Dear Friend:

As summer unfolds, we’re filled with gratitude reflecting on the last three months of incredible generosity, heartwarming moments, and unwavering community support that continue to make our mission possible. Our commitment to keeping families close to their seriously ill children has never been stronger. 

This summer, our focus shifts to three exciting initiatives:

• Planning the Groundbreaking Ceremony for our new House 'Hope has a New Home", a milestone that will expand our ability to serve even more families in need. More information coming soon, in the meantime, learn more by visiting "Hope has a New Home" website.

• Expand the new group of women 'Red Shoe Society' right now we have 20 women who have joined and are energized and engaged. This group brings women into the heart of our mission.

• Coordinating Family Summer Outings to bring smiles and fun to the children and families staying with us, creating happy memories amid challenging times.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or looking to get involved for the first time, there are so many ways to help. Every gesture of kindness helps these families navigate their medical journeys with strength and hope. We are humbled and inspired by the love and support we receive every day from individuals, organizations, and our cherished community. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and safer summer.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Soraya Rivera-Moya

Executive Director

Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida

As told by his mom,we are honored to share the story of Boril—a brave young boy who received a multi-visceral transplant at Jackson Memorial Hospital. His family traveled from Bulgaria to seek life-saving care and found more than just treatment—they found a second home at the Ronald McDonald House.

"Our son’s name is Boril—he is a true warrior. Life presented him with a tremendous challenge: he needed a multi-visceral transplant, a highly complex and rare procedure. The only place where he could receive this life-saving treatment was Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. For our family, that meant leaving our home and coming here, full of hope for a new beginning for our child. We first came to Miami in 2022 for Boril’s transplant evaluation. We returned in January 2023 for treatment and stayed until December 2024. For nearly two years, the Ronald McDonald House was our home. This House was so much more than a place to stay. It was our refuge during the most uncertain and difficult time of our lives. It gave us peace, warmth, and a deep sense of belonging when everything else felt far away. Without a doubt—the people made all the difference. The staff, the volunteers, and the other families created a caring, compassionate environment that lifted us up on the hardest days. Small acts of kindness gave us strength and reminded us that we weren’t alone. Being just steps away from the hospital meant we could be by Boril’s side at any moment—during emergencies, surgeries, or simply when he needed a hug. We didn’t have to worry about transportation, housing, or meals—we could focus entirely on him. That made all the difference. Yes—we made lifelong friends with other families going through similar journeys. Together, we shared not only our fears but also our hopes, our small victories, and moments of joy that we will always carry in our hearts."

 - Gergana Yankova

Pictured above from left to right: Ray Lewis, Former NFL Player, Soraya Rivera-Moya, Executive Director, Alex Rodriguez, RMHC Board President & McDonald's Owner Operator.

On Monday, May 19, 2025, we had the honor of welcoming NFL legend Ray Lewis to Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. He toured the House alongside our Executive Director, Soraya Rivera-Moya and Board President, Alex Rodriguez, learning more about our mission and the families we serve. We’re grateful for his time, interest, and support in helping us keep families close.

Extraordinary World with Jeff Corwin Celebrating Canine Companions at RMHC South Florida

On Saturday, May 3, 2025, Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida was honored to be featured on Extraordinary World with Jeff Corwin on CBS WKND. The segment spotlighted our beloved canine therapy program and a heartwarming visit from some very special guests—both two- and four-legged!

We were thrilled to welcome celebrated athlete Desmond Howard, CBS Miami’s Trish Christakis, and representatives from the Brady Hunter Foundation. Their presence brought smiles, comfort, and unforgettable moments to the families we serve.

Therapy dogs continue to play a vital role in offering emotional support during medical challenges, and this visit beautifully showcased the healing power of compassion and community.

Pictured above: Rob Gabner poses with his grandchildren wearing Ronald McDonald Socks.

For five years, 71-year-old Rob Gabner of Pembroke Pines turned his daily walks into a mission of kindness—collecting spare change along his seven-mile route. His efforts added up to $1,107, which he donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida to support families with sick children. Inspired by his own childhood health challenges, Rob’s gift is a powerful reminder that even small acts can create meaningful impact. Thank you, Rob, for walking the walk—and keeping families close.

Pictured above from left to right: Soraya Rivera-Moya, Executive Director of RMHC of South Florida, Shannon Lewis, Store Manager of Dillard's and RMHC of South Florida House Guests.

We’re so grateful to Dillard’s for their generous support through the Southern Living Christmas Cookbook promotion. Their recent donation of $2,913.08 helps us continue offering comfort and care to families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Thank you for helping us keep families close during life’s toughest moments.

