Miami Celebrates the Power of Philanthropy at the 25th Anniversary of ‘Donor Next Door’

A Tribute to Generosity and Leadership

The evening began with an elegant cocktail reception where Miami’s most dedicated

changemakers connected over shared commitments to social impact. The main event—an

inspiring awards ceremony—brought together business leaders, philanthropists, nonprofit

organizations, and donors to recognize those driving meaningful change.

Welcoming guests, Fernanda Jorgensen, Executive Director of PhilanthropyMiami, set the tone

for the evening with a powerful message:

"To the incredible nonprofits and honorees in the room—tonight is about you. You are the

heartbeat of this community—demonstrating resilience, generosity, and an unwavering

commitment to making Miami a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. At

PhilanthropyMiami, we believe that when we come together, we create greater impact.”

Jorgensen underscored PhilanthropyMiami’s commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector

through capacity-building programs, leadership development, and signature events like Donor

Next Door and the annual IGNITE! Conference. She called upon donors, businesses, and

community leaders to stand with PhilanthropyMiami in ensuring that nonprofits have the

resources to grow, lead, and create lasting change.

Following her remarks, Madeline Pumariega, President of MDC, took the stage to emphasize the

crucial intersection of education and philanthropy in shaping Miami’s future. A special video

message from Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava reinforced the importance of

civic leadership and collaboration in strengthening Miami’s social impact sector.

Honoring Miami’s Changemakers

One of the most powerful moments of the evening was the presentation of the Hank Raattama

Community Champion Award, given this year to Patrick Morris, Director of Civic and

Philanthropic Partnerships for Miami-Dade County, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to

philanthropy and social impact. A heartfelt tribute showcased his remarkable efforts in

mobilizing resources, building partnerships, and advocating for underserved communities,

inspiring all in attendance.

The ceremony continued with the 2025 Donor Next Door Awards, where more than twenty

individuals and nonprofit organizations were honored for their contributions to Miami’s social

impact landscape. Each honoree’s story was brought to life through powerful impact statements,

demonstrating the real and lasting difference philanthropy makes in Miami.

A Call to Action: Strengthening Philanthropy’s Future

As the evening concluded, Jorgensen reminded attendees of the role each individual and

organization plays in shaping the future of Miami’s nonprofit ecosystem:

"I encourage each of you to consider your role in strengthening Miami’s nonprofit

sector—whether through funding, advocacy, mentorship, or amplifying the work of our local

organizations. We all have a part to play in shaping the future of Miami."

This year’s Donor Next Door event was made possible through the generous support of Miami

Dade College, Bank of America, the Miami Herald, Baptist Health South Florida, The Miami

Foundation, and Stearns Weaver Miller. Their commitment to philanthropy and social good fuels

our collective impact.

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A Call for New Sponsors & Partners

As PhilanthropyMiami looks ahead, the organization invites corporate partners, foundations, and

individual donors to join its mission to build a thriving, resilient, and inclusive nonprofit sector.

Opportunities for partnership, sponsorship, and philanthropic investment are available for those

looking to drive systemic change and make a lasting impact on Miami’s communities.

Join PhilanthropyMiami for IGNITE! 2025

The momentum continues at IGNITE! 2025, PhilanthropyMiami’s premier annual conference on

May 8, 2025. This dynamic gathering at Miami Dade College will bring together nonprofit

leaders, corporate partners, and changemakers to innovate, connect, and lead Miami’s

philanthropic future.

• Get Involved. Make an Impact.

To learn more about PhilantropyMiami, sponsorship opportunities, and upcoming events, visit

www.philanthropymiami.org

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