Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Hosted the 11th Annual “Claws for Kids” Fundraiser in Memory of Judy Kramer at the Iconic Joe’s Stone Crab

Photography by Kyle McLaughlin on May 3rd, 2022 in Lifestyle

Miami Beach, FL – May 3, 2022 – More than 300 supporters enjoyed lunch at Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach for Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s 11^th Annual “Claws for Kids” in memory of Judy Kramer on May 3. Guests enjoyed delicious stone crabs and other signature menu items without the wait while listening to the sounds of well-known Frank Sinatra impersonator Jeff Grainger. Supporters had the opportunity to win raffle prizes such as fine wines and liquors, restaurant and hotel gift cards and more. The event raised over $175,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s many programs including its after school programs, homework assistance, computer training, social skills, dance, arts & crafts, professional mentoring, and summer and athletic programs.

Olga Guilarte and Lisa Mendelson graciously co-chaired this year’s event. “Claws for Kids” is held in memory of Judy Kramer, a longtime Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Board member, who helped create the event and chaired it since its inception until her passing in February 2021. This year’s event honored James Haj, president and CEO of The Children’s Trust, with the 2022 “From the Heart” award. Through his unwavering dedication and caring stewardship to Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, Haj has made a positive impact on the lives of the Clubs’ youth members. Haj has 25 years of experience in teaching and administration at Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and “Claws for Kids” coincided with National Teacher’s Appreciation Day on May 3.

“We are incredibly humbled by the overwhelming support from all those who joined us for the 11^th Annual ‘Claws for Kids’ lunch and awards ceremony to commemorate the life of Judy Kramer and honor Jim Haj with our 2022 ‘From the Heart’ award,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade President, Alex Rodriguez-Roig. “We are grateful to see many of our supporters back in person while enjoying Joe’s famous stone crabs.” The Presenting Sponsor was the Carmen Rebozo Foundation, and the Jumbo Sponsor was Ocean Bank. Large Claw sponsors included Anthony Abraham Foundation, Bermont Gold Wealth Advisory of Raymond James, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Performance Team Sports, Publix Charities, Rae and Barry Stein, and Allison and Andy Stuart.

For more information, please visit www.bgcmia.org.