About Us

Together, Anything Is Possible

The Foundation supports the needs of patients and families as Nicklaus Children's Hospital continues its 70-year legacy of providing world-class pediatric care.

child life specialist and mother tending to a newborn baby
child life specialist and mother tending to a newborn baby

Who We Are

When Ambassador David M. Walters lost his 6-year-old granddaughter Shannon Joy to leukemia in 1970 due to lack of medical resources, the Ambassador vowed no child would ever have to leave South Florida to receive world-class healthcare. Together with doctors, nurses, technicians, staff, volunteers and the surrounding community, Ambassador Walters started Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation, now Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation, to help guide the transformation of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital into a nationally-ranked pediatric institution.

Ambassador David M. Walters surrounded by children

In 2019, Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation set a record-breaking year, raising nearly $2 million at the annual Diamond Ball gala in support of mental health initiatives at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. In total, we raised nearly $22.5 million during the year to support the children and families who turn to us during their most difficult time. With more than a 50% increase over the previous year, your continued support of our work is inspiring hope and promoting lifelong health by providing the best care to every child.

Our Leadership

Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of community, business and philanthropic leaders who serve voluntarily and without compensation. The Board and Foundation leadership are deeply committed to ensuring your donations are used in a fiscally prudent manner to benefit the children cared for at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

Board of Directors Foundation Leadership

Poised For The Future

Our vision is to create a healthy future for every child. For more than 70 years, Nicklaus Children’s has remained committed to providing amazing patient care to the communities that rely on us. With your support, we can do even more in the next 70 years to serve children with even better outcomes as we drive discovery and transform the way care is accessed, delivered and experienced in ways we never thought possible.

Foundation and 70th Anniversary logos

How we impact lives

Keep in Touch

Join our circle of champions who are passionate about keeping our kids healthy and happy. Sign up to receive periodic updates from us.

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