Guardian Angels: Fashion, philanthropy, and a decisive boost for children’s health in Miami
Each year, Miami’s philanthropic community dresses up for a cause that outlasts any trend: children’s health. In its 26th edition, the Guardians of the Children Luncheon and Fashion Show once again proved why it’s a must on the city’s social and charitable calendar, raising more than $700,000 in support of Holtz Children’s Hospital, a cornerstone of the Jackson Health system.
Hosted at the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach, the gathering blended the energy of a purpose-driven runway—curated by Saks Fifth Avenue and featuring designs by TOCCIN, a talent with roots in Miami and Jackson—with programming designed to inspire and mobilize. A chance drawing with prize packages valued at a minimum of $1,000 and a silent auction organized by Paradise a la Carte in partnership with Iberia Airlines—totaling more than $80,000—added tangible impact to the glamour. Yet the moment that lingered was a family’s heartfelt story, an intimate reminder of Holtz’s mission: to deliver world-class pediatric care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.
The Guardian Angels’ footprint is both measurable and moving. “For more than three decades, we have made pediatric fundraising our mission,” says Silvia Rios Fortun, president of this circle of donors. Their achievements range from acquiring advanced fetal surgery technology and renovating the pediatric hematology/oncology unit to remodeling the Little Miracles Maternity Suites, alongside investments in infrastructure and innovation that elevate the standard of care.
The cumulative total is striking: more than $44 million raised through cornerstone events to date. The latest edition drew nearly 600 attendees—community leaders and philanthropists—reinforcing a shared commitment to building a healthier future for Miami-Dade. “Thanks to Miami-Dade County leaders, taxpayers, and Jackson Health Foundation’s generous donors—especially our Guardian Angels—and partners making a lasting difference, we are ensuring that Holtz Children’s Hospital remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation for children of all ages,” underscores Flavia Llizo, CEO of the foundation.
Behind the success is steadfast leadership—Andria Ares Holtz, Nicole Holtz Spielman, Silvia Rios Fortun, Vivian Adrian, Angela Andrade, Mari Grimalt, Fana Holtz, Ines Lorenzo-Gomez, Deborah Robins, Marilyn Samlut, and Gloria Sesana—and a constellation of sponsors, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Florida National University, AvMed, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Perdomo Cigars, BNYWealth, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, The Miami Herald, El Nuevo Herald, Fontainebleau Miami Beach, among many others. Fashion with purpose, community in action: this is how Miami shows up when it’s about caring for its children.
