Stephanie, Jules, and Eddie Trump of Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach hosted the 27th Annual “I Have a Dream” Foundation Miami Gala on Thursday, November 3, 2022, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. The evening raised $1 million, benefitting the “I Have a Dream” Foundation Miami Dreamers – the class of 2032 who are now in the 3rd grade. The Trump family founded the Miami-Dade chapter of the Foundation in 1995.
Stephanie Trump Photo via @acqualinaresort and @worldredeye
After hosting the “I Have a Dream” Gala online for two consecutive years, 580 South Florida philanthropists joined 40 Dreamers for a magical and uplifting evening. There was a silent auction with more than 40 exciting prizes and a live auction by auctioneer Jay Rokeach, including a 9-night trip to Italy with stops in Florence, Rome, Sorrento, and Sicily and a magnificent 12-night South African Memorable Experience, including two private game parks. Talented Miami artist Cameron Wheeler captivated the audience with her soulful voice during the cocktail hour, and Turnberry Resort’s culinary team prepared a four-course menu for all to enjoy.
Brian Bilzin, Marsha Bilzin, Stephanie Trump, & Jules Trump Photo via @acqualinaresort and @worldredeye
The evening was filled with incredible surprises that began with founder Stephanie Trump's inspiring welcome address. She gave special recognition to the “I Have a Dream" Foundation's longtime Executive Director, Jonas Severe, and Project Director, Nicole Taylor, and said, "they are the glue that keeps our program together; without them, the program couldn't succeed.” A stunning performance was followed by Miami Dreamer Rendith Sanon, who is enrolled in college. Next, the class of 2032 performed the emotional song I'm Brave, I'm Strong, I'm Loved, I'm Smart, and I'm Unique with many in the audience in tears and singing along with them. After, guests enjoyed a quality stage production with an enthralling mix of music and lively instruments.
Alexandra Wensley & Jules Trump Photo via @acqualinaresort and @worldredeye
All funds raised at the Gala benefitted the “I Have a Dream” Foundation Miami Dreamers, children in low-income communities, helping to grant them an opportunity to pursue higher education, capitalize on their talents and fulfill their leadership potential by allowing them to get the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. The Foundation also guarantees the children’s academic tuition at a Florida state university for a four-year degree or at an accredited trade school.
Christie Galeano DeMott, Alexandra Wensley, Deborah Yager Fleming , Jenny Starr Perez, & Angela Caraway Carlton Photo via @acqualinaresort and @worldredeye
For more information, call (305) 937 7834 or visit dreammiami.org.