Known for its vibrant energy and glamorous lifestyle, Miami has embraced a remarkable blend of fashion and compassion through local charity, Angels for Humanity.
Words MichelleWallace | IG @ my.michelle.w
Creative Director Dr. Cybil Bonhomme | IG @cybil.007
Photographer Dmitry Zhitov | IG @dmitryzhitov_photo
Wardrobe Stylist Ruthia Fuller | IG @ruthiafuller
Talent Judith Joseph, Dr. Julio Hernández, Tatiana Arteaga, Batoul Darwiche, Dr. Rudolph Moise
Location Paramount Bay Miami Condos | IG @paramountbaycondo
MUA Richard Ching| IG @chingstyle
Charity Angels for Humanity | IG @angelsforhumanityorg
With a noble mission of providing dental and healthcare services to impoverished communities from Miami to Haiti, this nonprofit organization has continued to show our city that charity is always in style. At the heart of their philanthropic efforts is their signature fundraising event, Catwalk for Charity—a glamorous affair that brings together Miami’s fashion elite, philanthropists, and influential individuals to support Angels for Humanity’s life-changing cause. The runway becomes a stage for compassion as models strut their stuff and designers show off their looks, all while raising funds and awareness for their organization’s mission, which includes an elementary school currently being built in Haiti. This month, we sat down with the team that’s transforming lives, one smile at a time,
to learn more about the halo effect the AFH organization is having.
Judith Joseph
@angelsforhumanityorg
Tell us who you are and a little about what you do: My name is Judith Joseph, and I am the founder and COO of Angels for Humanity. Since graduating from Adelphi University, I have worked in the hospitality industry for almost three decades. Formerly, I worked as an executive at some of the country's most prestigious 5-star hotels. During my time on a task force team, I opened properties all over the world. For the past 15 years, I own a company called Le Chic Events Design and Production based in Boca Raton, Florida.
How did you become involved in Angels for Humanity? Seventeen years ago, I invited a few friends to help me make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children in Miami. My Joy of Giving program was the catalyst for starting Angels for Humanity. We invite about 600 children to a fun-filled day, including breakfast with Santa and a toy distribution each year. Our program was later expanded to include a back-to-school event. Several years later, we expanded our outreach to Haiti, where there was a greater need. Our focus in Haiti was on health, education and toy distribution.
As founder and COO, it is my responsibility to ensure we remain true to our mission statement and continue to enhance the lives of children in need."
What do you want Miami to know about your nonprofit organization? Through education, health, and other programs, Angels for Humanity strives to improve the lives of children every day.
Which of Angels for Humanity’s achievements are you most proud of? Seeing the difference we are making in the community and our relentless efforts to continue to be the change we wish to see.
Miami is a "glam"city. What is the most “glam” thing Angels for Humanity does or participates in? Each year, Angels for Humanity hosts two fabulous events that are sold out every year—Catwalk for Charity and Tea for a Cause.
What’s next for Angels for Humanity? The Angels for Humanity organization is currently purchasing a property in Haiti to build a kindergarten and elementary school. Soon, some of the poorest children in the Western Hemisphere will attend school for the first time. Our dream is about to come true!
Is there anything readers can do to support your initiative? Become a volunteer and support our fundraising efforts!
Is there anything else you'd like to add? Our gratitude goes out to the community for its support—thank you!
Dr. Julio Hernandez
@smilesbydrjulio
Tell us who you are and a little about what you do: I am Dr. Julio Hernandez, a proud Miamian with a deep-rooted connection to this vibrant city. With over 25 years of expertise, I am a seasoned dentist dedicated to providing exceptional care. Located in Edgewater, my private practice, Biscayne Dental & Facial Aesthetics, offers a comprehensive range of dental services.
How did you become involved in Angels for Humanity? In 2017, I became involved with Angels for Humanity, a humanitarian organization dedicated to making a positive impact. As a member, I led the inaugural dental mission trip to Haiti, an experience that fueled my passion for helping others.
What is your role in Angels for Humanity? I currently hold the position of Vice President and had the privilege of leading our recent dental and medical mission trip to El Salvador, which took place in June. These meaningful experiences allow me to contribute to communities in need while furthering my commitment to philanthropy and compassionate healthcare.
What is one thing you want Miami to know about your nonprofit organization? One important thing I want Miami to know is that we are deeply committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Our mission goes beyond borders, as we strive to bring healthcare and humanitarian aid to underserved communities around the world. Through our initiatives, such as dental and medical mission trips, we provide essential healthcare services to those who lack access to proper medical care. Whether it's setting up temporary clinics, providing dental treatments, or delivering much-needed supplies, we are committed to alleviating suffering and restoring hope in the lives of those we serve.
