MIAMI, FL – April 16, 2026 – Over 800 community leaders, advocates, and dignitaries filled Jungle Island’s Bloom Ballroom on April 16, 2026, for The Children's Trust's 20th Annual Champions for Children Awards Ceremony. The sold-out event, presented by TD Bank, celebrates exceptional individuals and programs making a meaningful and lasting impact in Miami-Dade County.

This signature celebration brought together everyone from longtime advocates to rising youth leaders, all united in their commitment to advancing child welfare. With heartfelt acceptance speeches and special recognitions, it was an inspiring afternoon.

“For 20 years, The Children’s Trust has honored dozens of individuals and programs whose exemplary leadership and high-quality work have helped children and families across Miami-Dade thrive,” said The Children’s Trust president & CEO James R. Haj. “Our community continues to succeed and innovate because of leaders like today’s Champions.”

The event’s highest honor, the David Lawrence Jr. Champion for Children Award, was presented to Gepsie Metellus, Co-founder, Sant La, for her lifelong commitment to her community and the success of every child.

The ceremony also celebrated other outstanding leaders making an impact across Miami-Dade County. Honorable Alexis Calatayud, Florida State Senator, was recognized for the Excellence in Advocacy Award for her tireless work in policy to support early learning and other key issues.

Twala Kelly, a social worker with the University of Miami, School Health Initiative, received the Excellence in Direct Service Award for her hands-on commitment to families navigating complex challenges, making sure students’ needs are addressed in a holistic and personalized manner.

Andrea Cabrera-Elguezabal, a high school student at Young Women's Preparatory Academy, was honored with the Excellence in Youth Leadership Award for her commitment to children, youth, and families.

Families First Program at UHealth Mailman Center for Child Development, Little SEALS Program at UM Linda Ray Intervention Center and The Children's Trust Parent Club - FIU Center for Children and Families were honored with the Program of the Year Award.

The event's success was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Presenting sponsor TD Bank, Platinum sponsor City National Bank and Gold Sponsors Barry University, Community Health of South Florida, Senator Rene Garcia, University of Miami, Webauthor, WELS, WOW Marketing, and Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald. Silver Sponsors include Agencia Central, Armstrong Creative Consulting, Baptist Health, Corcoran Partners, Cigna Healthcare, Early Learning Corps, EdFed, Florida International University Center for Children and Families, Greenberg Traurig, Health Foundation of South Florida, Key Biscayne Community Foundation, Miami Dolphins Foundation, The Miami Foundation, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Q-Q Research, Reach Out & Read Florida, Ramax Miami, Commissioner Raquel Regalado, Uber and United Way Miami.

About The Children’s Trust
The Children’s Trust is a dedicated source of revenue, supported by ad valorem property taxes, that funds hundreds of programs across thousands of sites in Miami-Dade to directly serve children and their families. Local voters established The Trust in 2002, and 86% of voters permanently reauthorized it in 2008 to ensure it continues to positively shape Miami-Dade's future. For more information, visit www.TheChildrensTrust.org.

Click Here for still images and videos from this year’s event. 

Click Here for video biographies of each honoree.

Media Contact:
Lindsay Francois, Media Manager
Lindsay@TheChildrensTrust.org