Nicklaus Children's Hospital celebrated the 11th Annual Carlin Family Prom, bringing patients and their families together for an Out of This World-themed evening of joy, connection and milestone memories that illness too often puts out of reach. Held at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, the event welcomed patients who might otherwise miss prom due to medical needs, infection concerns or hospitalization, creating a safe, unforgettable night where they could truly feel like the stars, they are.
Adam and Chanin Carlin, the philanthropic force behind the prom since its founding in 2014, announced a generous new commitment that will extend the Carlin Family Prom for the next five years. Their support ensures that young patients at Nicklaus Children's can continue to celebrate this cherished rite of passage, no matter what their medical journey looks like.
Since 2014, the Carlin family's vision has driven a mission rooted in one core belief: no medical condition should ever mean missing out on childhood traditions. What began as a single evening of celebration has grown into South Florida's longest-standing prom event at a children's hospital, a testament to the Carlins' unwavering dedication to the patients and families of Nicklaus Children's.
True to the full prom experience, the Out of This World-themed celebration kicked off weeks before the big night with dress and suit shopping for patients. On prom night, professional stylists from Pinned by Jovie provided hair and makeup sessions before guests stepped into an evening featuring a photo booth, arcade games, arts and crafts, and a curated book selection to take home, courtesy of Books for You Miami. DJ Affect kept the energy high on the dance floor, while The Therapy Dogs by Alexandra Ramos welcomed patients with a spectacular Hora Loca, ushering them into another universe for the night.
Parents and guardians were treated to their own special evening at a nearby reception featuring a seated dinner, a 360-degree photo experience, a painting station by Lara Restelli Art Studio and a floral station by Passion Growers, allowing families to celebrate alongside their children while the patients enjoyed their night in the spotlight.
"For 11 years, the Carlin family has stood beside our patients and families, helping ease the burden of protecting milestones that make the teenage years feel normal, even in the midst of illness," said Allison Baker, President of Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation. "Adam and Chanin’s decision to extend this commitment for an additional five years is an extraordinary gift, not only for the children who will attend future proms, but for every family who walks through our doors and is reminded that joy, belonging, and celebration have a place in healing at Nicklaus Children's Hospital."
The Carlins' vision has inspired a growing community of local partners who return year after year to make the night possible. The event was made possible through the continued commitment of the Carlin Family and the generous support of 4Sound Group, DJ Affect, Books for You Miami, Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, Lara Restelli Art Studio, Pinned by Jovie, Prosel, Passion Growers, The Therapy Dogs by Alexandra Ramos, The Therapy Horse by Alexandra Ramos, and WOW MKTG.