HELPING CHILDREN

Congratulations to Bethany Claunch, 16, for recently organizing an outreach event for 17 children at the PATCHES Center in Homestead. More than $500 was raised to benefit this worthwhile charity that provides care for children and their families challenged by complex medical needs.

Bethany is a senior at the School for Advanced Studies-Homestead that meets on the campus of Miami-Dade College. She lives in Keys Gate and plans to attend college next year in the northeast.

“Visiting PATCHES was a life-changing experience for me,” Bethany said. “I’ve always been drawn to helping kids, but seeing the children in need at PATCHES really touched my heart. I plan to major in nursing, so spending time with the PATCHES kids confirmed my career choice.”

The pediatric extended care facility is licensed to host up to 75 children with sub-acute and chronic conditions. The mission of PATCHES is to “provide nursing care to medically complex children and peace of mind to their parents.” To find out how you can help check www.patchesppec.org.

BRANDEIS LUNCHEON

Bring a little harmony into your life with barbershop music at the upcoming “Spring Showcase and Membership Lunch” hosted by the Brandeis National Committee South Miami-Dade Chapter. The event starts with coffee and conversation at 10:15 a.m., Jan. 24 at Temple Judea on U.S. 1 and Granada Boulevard.

The program will feature members of the Miami Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, an international organization that promotes a cappella harmony in schools and communities. Along with the established Miami singers, Director of Music Gene Cokeroft will include a young barbershop group that is part of the Chapter’s “Youth In Harmony Workshops” program.

The luncheon will be catered by Michael’s and is open to the public. Cost is $22 per person. Hurry and contact Jackie Leone at 305-665-4832 or Barbara Bulbin at 305-274-0206. Reservations may be placed until Jan. 21.

GUEST SPEAKER

Jeanne Jacobs, president of the Miami Dade College Homestead Campus will share her experiences at 12 p.m. on Feb. 4 at the Homestead Community Center, 1601 N. Krome Ave. as part of the Bea Peskoe Lunchtime Lecture series. The event is free.

Jacobs became president of the Homestead Campus in 2005. She brought over 33 years of administrative leadership and teaching to the job. Her current community involvement includes serving on the Board of Directors of Homestead Hospital and trustee membership on the Executive Council of the Homestead/Florida City Chamber of Commerce.

No reservations are required for the lecture. A simple lunch will be available for $10 beginning at 11:30 a.m. Call 305-230-9185 before 2 p.m., Feb. 1 to make a reservation for the meal.