Category Archives: News and Events
Inspiring Giving. Celebrating Impact.
Philanthropy is strongest when it reflects the full diversity of a community—and that spirit was on display at Donor Next Door, a signature event presented by PhilanthropyMiami. Donor Next Door is Miami’s annual celebration of philanthropy, created to honor the individuals whose generosity makes nonprofit work possible. From steadfast volunteers to transformational donors, the… Read More »
A Brighter 2026: Progress Through Community
The past year reminded us of a difficult truth: disability rights in the United States remain fragile, contested, and—far too often—rolled back. At the same time, it reaffirmed something just as powerful. When communities come together, when we refuse to be silent, and when we insist on a world where everyone belongs, progress is… Read More »
Honoring Dr. King on Sistrunk Boulevard: Community, Culture, and Connection
This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, our Inclusion Specialists Van Gray and Herchella “Chel” Baynes joined families, neighbors, and community leaders along Sistrunk Boulevard for Fort Lauderdale’s annual MLK Day Parade—an event rooted in history, pride, and collective purpose. Sistrunk Boulevard is more than a parade route. It is a historic African American corridor… Read More »
National Hugging Day: Why Respecting Personal Space Matters for Everyone
Every year on January 21, people across the country recognize National Hugging Day—a day meant to celebrate affection, warmth, and human connection. While hugs can be meaningful and comforting for many, this day is also an important opportunity to acknowledge something just as vital: not everyone is comfortable with physical touch—and that deserves respect…. Read More »
Advancing High-Performing Board Service: From Good to Excellent
Strong boards are essential to strong nonprofit organizations—and investing in board development is an investment in the communities we serve. Recently, board members from the Advocacy Network on Disabilities participated in a pilot leadership training titled Advancing High-Performing Board Service: From Good to Excellent, a collaborative initiative designed to strengthen nonprofit performance across Miami-Dade… Read More »
Honoring Our CEO: Ire Diaz Recognized by PhilanthropyMiami and the Nonprofit Executive Alliance
We are deeply grateful to PhilanthropyMiami and the Nonprofit Executive Alliance (NEA) for honoring our CEO, Ire Diaz, with their Member Spotlight recognition. This spotlight is more than a personal accolade—it is a powerful affirmation of the Advocacy Network on Disabilities’ mission to build a community where everyone belongs. Being highlighted by the regional… Read More »
“Not a Burden, but an Honor”: A Mother’s Holiday Message of Gratitude
As the holiday season approaches, many families are busy decorating their homes, planning gatherings, and celebrating traditions. For Lourdes, a devoted mother of a young man with significant disabilities, this season is also a time to pause, reflect, and say thank you. Recently, Lourdes joined one of our team meetings to share, in her… Read More »
Building a World Where Everyone Belongs: From IDEIA 2004 to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025
Every year on December 3, the world recognizes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)—a global reminder that inclusion, accessibility, and equity are not aspirations but obligations. In 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights a theme that strikes at the heart of disability justice:Inclusive Health Financing for Health Equity. This theme resonates… Read More »
Our Give Miami Day 2025 Journey: A Celebration of Heart, Hustle, and Community
Give Miami Day 2025 has come to a close — and what a journey it has been. This year, the Advocacy Network on Disabilities didn’t just participate; we showed up with passion, purpose, and a united team determined to reach our goal for the families we serve. And thanks to the generosity of our… Read More »