I take immense pride in the tangible impact we have achieved through all of Angels for Humanity's programs, particularly in the profound support we have provided to countless children over the years. Despite limited resources, we have managed to make a significant difference in their lives, instilling hope and paving the way for a brighter future. Witnessing the transformation and the sheer number of children we have served fills my heart with joy and reaffirms our organization's ability to create meaningful change."
Miami is a very “glam” city. What is the most “glam” thing that Angels for Humanity does or
participates in? In the realm of glamor, one of our standout events is our renowned fundraiser, Catwalk for Charity. This exquisite affair, now in its 9th edition, seamlessly blends fashion and philanthropy in a truly glamorous manner. Drawing the crème de la crème of Miami's social scene, this event showcases top designers unveiling their latest collections alongside captivating performances by world-class entertainers. Held at prestigious hotels throughout the city, Catwalk for Charity has established itself as a highlight on Miami's social calendar—and I am thrilled to announce that this year's event will feature the exclusive runway designs of the esteemed fashion house, Balmain.
What’s next for Angels for Humanity? The future holds exciting prospects as we continue to expand our reach and make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Alongside our ongoing initiatives, we are embarking on an ambitious project to build a school in Haiti, providing much-needed education to children who currently lack access to basic schooling. Together, we can build a school that not only provides education but also serves as a beacon of hope, fostering a generation of empowered individuals who will shape a better future for themselves and their communities.
Is there anything that readers can do right now to support your initiative? There are several ways individuals can support Angels for Humanity's initiatives and make a meaningful difference
Donations: Contributions of any amount can have a significant impact on our ability to provide essential healthcare services and support to those in need. Whether it's a one-time donation or a recurring contribution, every dollar counts and helps us extend our reach.
Volunteer: We welcome dedicated individuals who are passionate about our mission to join our team of volunteers. Whether it's participating in mission trips, assisting with fundraising events, or providing expertise in various areas, volunteers play a vital role in our efforts.
Spread the Word: Help raise awareness about our organization and its initiatives. Share our mission and stories on social media platforms, engage with our content, and encourage others to get involved.
Corporate Partnerships: We value collaborations with businesses and organizations that align with our mission. By forming strategic partnerships, we can combine efforts and resources to maximize our impact and reach.
Fundraising Events: Attend or organize fundraising events in your community to support our cause. These events not only generate financial support but also help raise awareness about our organization and its mission.
In-Kind Donations: Consider donating supplies, equipment, or services that align with our healthcare and humanitarian initiatives. In-kind donations can greatly enhance our ability to deliver vital services to those in need.
Sponsorship Opportunities: Explore opportunities to become a sponsor for our events or initiatives. Sponsors play a crucial role in providing the necessary resources and support to help us carry out our mission effectively. By supporting Angels for Humanity in any of these ways, you become an essential part of our mission to bring healthcare, education, and hope to underserved communities around the world. Together, we can create a lasting impact and make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Tatiana Arteaga Teo
@tatiana.teo.photography
How did you become involved in Angels for Humanity? I attended Catwalk for Charity in 2020 and was so impressed with all the medical and dental work they have done for kids that I immediately wanted to work with them. Soon after, I helped with their huge Joy of Giving event where we distributed toys to over 1,000 underprivileged kids in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood. We then started planning a medical and dental mission trip to Guatemala. We gave medical and dental care to over 400 kids who literally live in the garbage dumps of Guatemala City—most of these kids have never seen doctors or dentists.
What is your role within Angels for Humanity? I help with everything including marketing, securing sponsors, co-chairing the first ever Tea for a Cause, and our biggest event, Catwalk for Charity. Our organization is different than most in that we do all the work and are very hands-on. When we have events, we are all there before sunset (including my kids), helping with every detail, including decorating, setting up plates, folding napkins and anything else
that’s needed!
What is one thing you want Miami to know about your nonprofit organization? Angels for Humanity is very special in many ways: we provide medical and dental care for underprivileged children here in Miami and also in the poorest parts of the world including Haiti, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, The Bahamas and soon El Salvador. We also have a huge Back to School
medical fair in Miami and support schools with educational needs in Haiti, Guatemala and Dominican
Republic. Most importantly, 100% of our donations go to the kids no one is salaried—we are purely
volunteer-based.
Which of Angels for Humanity’s achievements are you most proud of? Our overall goal is to start a school in an area of Haiti where there are no schools in sight. We are close to our goal of breaking ground and starting to build. Kids in every part of the world deserve an education and it’s the only way the cycle of poverty is broken. Miami is a very “glam” city.
What is the most “glam” thing that Angels for Humanity does or participates in?
We have two super glam events that we put on every year. Catwalk for Charity is another level—we
have over 500 people, fabulous designers, musicians and celebrities in attendance. Tea for a Cause, held at the Biltmore Hotel, hosts 250 of Miami’s finest dressed up in hats and glamorous outfits for high tea and wonderful time.