Pictured above from left to right, Top Row: Soraya Rivera-Moya, Executive Director of RMHC of South Florida, Ana Lopez, State Street Realty, Traci D. Miller, SVP Corporate Communications, Miller Construction, Monica Cataluña-Shand, Broker/Owner KoRes Realty, George Pino, State Street Realty, Ceci Pino, State Street Realty, Nicole Munoz, Development Manager, RMHC of South Florida. Second Row: RMHC House Guests, The Berrios Family, and the Gonzalez Family

On June 5, 2025, members of the Commercial Industrial Association of South Florida (CIASF) visited Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida to present a generous $5,000 donation. The gift was raised during CIASF’s 1st Annual Silver Bells Social, where participating companies came together for a festive happy hour in support of local causes. We’re incredibly thankful for their partnership and commitment to keeping families close during times of medical crisis.

Shamrock Shake Success

From February 10 through March 23 we celebrated the return of the Shamrock Shake Promotion for RMHC! Through this beloved seasonal treat, the South Florida community came together in a big way—raising $24,598.00 to support families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Every green sip represented hope, healing, and togetherness for the children and families we serve. We’re so grateful to McDonald’s and our incredible supporters who made this promotion such a sweet success. Thank you for helping us keep families close when they need it most.

Pictured: A collage of photos featuring the Event Venue Hacienda Los Robles

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, we tipped our hats to our incredible volunteers with a Western-themed celebration at Hacienda Robles in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month. Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch by Chef Mamita, sweet treats from Naranja Piña Gelato, snapshots at the Sara Stage photobooth, Videography by Two Minds Branding and lively line dancing led by Eloise Rodriguez. We were proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of our award recipients: Upchurch Management, Top Golf, Carmen Anido and Friends, Linda Shainberg, Ayleen Gonzalez, Ivelisse Brignoni, and Gabriella Ruiz. Thank you for your dedication and heart, you’re the heroes behind our mission!

Pictured above from left to right: Doug Pennington , Elizabeth Fitzgibbons - Nurse Manager Hematology/Oncology, Soraya Rivera-Moya- Executive Director RMHC of South Florida, Scott Ehrlich, Rixys Alfonso, Gina Pisano - Assistant Manager of Child Life and Patient Transport

On Wednesday, May 28, Soraya Rivera-Moya, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida proudly attended the ribbon-cutting celebration for the new Sunrise on Wheels Trunk at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. This joyful event marked the expansion of a signature program by the David Posnack JCC, which delivers toys, games, and smiles to children undergoing oncology treatment. The program was made possible by a generous $10,000 RMHC of South Florida grant, part of our ongoing commitment to supporting impactful local initiatives. We’re honored to help bring moments of happiness to children during challenging times.

On Friday, May 2nd, 2025 we were thrilled to host the 32nd Annual Twelve Good Men Luncheon—a sold-out celebration that welcomed 450 guests and raised an incredible $210,000 to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. The event honored twelve remarkable men for their service, leadership, and commitment to our community. We extend heartfelt congratulations to this year’s honorees for inspiring us all with their dedication. Thank you to everyone who joined us—we can’t wait to see you next year! Save the date Friday May 1st, 2026

From now until November 2025, every time you fuel up at participating Sunshine Gasoline stations, you’ll be making a difference for families in need! Look for RMHC-branded pumps at 50 stations and 100 pumps across South Florida—each one proudly displaying RMHC artwork on the hose and nozzle. Pump at a designated RMHC pump and 1 cent per gallon will be donated to RMHC South Florida, helping provide a “home away from home” for families with critically ill children.

You can make an impact by finding a participating station using our interactive map and snaping a photo while you fuel up, share it with #FuelHopeForFamilies, and tag @rmhcsfl Every gallon fuels hope—join us and make a difference today!

Meals from the Heart

Serve Up Smiles This Summer!

Looking for a fun and meaningful way to give back? Join our Meals from the Heart program and help nourish families staying at the Ronald McDonald House! We especially welcome school-aged volunteers looking to earn community service hours—bring your friends or your family and cook up some love together.

Red Shoe Society

Step In. Stand Out.

Make an Impact.

Join the Red Shoe Society, a network of young professionals making a difference for families at the Ronald McDonald House. Connect, lead, volunteer, and have fun—all while supporting a cause close to home. Your red shoes are waiting!

Grab your clubs and join us for the Swing for Hope Charity Golf Tournament—a day of golf, giving, and good times to support families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference on and off the green!

Save the Date: October 10th, 2025 and join us for an unforgettable evening hosted by the Red Shoe Society Women’s Group—featuring wine, fries, and fun, all in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. More details coming soon!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 8th, 2025 and join us at the William H. Kerdyk Sr. Biltmore Tennis Center for our Pickleball Tournament: Paddles for a Purpose! It's a day of fun, friendly competition, and meaningful impact for families at Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Sponsorship opportunities and event details coming soon—stay tuned!

Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida

1145 N.W. 14th Terrace

Miami, FL 33136

(305) 324-5683

info@rmhcsouthflorida.org