Starting 2026 Strong at the Amerant Bank 5K

United Way Miami kicked off the year by bringing the community together on January 11 for the 2026 Amerant Bank 5K in the heart of Coral Gables. Runners, walkers, families and wellness enthusiasts filled the city’s scenic streets for a morning of fitness, fun and philanthropy.

The family-friendly event welcomed participants of all ages and reflected United Way Miami’s commitment to building a stronger community, with proceeds supporting our vital work.

Thank you to Amerant Bank, our participants, volunteers and supporters for making this event a success. Together, we showed that when our community laces up with purpose, we move Miami forward, one step at a time.

Young Leaders BYOB Remix Blends Brunch, Art and Impact

United Way Miami’s 9th Annual Young Leaders Build Your Own Brunch (BYOB) Remix brought together emerging leaders for a dynamic morning of connection, creativity and community.

A standout highlight was a live art experience led by iconic Miami graffiti artist, Atomik. Attendees collaborated on original artwork and entered a raffle to win one of four canvases created during the event. Live and silent auctions added excitement while supporting United Way Miami’s mission.

The 2025 BYOB Remix celebrated leadership and philanthropy through local art and culture, reinforcing the power of young professionals to drive meaningful change. Thank you to our sponsors, partners and attendees for helping make this event a success.

Meet Yanet Obarrio Sanchez, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications

United Way Miami welcomed Yanet Obarrio Sanchez in December as our Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications. She brings more than 20 years of experience translating mission-driven work into compelling stories that inspire action.

Yanet will lead and integrate United Way Miami’s marketing, communications, public relations, creative and brand efforts, serving as a key connector across departments to elevate visibility, strengthen reputation and deepen engagement with donors, partners and the community.

Most recently, Yanet served as Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Memorial Healthcare System, where she led enterprise-wide media relations, executive communications, crisis response, social media and content strategy. Her work advising C-suite leaders helped significantly enhance organizational impact and reputation.

Yanet is also a familiar and trusted leader at United Way Miami. She spent more than a decade as part of our Marketing & Communications team, where she played a pivotal role in advancing our education, financial stability and health initiatives.

A collaborative leader and gifted storyteller, Yanet’s leadership will help amplify our work across Miami-Dade County.

Annual Holiday Drive Brings Joy to Local Families

United Way Miami spread joy this season through its Annual Holiday Drive, bringing hope and holiday cheer to families and children across Miami-Dade County during a time of increased financial hardship.

On Saturday, December 13, more than 50 dedicated volunteers gathered at the Ansin Building to sort and prepare 1,500 donated toys for children and families most in need. The effort reflected the heart of United Way Miami: bringing people together to care for one another and strengthen our community.

Toys were distributed to families served by the United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education, Center for Financial Stability, MISSION UNITED, Early Head Start–Child Care Partnership and several partner agencies throughout the county.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers and partners, the Holiday Drive helped brighten the season and reminded us that even small acts of kindness can create lasting joy.

Celebrating The Best Day for Dave

United Way Miami President and CEO Symeria Hudson joined community leaders, partners and friends on December 3 for The Best Day for Dave, a celebration honoring the life-long contributions of David Lawrence, Jr.

Dave’s influence spans generations. A champion for early childhood education, he holds a special place in the heart of United Way Miami. He was one of the key leaders who helped bring the Center for Excellence in Early Education to life, in addition to serving as Chair of our early education efforts and working closely with donors and partners to help make our vision a reality.

His leadership is defined by purpose, humility and a deep belief in lifting others. The Best Day For Dave was more than a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of a legacy that continues to guide and inspire our work.

Helping Our Community Prep for Tax Season

As part of its commitment to financial stability, United Way Miami is helping families across Miami-Dade County prepare for the tax season with trusted support through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Miami Tax Pros.

Through VITA, IRS-certified volunteers provide basic tax preparation and electronic filing for qualified individuals and families, available both in person and virtually, at no cost. These services help residents file accurately, confidently and on time, while keeping more of their hard-earned income. Visit the IRS website for the most updated information on eligibility.

United Way Miami proudly provides these resources through its Center for Financial Stability.

Providing Healthy Starts with the HealthConnect in Our Schools Initiative

Every child deserves to be healthy, supported and ready to learn, and in Miami-Dade County, that vision is becoming reality through strong community partnerships.

United Way Miami joined The Children’s Trust, Miami-Dade County Public Schools, the Florida Department of Health and community healthcare providers for a press conference to announce the expansion of the HealthConnect in Our Schools initiative. This brings critical healthcare services directly to students on school campuses across the district. Students now have access to nursing care, mental health services, tele-health and mobile health units, removing barriers that often prevent families from accessing care.

By bringing care to students, partners are advancing health equity and strengthening student success, together building a healthier future for every child.

Join Us At Our Upcoming Events

VeritageMiami is Celebrating 30 Years of Wine, Food and Community Impact
For three decades, VeritageMiami has been a signature Miami tradition, bringing together exceptional cuisine, world-class wines, and a shared commitment to community impact. Known as a feast for the senses, the event series showcases celebrity chefs, top local restaurants, prestigious wineries, and unforgettable culinary experiences.

This beloved series turns 30 this year, as we celebrate creativity and connection through food and wine, all in support of United Way Miami’s mission. VeritageMiami offers something for everyone, with experiences designed to intrigue, inspire and delight.

This Spring, VeritageMiami continues with two highly anticipated events:

Wine and Food Experience – Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Guests will enjoy a global tasting journey as wineries from around the world pour their finest selections alongside signature bites from local eateries. The evening invites guests to mingle, discover new favorites and celebrate Miami’s vibrant culinary scene.

Interactive Dinner – Friday, April 17, 2026
This immersive experience places celebrity chefs and premier wineries center stage. Guests will participate in live, hands-on master classes, cooking alongside culinary experts while enjoying thoughtfully paired wines. The evening will feature the signature VeritageMiami auction, showcasing exclusive experiences and rare finds.

Volunteer:
1/17 - MLK Day of Service