What’s next for Angels for Humanity?
In October we have Catwalk for Charity which will have a mega-designer presenting!
Is there anything that readers can do right now to support your initiative? We are always looking for more doctors, dentists, sponsors and serious volunteers to help with our events and missions. It’s great to have people see for themselves how hands-on we are and all the good work we do. Once you volunteer and see the kids we help, you’ll fall in love with the mission!
Is there anything else you'd like to add? I have worked with and been a part of many organizations here in Miami and I can say with 100% confidence that this one is very different and is making a huge impact here locally and around the world.
Dr. Rudolph Moise
@rudolphmoise
Tell us who you are and a little about what you do: I am Dr. Rudolph Moise, a board-certified aesthetic physician, practicing in North Miami. Originally from Haiti, I attended medical school in Chicago. I subsequently moved to South Florida to care for the impoverished immigrant population under the National Health Service Corps. I then went into private practice and at the same time matriculated at the University of Miami where I earned a master’s degree in business and health management as well as a law degree. I also served in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years as a flight surgeon and then retired as a colonel.
How did you become involved in Angels for Humanity? I became involved with AFH 17 years ago. At that time, the organization was known as "Catwalk for Charity", because the signature event of the year was always a fashion show to raise funds for education and healthcare for underprivileged children—which is a passion of mine.
What is your role within Angels for Humanity? I am on the executive board of the organization, where I serve as the second Vice President and Fundraising Chair.
What is one thing you want Miami to know about your nonprofit organization? AFH fundraisers are where fashion meets philanthropy. Our mission is to inspire, empower and support impoverished children around the world by providing them access to quality education and healthcare.
Which of Angels for Humanity’s achievements are you most proud of?
I am most proud of our medical and dental missions. The organization recruits qualified medical teams and offers short term assignments for volunteer doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals as well as non-medical volunteers to conduct medical clinics in areas where medical care is limited or difficult to obtain.
The Catwalk for Charity fundraiser is the organization’s most glamorous event. It is a spectacular, joy-filled and haute fashion event with celebrity guests. It is usually preceded a few months earlier by another classical event, Tea for a Cause, where ladies wear their fancy hats, pearls and gloves while gentlemen wear a suit with a bow tie."
What’s next for Angels for Humanity? Next is this year's Back to School Health and Wellness Fair where our volunteers will help hundreds of children receive backpacks filled with goods, wellness checks and dental care. Additionally, the children enjoy arts and crafts, hair braiding, manicures and eating delicious food.
Is there anything that readers can do right now to support your initiative? The main reason why AFH was created by the founders, Judith and Patrick Joseph, was to build a school in Haiti. Every dollar raised through the various fundraising events is dedicated to that purpose. We would like readers to support this great initiative so the organization can provide a quality education to the impoverished children in Haiti. After successful completion of this project, we hope to be able to do the same in other countries.
Is there anything else you'd like to add? I would like to encourage readers to join in as volunteers. The fundraising activities are a lot of fun and the networking opportunities are endless!
Batoul Darwiche
@drbatoula
Tell us who you are and a little about what you do: I was born and raised in Lebanon and came to the US at age 17. My biggest trophies are my three beautiful children. Between family, earning my PharmD, opening a family restaurant business and charity, I can’t tell you how blessed I feel.
How did you become involved in Angels for Humanity? I started as a sponsor and shortly after became close to Judith, whose passion and vision gave me the drive to become more involved. Once you see the difference you can make, pushing forward becomes the only option!
What is your role within Angels for Humanity? I’m the Creative Director of this organization. My responsibilities include creating visions and implementing them in a way that drives the revenue needed to help more underserved children.
What is one thing you want Miami to know about your nonprofit organization? I would like it to be known that this organization is 100% volunteer-based and every single dollar goes towards the children.
Which of Angels for Humanity’s achievements are you most proud of? I’m most proud of the difference the organization has made with its medical missions. The missions have contributed dental and healthcare to over thousands of children, both locally in Miami and abroad. Also,
it brings them smiles and hope and that pushes us to keep going. Miami is a very “glam” city.
What’s next for Angels for Humanity? I can proudly say that after 15 years with this charity, our dream is becoming a reality with a school to be built for children in Haiti. It will host underprivileged kids from pre-K through high school and it is currently in the works!
We can’t do what we do without our supporters. I urge everyone to check us out on Instagram @angelsforhumanityorg, and when your heart melts with everything we are able to do for the children, try to participate or donate in order to greaten the impact we have."
Is there anything else you'd like to add? This charity provides the intangible for these children—the strength and the love they need to keep moving forward is part of what we strive to give them. When you learn about what we do, the actions say it all. t’s not just a charity—it’s hope.
Angels for Humanity
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