Honoring the Grant Family and Austin Hollo: 2024 Tocqueville Society Grand Reception
More than 200 guests came together in the spirit of giving to celebrate United Way Miami’s most dedicated supporters at the annual Tocqueville Society Grand Reception on February 8.
Named for French historian Alexis de Tocqueville, who recognized, celebrated and immortalized the true spirit of volunteerism, United Way Miami’s Tocqueville Society is comprised of an influential group of dynamic leaders who are devoted to building a stronger Miami.
Gracious hosts and Tocqueville Society members Jayne and Leonard Abess opened their spectacular home for the event, which was generously sponsored by Van Cleef & Arpels and City National Bank.
The evening allowed us to honor some true standouts of this society, with awards presented by United Way Tocqueville Award Chairs Jayne Abess and Andy Ansin. In 1991, Andy’s late father, Ed Ansin, alongside Jayne, launched the Miami Tocqueville Society and the Tocqueville Society Award for Outstanding Philanthropy. Their criteria for selection were those who had shown the highest levels of philanthropy in Miami with the greatest dedication to the betterment of our community, and whose good works embodied United Way Miami’s mission, vision and values. It was also hoped the philanthropic community would reflect the diversity of our community at large.
The Grant family received this year’s Tocqueville Award for Outstanding Philanthropy. They have supported United Way Miami for more than 30 years and deeply care about Miami, its residents and its future. Their leadership and service to United Way Miami, as well as many other organizations and initiatives in our region, has had a positive and lasting effect on the community. As they continue to inspire others, the Grants – Gerald, Jr., Jennifer, Jasmin and Gerald III – embody the true spirit of generational giving and the profound impact it can have on the world around us. To learn more about Grant family, watch their story here courtesy of our partner WSVN 7 News.
In celebration of 100 years of service in the community, United Way Miami proudly introduced a new award this year. The Next-Gen Philanthropist Award was given to Austin Hollo a young man who is reshaping our region through his robust community involvement, proving the power of generational philanthropy. He is a visionary leader and compassionate philanthropist who lends his time and talent to several of South Florida’s most crucial organizations. Austin is an inspiration for young professionals who believe in the power of collective change and charitable giving. To learn more about Austin, watch his story here courtesy of our partner WSVN 7 News.
View a gallery highlighting this special evening below.
The event was a great success as we recognized these remarkable individuals while enjoying music, food, drink and great company amid fantastic views of Biscayne Bay.
We wholeheartedly thank all of our Tocqueville Society members. Their support is essential to propelling United Way Miami forward and sustaining us as a pillar of hope in this community.
View the local media coverage from WSVN 7 News here and The Miami Times here.
