His House Children’s Home (HHCH) hosted its 12th Annual “Imagine” Charity Gala on Saturday, October 3 at The JW Marriott Marquis Miami, sponsored by Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and Leyva Capital.
Florida State Senator Rene Garcia, Salvadorian Consul in Miami Ricardo Salvador Martinez, baseball player Jeff Conine and many South Florida dignitaries were guests at the annual event to raise much needed awareness and support for South Florida’s growing number of foster kids.
Chaired by Jay and Jessica Leyva and hosted by Felipe Viel, a popular TV personality, the event was attended by over 450 guests.
Known for their spectacular Silent Auction items, His House Children’s Home exceeded guests’ expectations this year. In a bid to raise much needed support for children in the foster care system, guests were able to bid for highly sought after vacation getaways, autographed sports memorabilia, exquisite jewelry and various once in a lifetime experiences. Jim Gall, the professional champion auctioneer was on hand to auction off dream vacations such as an Azamara Club Cruises’ 14-19 day voyage to anywhere in the world within 66 countries, and luxurious vacation homes in East Hampton and Tuscany during the live auction.
Agnes, a former resident at HHCH gave a very moving account of how the organization impacted her and helped shape her into the woman she has become today. A victim of an abusive relationship after losing her parents at a young age, Agnes became a single mother at 14 and HHCH was the only organization willing to accommodate both she and her baby.
Now, Agnes who is enrolled at Florida International University, pursuing a degree in Sociology and minor in Journalism, actively mentors other young people, especially kids in the foster care system to aim high, believe in themselves and imagine themselves overcoming their present circumstances and strive for excellence in their endeavors.
“It was a great pleasure to attend the His House annual gala. I want to thank everyone for your ongoing support to ensure that every child has a safe and nurturing home. Your commitment to serve the children in our community is truly inspirational,” said Senator Garcia.
For more information on His House Children’s Home, the private, faith-based, non-profit organization dedicated to restoring joy to the lives of children from newborn to 18 years of age, visit www.hhch.org.