Your Source for Foundation News and Information | | | | |
Dear friends,
At Jackson Health Foundation, we often talk about the power of philanthropy. But its true impact is found in the moments it creates — a child finding joy during a difficult hospital stay, a patient receiving lifesaving care or a family finding hope when they need it most.
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Those moments are possible because of you.
Across Jackson Health System, your generosity continues to help advance exceptional care and create meaningful experiences for patients and families. We are proud to see that commitment reflected in the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center, which was ranked No. 1 among the state and No. 15 in the nation's best rehabilitation hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.
The transformation of emergency care at Jackson Memorial Hospital is also moving forward. With the first phase of the emergency room complete, upcoming phases will bring additional services and enhancements to further strengthen care for our community.
And as we look to the future, we're engaging a new generation of philanthropists through the Young Impact Collective, bringing together emerging leaders under 45 who are passionate about making a difference in Miami-Dade County.
There is much to look forward to, including the 27th Annual Guardian Angels Luncheon and Fashion Show on October 30 and the Holiday of Miracles Toy Drive and Boat Parade on December 5.
Thank you for believing in Jackson and for being part of a community that continues to make a difference for patients and families across South Florida.
Together, we are making miracles happen.
With gratitude,
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Flavia Llizo
Chief Executive Officer, Jackson Health Foundation
| | Welcoming David Zambrana
CEO of Jackson Health System | |
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At Jackson, some stories come full circle. That is certainly true for David Zambrana, who recently became Chief Executive Officer of Jackson Health System. More than 35 years ago, David began his career at Jackson Memorial Hospital as a nurse, caring for patients at the bedside. Today, he returns to that same mission in a new role, leading one of the nation's largest public health systems.
Before becoming CEO, David served as Jackson's President and Chief Operating Officer, working alongside Carlos A. Migoya to help guide the health system's remarkable growth and transformation.
David brings something uniquely valuable: a lifelong understanding of Jackson's people, patients and purpose. His journey reflects the values shared by so many of our donors — dedication, resilience and the belief that every member of our community deserves access to world-class health care.
Please join us in welcoming David as Jackson begins its next chapter. With the continued partnership of our donors and community, that future is filled with possibility.
| | A New Chapter in Maternal Care
The Karlie Kloss Center for Maternal Health
Opens at Jackson | |
On August 18, Jackson Memorial celebrated the opening of the Karlie Kloss Center for Maternal Health at The Women's Hospital, a milestone made possible by a $2.5 million gift from the Joshua Kushner and Karlie Kloss Foundation.
For Karlie and her family, the gift carries personal significance. All three of her children were born at Jackson, and the donation reflects her desire to give back to the team that cared for her family during those milestone moments.
To celebrate this expression of generosity, Karlie and her family joined us in opening the maternity emergency room, a modern space featuring a welcoming environment designed to enhance the experience of pregnant patients requiring emergency obstetrical care.
It features updated patient rooms, enhanced clinical spaces, and an improved clinical environment built to support timely, specialized care for patients experiencing pregnancy-related emergencies.
We're deeply grateful to Karlie, Joshua, and their family for their generosity and their investment in the future of maternal health across South Florida.
| | Building the Next Generation of Philanthropy
Young Impact Collective | | |
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Jackson Health Foundation's Young Impact Collective brings together emerging leaders under 45 who want to connect with their peers while creating meaningful change across Miami-Dade County.
Through networking, service and philanthropic opportunities, members are helping build a community of young professionals who understand that improving health care is something we all have a role in.
Whether you're looking to expand your network, give back or help shape the future of health care philanthropy, there's a place for you at our Young Impact Collective.
Discover how you can get involved.
Click here to learn more or contact Gradon Hadaway, senior director of development, at Gradon.Hadaway@jhsmiami.org or 305-585-GIVE.
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From Storytelling to Service
Veronica Puig Brings Kindness to Young
Readers and Holtz Children's Patients
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Teen author, songwriter, and founder of Veca's Hope Children Foundation, Veronica Puig shares a message of kindness, compassion, and resilience through her debut children's book, Treehouse Rescue.
Inspired by her experiences supporting children with pediatric cancer and their families, Treehouse Rescue follows a young boy named Mike as he welcomes a group of animals seeking shelter from an approaching storm. Through its themes of generosity, empathy, and putting others first, the story encourages young readers to recognize the impact even small acts of kindness can have.
Puig's commitment to uplifting children extends beyond the pages of her book. On Valentine's Day, she joined fellow Little Guardian Angel Cecilia Florin Veiga and their families in surprising pediatric patients at Holtz Children's Hospital with 100 teddy bears and colorful tote bags.
Through both her storytelling and community service, Puig continues to remind children and families that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a powerful difference.
| | Two Transplants. One Lifesaving Mission
at Miami Transplant Institute | | |
Emilio and Mauricio Barbosa Martinez both live with Alport syndrome—a genetic disease that can silently destroy kidney function over time. After Hurricane Maria brought their family from Puerto Rico to Miami, their care journey quickly became urgent, and ultimately life-saving.
Emilio was first. He needed immediate dialysis and a kidney transplant in 2018. A living donor made that second chance possible—and today, he’s thriving, with a college degree and a master’s program underway.
Years later, Mauricio followed the same path. Balancing school in Puerto Rico and treatment in Miami, he received his transplant in 2025 through the generosity of an organ donor family. He’s now continuing his education at Nova Southeastern University, closer to his care team and his future.
Across both journeys, the pediatric kidney transplant team at the Miami Transplant Institute provided steady, expert care—and a family never gave up hope.
Their story is a reminder of what’s possible when compassion, clinical excellence, and organ donation come together.
Help more patients get their second chance. Support kidney transplant care through Jackson Health Foundation.
Read the full story.
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This October, Jackson Health Foundation’s Guardian Angels will host the 27th Annual Guardian Angels Luncheon and Fashion Show, bringing together community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters for an inspiring afternoon benefiting Holtz Children’s Hospital.
Set at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, the event will feature a Saks Fifth Avenue fashion show, exciting raffle opportunities, and powerful stories that highlight the impact of philanthropy on the lives of families across South Florida. Save the date and join us as we celebrate compassion, community, and the extraordinary care provided at Holtz Children’s.
Purchase your tickets or reserve an entire table today.
| Kick off the holiday season with Jackson Health Foundation’s Holiday of Miracles Boat Parade, a festive waterfront celebration benefiting patients at Holtz Children’s Hospital. Beginning at sunset on Saturday, December 5, beautifully decorated boats will cruise through Biscayne Bay and neighboring communities, spreading holiday cheer while raising awareness for children receiving care across Jackson Health System. Community members can get involved by entering a boat, becoming a sponsor, attending a watch party along the parade route, or hosting their own gathering with friends and neighbors.
Help make the holidays even brighter by participating in our annual Holiday of Miracles Toy Drive. Donations of new, unwrapped toys will be collected through December 12 and distributed to children receiving care throughout Jackson Health System. Supporters can contribute by donating toys, making a financial gift, shopping our Amazon Wish List, or organizing a toy drive through their business, school, or community organization. Every gift helps bring comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy to children and families during the holiday season. | | CH 3178 – A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, 1-800-435-7352. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. | | | | |
