$14 Million raised at United Hatzalah’s Miami Gala

By Linda Chase and Alan Goch - Jewish Connection News

Jan 8, 2025

The atmosphere was energetic and inspiring at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa in Aventura as former World Boxing Champion Floyd Mayweather announced that he was donating $1 Million to United Hatzalah of Israel. Mayweather made his pledge as he received United Hatzalah’s Champion of Israel Award during the life-saving organization’s annual Miami Gala. $14 Million was raised during the event that hosted 1,700 supporters. The gala’s co-chairs were Margo Cohen and Dr. Phil Frost.

Mayweather was recognized for his unwavering support of Israel and Hatzalah, especially during the war against Hamas. Recently, Mayweather donated 100 bullet proof helmets and vests to protect volunteers who continue to respond to wartime attacks.

“You are all fighters. I am a former fighter, but we keep fighting every day,” said Mayweather at the United Hatzalah Miami Gala. “Eli [Beer], you and United Hatzalah are doing such a great job. I will be here until the casket drops, supporting you and standing behind you as long as there are people who need your help.”

In honoring Mayweather, Eli Beer, Founder and President of United Hatzalah said, “Floyd Mayweather has shown the world what it truly means to be a champion; not just in the ring, but in life. In United Hatzalah’s most trying hours, Floyd stood with us, providing essential equipment to protect our volunteers and sending a powerful message of solidarity to the Jewish people. We are deeply grateful for his support of our organization, our volunteers and of Israel.”

Mayweather gifted philanthropist Dr. Miriam Adelson with a diamond necklace in the shape of Hatzalah’s logo.

“Dr. Miriam Adelson is not just a good woman, but a great woman,” Mayweather added.

Dr. Adelson, who wore a dress designed by designer Tovale Chasin, presented Chasin with the Fashion Ambassador Award.

“We all saw United Hatzalah ambulances go into the kibbutzim on October. The spirit of the volunteers is that they don’t give up,” Dr. Adelson added.

Other highlights during the evening included Jeanie and Jay Schottenstein and Family, being presented with the Humanitarian Award by Amy and Bob Book and Lili Montague and Keith Leight, grandchildren of Dr. Lynn and Paul Leight, announcing the inauguration of the L’Dor V’Dor initiative to bring in the younger generation to support United Hatzalah. Part of the funding from this Gala will go towards the Leight Initiative.

Following the dinner and program, Jay Leno, a long-time supporter of Israel and Honorary Board Member of United Hatzalah provided the featured entertainment for the evening, along with Mem, the popular masked Israeli singer, who made a surprise visit to the event after serving on the frontlines in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

For more information about United Hatzalah, visit: www.israelrescue.org

Photo: Boxing Champion Floyd Mayweather is joined by Eli Beer, Founder and President of United Hatzalah of Israel and Dr. Miriam Adelson at the gala in Miami. Photo by Goksun Ergur/United Hatzalah