in Memory of Judy Kramer at the Iconic Joe’s Stone Crab
Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade celebrated its 14th Annual “Claws for Kids” in memory of Judy Kramer at Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach on May 6. South Florida’s top community leaders, philanthropists and influencers were among the 300 guests who enjoyed Joe’s world-famous stone crabs and signature items without the wait.
The event raised over $275,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s crucial programs and services at its six Clubs and sites combined. The funds will support its educational after-school programs, tutoring, homework assistance, mentoring, STEM, dance, arts and crafts as well as summer camps and athletic programs. These programs help children realize their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.
Belkys Nerey, Channel 7 News Anchor and journalist, returned as master of ceremonies, alongside mother-daughter duo Co-chairs, Lisa Mendelson and Lindsey Mendelson Pearson, and Special Events Chair, Olga Guilarte. The Claws for Kids host committee included Lily Pardo, Rae Stein and Jackie Gonzalez.
“Claws for Kids” is held in memory of Judy Kramer, a longtime Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Board member, who not only was a part of the Claws team that created the event, but she also chaired it since its inception until her passing in February 2021.
At this year’s event, Thoma Bravo was honored with the 2025 “From the Heart Award” in recognition of its steadfast commitment and compassionate leadership in support of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. Thoma Bravo’s efforts have profoundly influenced the lives of countless youth served by the Club.
Thoma Bravo is a leading private equity firm with a history and passion for investing in and growing software and technology businesses. Since opening its Miami office in 2021, Orlando Bravo, founder and managing partner, and Chip Virnig, partner of the Miami office, along with the Thoma Bravo Miami team, have been committed to giving back to the community they serve. Thoma Bravo has been a dedicated supporter of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade through its involvement in the Clubs’ annual fundraisers, including the Christmas Tree Lot, the annual “Wild About Kids” Gala and “Claws for Kids.”
“We’re thrilled to have returned to Joe’s Stone Crab to celebrate our 14th Annual ‘Claws for Kids,’ supporting great futures for Miami-Dade youth,” said Alex Rodriguez-Roig, president of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. “This luncheon is a highlight for our supporters each year. The event’s success is made possible thanks to the unwavering support of our longtime partner Joe’s Stone Crab, our dedicated Special Events Chair, Olga Guilarte, returning Co-Chairs, Lisa Mendelson and Lindsey Mendelson Pearson, as well as our committed board members and generous donors.”
“We were proud to honor the Thoma Bravo team with our 2025 ‘From the Heart’ Award in recognition of its generous support and enduring dedication to empowering Miami-Dade’s youth for generations to come,” he continued.
The 2025 Presenting Sponsor was the Carmen Rebozo Foundation. The Premier Claw Sponsors were
Abigail Pollak and Lisa and Victor Mendelson, and family. The Jumbo Claw Sponsors were Anthony R. Abraham Foundation, FPL, Murgado Automotive Group, Ocean Bank and Thoma Bravo. The Large Claw Sponsors were Baptist Health, Bermont Gold Wealth Advisory of Raymond James, Alina and Tom Bezold, Charter America Holdings, First American Bank, Jackie and Nelson Gonzalez, Julie Grimes, Margaret and Clint Gulley, Kim and Eric Mendelson, Ryder System, Inc., South Florida PBS, Rae and Barry Stein, The Miller Saiontz Family, Truist Investment Services, Inc. and WSVN 7. Entertainment and reception were underwritten by The Bernhardt Family. Other contributors included Mark & Greta Walker Foundation and Colin Cowie, and Danny Peuscovic. The wines and prosecco were provided by Domaine Bousquet, and the printed programs were provided by Printhouse USA.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade
Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been serving youth in the community since 1946. What once was a single building and site for boys has grown to six Clubs and sites combined serving thousands of boys and girls year-round, providing programs in the areas of character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, cultural arts and sports, fitness and recreation. Club staffing, initiatives, and programs are designed to inspire and enable area youth and provide them with the resources to succeed and share in the American Dream. For more information, please call 305.446.9910 or visit www.bgcmia.org, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
About Joe’s Stone Crab
Joe’s Stone Crab, which celebrated its 107th anniversary in 2020, was established when Joseph Weiss came to Miami for a change of climate to help his asthma. Weiss opened a lunch stand, originally offering fish and fries, on Miami Beach, which eventually evolved into today’s establishment. It is located at 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit www.joesstonecrab.com.
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