Make-A-Wish Southern Florida kicks off charity season with 31st annual ball

The 31st Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball took place this weekend, launching South Florida s premier charity season. Celebrities and philanthropists came together Saturday night to show their support for the community and its children in need. I ll get emotional because the children is what it s all about, and you never get tired of saving another child or a putting a smile on a child s face, so it will never get old, said Ball Co-Chair Shareef Malnik as he stood next to his wife, actress Gabrielle Anwar. This year s event featured a Crystal Castle theme, designed to transport attendees into a frozen fantasy inspired by the Gilded Age. Couldn t be more excited; we look forward to this event every day of the year, said InterContinental Miami General Manager Glenn Sampert. Last year, the event raised $3 million, funding 300 wishes for children in South Florida. South Florida is such a philanthropic community; it s a part of the culture of where we l