Kaufman Rossin in the Community: Brianna’s HOPE Fund

Melanie Hernandez of Kaufman Rossin talks about her involvement with a non-profit organization.

Which organization are you involved in and what is its objective?

Brianna’s HOPE (Healing Opportunities through Purposeful Expressions) Fund is a charitable program benefiting children coping with serious illnesses in a restricted hospital setting. It was created in honor of 8-year-old Brianna Medina, who passed away this May after a five-month battle with acute cardiac failure and a restricted hospitalization where she received round-the-clock mechanical support for her failing heart in hopes of a life-saving heart transplant.

Brianna Medina, the inspiration for Brianna’s HOPE Fund.

The Fund is a part of the University of Florida Health Shands Arts in Medicine Program (AIM) and supports three initiatives, each of which began with Brianna. The first, How I Rock encourages expression through music. How I Roll involves visual and tactile expressions therapy. The third, Hope from the Heart uses written or oral narrative for expression.

AIM is committed to transforming the hospital experience by using the creative arts and art therapies to engage and support patients coping with illness and hospitalization. Brianna’s HOPE Fund supports this commitment and continues Brianna’s legacy by giving other children suffering from life-threatening illnesses and hospitalization “wings of art.”

What is your role with the organization?

This is a new organization, and it is my hope to remain involved with future fundraisers and events geared toward raising money for this cause.

Why did you decide to get involved in this organization?

Brianna was the niece of my good friend, Audrey. I followed her story and witnessed Brianna inspire the Miami community to hold various fundraisers for her heart transplant, including a special Zumba class, a basketball game and a trunk show. She was an incredibly strong and brave little girl. I admire the Medina family for continuing to help children regain a sense of their healthy selves, even while coping with life-threatening illnesses.

How has Kaufman Rossin contributed to your success with this organization?

Since joining Kaufman Rossin, I have witnessed many professionals get involved in meaningful charities in the community through the monthly jeans day fundraisers. Hosting a jeans day is a fun way to give back, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help the Medina family in any way possible.

What is your advice for others who are thinking about getting involved in the community?

Pick a charity or organization with a cause that inspires you. No contribution is too small. Even a $5 jeans day donation is a great place to start.