[MIAMI, FLA., MARCH 5, 2024] – The Greater Miami & The Keys Chapter of the American Red Cross honored Ryder System, Inc. at its 39^th Annual American Red Cross Ball and 4^th Annual Party in Red on Saturday, March 2 at the JW Marriott Marquis in downtown Miami.

Ryder System, Inc., a leading logistics and transportation company, was presented with the Corporate Humanitarian Award for their decades of compassionate and generous support in the face of disasters.

At the event, Ball Chairs Adriana Verdeja-Arango and her husband, Ignacio Arango, Esq. celebrated the lifesaving services provided by the Red Cross to South Florida residents. More than 300 guests were in attendance, sporting their finest red formal attire. Through the generosity of sponsors and attendees, the evening raised significant funds to benefit Red Cross preparedness, response and recovery programs and services.

"This event raised critical funds for services here in our community to help families experiencing a home fire, flood or hurricane and we are deeply grateful to all who graced our Ball with their presence and unwavering generosity," said Deborah Koch, executive director of the Greater Miami & The Keys Chapter. "It is an incredible honor to recognize Ryder System, Inc. for their extraordinary contributions to the Red Cross and the larger community. We are immensely thankful for their steadfast support and belief in our mission."

The Ball kicked off with a cocktail reception in the pre-function space of the Metropolitan Ballroom, where over 50 silent auction items were available for bidding, including a luxury cruise generously donated by The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection. Part of the program consisted of a tribute to the Corporate Humanitarian Award honoree, followed by dinner and dancing to live music. 

After the Ball, the 4^th Annual Party in Red brought Miami's young professionals together for the official afterparty to continue the celebration at one of South Florida's most prestigious social fundraising events. The 4^th Annual Party in Red was chaired by Eric Milton, David Ferreira and Tannaz Nekoi, MD.

Thank you to our generous sponsors: Bacardi, USA, Trish and Dan Bell, Bomnin Automotive, Citadel, Coastal Construction, Cushman & Wakefield, Swanee DiMare, Evensky Katz Wealth Management, Florida International University, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, iHeart Media, Inc., JLL Real Estate, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Manny de Zarraga Family, The Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition, Inc., Miami Herald, Pay Cargo, Polsinelli, Providence Healthcare Services, and United Property Management.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/SouthFlorida or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on Facebook or X at @SFLRedCross.