis. In addition to the substantial funds raised, the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation garnered significant recognition for its vital work in the community over the past 38 years. Julie Guy, the morning host of 101.5 Lite FM, served as the Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening.

“We are thrilled with the outpouring of support for this remarkable event, which not only highlights the importance of adaptive fashion but also brings our community together to support a cause that affects so many,” said Traci Allyn Shur, Director of Philanthropy. “The funds raised will help us continue to
provide essential services to those living with MS, from medical care and equipment to emotional support and education.”

For more information on MS Focus on Fashion 2025, contact Traci Allyn Shur at 786-213-0003 or visit www.msfocus.org.

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This year’s event saw nearly 250 golfers and supporters come together to raise an impressive $500,000, bringing the total amount generated over the event’s 31 years to more than $8.5 million. These funds play a crucial role in assisting pediatric patients and their families throughout South Florida.

 “Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital attracts patients from throughout Florida and families should remain close to children during treatment, as Cindy and I did when our son was a baby,” says Jeff Conine, a former Miami Marlins player. “We don’t want parents to have travel or financial burdens during what are already some of the most stressful times imaginable.”

Presented by Custom Rod & Reel, the golf classic also attracted numerous celebrity athletes who participated in every foursome. Notable attendees included Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez, Livan Hernandez, Preston Wilson, Anibal Sanchez, Cornelius Bennett, Dennis Martinez, Gaby Sanchez, Cliff Floyd, and Rick Cerone, among many others. The continued success of this event highlights the generous support of the community in ensuring families have access to necessary resources during challenging times.

To learn more about the hospital’s nonprofit foundation, visit here.

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The announcement featured heartfelt remarks from SOS Board Chair Ivan Velez-Leon and SOS Chief Development Officer Dawn Seay, who emphasized the critical need for a safe, inclusive playground and shared their excitement for its anticipated completion in 2025. Representing Weston Jewelers, Danni Dikes expressed the company’s deep commitment to the community and their pride in supporting the campaign. The day wrapped up with Alec and the Ingold Family Foundation spreading holiday cheer through a festive toy giveaway for the children at SOS.

Since its founding in 1993, SOS Children’s Villages Florida has provided a safe and nurturing home for children removed from their families and placed in foster care in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Over the past 30 years, SOS has supported the growth and development of more than 1,200 foster children, helping them become thriving, successful members of the community. To learn more about SOS Children’s Villages Florida, visit sosflorida.com.

Photo caption: Alec and Alexa Ingold, Tracey Dikes, Danni Dikes, Jesse Dikes, and Ed Dikes.

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Guests at Santa’s Workshop can experience an exciting lineup planned for you! Enjoy our signature drinks, participate in a live auction and visit the petting zoo. Kids can play in the bounce house, have a special Santa reading session and enjoy more fun activities.

Visit here to RSVP and donate to this wonderful cause.

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Feeding South Florida is witnessing an unprecedented surge in its efforts to provide nutritious meals to over 1.2 million individuals in the region. This increase is largely driven by factors such as inflation, disruptions in the supply chain, rising fuel costs and escalating housing expenses. Veterans who dedicate their lives to serving the U.S., unfortunately, face challenges related to food insecurity alongside active military members and their families. According to Feeding America, one in nine working-age veterans experiences food insecurity, and approximately 1.2 million low-income veterans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for support.

To RSVP, please visit www.Feedingsouthflorida.org/vets. Space is limited. Veterans must RSVP by Nov. 9. 

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“I am excited for the Gifts in Gold campaign and how the Ingold Family Foundation will make a difference in the lives of kids in the foster and adoption communities,” says Ingold. “It’s a cause close to my heart.” 

SOS Children’s Villages Florida is constructing a new playground because its old one had become unsafe for children. Playgrounds should be secure environments where children can enjoy themselves and build friendships. The new playground will cater to children of all ages and abilities.

SOS Children’s Villages in Florida provides nurturing homes for children and young people who lack proper parental care, currently accommodating up to 72 foster children ranging from newborns to 18 years old. They prioritize keeping biological siblings together and offer the NEXT STEPS program for young adults who have aged out of foster care, including individual life coaches, affordable housing support, employment assistance, financial management, and education to help them lead successful lives. Ingold is dedicated to supporting children in foster care and the adoption community due to his personal experience of being adopted at birth and understanding the significance of foster and adoptive parents in shaping successful lives for children in the adoption community.

Weston Jewelers, situated at the Weston Town Center and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, caught wind of Alec’s fundraising efforts for the SOS playground and eagerly joined forces to support the cause. Ed and Tracey Dikes, the proprietors of Weston Jewelers, were deeply moved by Ingold’s dedication to helping children in the foster care system and the adoption community, prompting them to lend their support.

For more information on the Gifts of Gold campaign or to donate $30, please visit https://GiftsInGold.givesmart.com.

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The Miles for Smiles event will support Broward Children’s Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving infants, children, and young adults with special needs since 1971. The proceeds will aid in funding crucial programs and medical, developmental, and therapeutic services tailored to meet the specific needs of developmentally disabled and medically fragile infants, children, young adults, and their families.

Participants can sign up for the event individually or as part of a team and engage in online fundraising before race day. Check-in for the Miles for Smiles event will open at 8 a.m. on race day, with the 5K starting at 9 a.m. Following the race, there will be an awards ceremony and a raffle.

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“The numbers are staggering. Breast cancer has impacted the lives of so many people, including our families and friends,” says John Alfano, president of Doris Italian Market & Bakery. “As a small business owner, it’s very important to my family and me to give back to our community. We thank our customers for supporting this worthy cause each year while enjoying one of our most popular cookies.”

Making Strides organizes non-competitive fundraising walks ranging from three to five miles to support research, treatment, and other initiatives. The organization offers a range of resources and a supportive community, such as a 24/7 helpline, one-on-one cancer patient support services, and video chats tailored for breast cancer survivors, metastatic breast cancer thrivers, caregivers and families.

The American Cancer Society states that breast cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer in women, following skin cancer. This year, they estimate that over 310,000 women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Additionally, the organization reports that more than four million breast cancer survivors are living in the U.S., and over 150,000 breast cancer patients are living with metastatic disease.

Doris Italian Market & Bakery has locations in Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Boca Raton, and North Palm Beach. For more information, call 954-572-5269 or email customerservice@dorismarket.com. Visit dorismarket.com or follow it on Facebook at facebook.com/DorisItalianMarket.

Photo courtesy of Doris Italian Market & Bakery

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