IS CELEBRATING ITS 50’s Anniversary.

Branches is a local nonprofit that provides life-changing opportunities for hardworking families and their children to break the cycle of poverty. This year, Branches is thrilled to be celebrating its 50th Anniversary thanks to the support of so many volunteers, donors, and partners.

Branches provides two-generational, longterm, holistic services to children and families at three sites across Miami-Dade County –Branches Lakeview (North Miami), Branches South Miami, and Branches Florida City.

Branches’ three signature programs include:

The Grow Program, which prepares elementary students for lifelong success through enrichment of their minds, bodies and hearts. Students develop a love for learning through after-school academic and enrichment activities.

The Climb Program serves middle and high school students, supporting them to succeed in school and life with a focus on college readiness and career preparation.

It includes intensive SAT/ACT test prep, FAFSA guidance, academic support, character-building opportunities, and a four-year scholarship for post-secondary education.

The Achieve Programs serve children and families on their path to financial wellness and include one on one financial coaching, financial education for children, microbusiness development, transportation solutions, VITA free tax preparation, Community IDs, and emergency services.

You can join Branches in celebrating 50 years of serving children and families at the 2023 Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala on Saturday, April 29th, 2023, at 6:30 PM at the JW Marriot Marquis Miami. It will be a fun and philanthropic night under neon lights with games, dinner, live music, dancing, an online auction, and more. Branches youth are ready to challenge anyone to a game of Mario Kart!

Branches is grateful for the generous support of Trish & Dan Bell, who are serving as this year’s Philanthropic Chairs, as well as Karla and Scott Richey, who are serving as this year’s incredible Gala Chairs.

The event will also honor Ana Veiga Milton and Cecil Milton of The Jose Milton Foundation with the Trish & Dan Bell Community Empowerment Award for their dedicated support of the South Florida community.

The Gala is Branches’ largest fundraiser for the year and supports the services the organization provides to over 15,000 individuals, including hundreds of students who receive daily after-school enrichment and academic support, plus thousands of adults who receive financial wellness services.

Tickets and sponsorships for the 2023 Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala are available at branchesfl.org/2023gala.

To learn more about Branches and how to get involved, visit branchesfl.org or email info@branchesfl.org.

By Nick Bevilacqua