Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) of South Florida held its 32nd annual charity luncheon.

More than 450 guests recently gathered at the elegant Loews Coral Gables Hotel to honor an exceptional group of community leaders during the 32nd Annual 12 Good Men Luncheon, hosted by Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) of South Florida. The event raised more than $210,000 to support families with critically ill children, reaffirming the power of local philanthropy and the strength of a community united by compassion.

This iconic luncheon recognized 12 men whose professional careers and commitment to the well-being of others have made them fundamental pillars of their respective communities. This year’s honorees include figures from the business, medical, educational, and artistic fields, such as Al Maulini, Dr. Rudolph Moise, Jason Jackson, and Victor A. Díaz, among others. They all share a common spirit: a genuine desire to serve, to reach out, and to make a tangible difference.

Soraya Rivera-Moya and Danny Jelaca

One of the most moving moments of the gathering was the special tribute to the late Mark A. Trowbridge, president of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, whose legacy was celebrated with touching videos and messages of affection, including one from Mayor Vince Lago, who recalled the profound impact his work had on the city of Coral Gables

The event also featured a powerful first-person account, that of the Ysabel family, originally from the Dominican Republic, who are currently staying at the Ronald McDonald House. With tears and hope in their voices, they shared their story of faith and strength as they care for their premature twins, Lia and Alan. Their account was a vivid reminder of the organization’s true heart: keeping families together when they need it most.

Journalist and presenter Calvin Hughes, who has been the master of ceremonies for eight consecutive years, was responsible for bringing dynamism and excitement to the luncheon. With his usual charisma, he guided attendees through the event’s most significant moments, celebrating the honorees as they paraded to applause.

Marta Bloom and Krystyna Laukien

Milton Rene Ruiz and Linda Levy

Ron Magill and Ana Veiga

Silvia Trinidad and Lourdes Tudela

Sean Prospect and Julie Todaro

One of the most anticipated announcements of the day was the upcoming construction of a new Ronald McDonald House, revealed by the chairman of the board, Alex Rodriguez. The new building, which will be constructed on the Jackson Memorial Hospital campus, represents a $33 million investment and is scheduled to open in 2026. This modern space will double the current capacity and accommodate more than 420 families annually, eliminating the waiting list.

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities is as clear as it is vital: to keep families close to the medical care their children need by providing them with a warm and welcoming place to stay, daily meals, transportation, and emotional support, all at no cost. Its comprehensive, family-centered approach has changed the lives of thousands of people in times of extreme vulnerability.

The event was generously supported by sponsors such as the Eda & Cliff Viner Community Scholars Foundation , the Jose Milton Foundation , Coldwell Banker Realty , and media partners such as Social Miami , Coral Gables Magazine , Miami Community News , The Miami Guide , and this publishing house, S Revista .

At the end of the luncheon, what remained was much more than just the sum raised. What remained was the echo of shared stories, the recognition of inspiring journeys, and, above all, the confirmation that when a community unites with a common purpose, it can transform lives, one family at a time.