Gratitude And The Spirit Of The Holidays - Messages From The Mayor & Vice Mayor of Sunny Isles Beach

The holiday spirit isn’t just about what happens on Thanksgiving Day; it’s about embracing the little opportunities to show kindness and generosity throughout the season. Maybe that’s lending a hand to someone who needs it, volunteering your time, or simply telling your loved ones how much they mean to you. No act of kindness is too small—every gesture of care has the power to strengthen the bonds in our community.

As we enjoy this special time, it’s also important to acknowledge that our city is going through a period of change with the upcoming election. No matter the outcome, we remain a strong, united community. Elections are part of the democratic process, but what holds us together is far bigger than any campaign or result. Our shared values—kindness, respect, and a commitment to each other—are what truly define us.

This Thanksgiving, let’s focus on what brings us together. We are more than neighbors—we are friends, partners, and teammates working toward a better future for all. We’ve proven time and time again that when we come together, we are capable of great things. Whether it’s supporting local businesses, looking out for one another, or finding ways to lift someone’s spirits, these actions reflect the heart of who we are.

So, as you gather with family and friends, I encourage you to embrace this season of gratitude and celebration. Take time to appreciate the moments, both big and small, and let the people in your life know how much they matter. And as we move forward together, remember we are one community— stronger together, and ready to build a brighter future.

Wishing you a joyful Thanksgiving filled with laughter, love, and gratitude. You can contact Mayor Larisa Svechin at: lsvechin@sibfl.net. Or: (305) 792-1753.

Being Thankful And Paying It Forward

Alex Lama, SIB Vice Mayor - I find myself reflecting on all that I have to be grateful for: my health, a loving family, good friends, a safe home, and food in the fridge, among many other blessings. But it is also a time to think about those who are facing difficult times and may not be as fortunate. Whether it’s the devastation caused by natural disasters—like the back-to-back hurricanes that have affected many of our neighboring communities—or the challenges of living with physical and mental health issues, or even the daily struggle to put food on the table amid financial difficulties, the need for help in our society is vast.

One of the most meaningful ways to show gratitude for our own good fortune is to extend a helping hand to those in need. I believe this is the ultimate expression of thankfulness. If you are in a position to support your neighbors and communities, here are some reputable organizations through which you can make a difference:

Disaster And Crisis Relief:

• Volunteer Florida: www.volunteerflorida.org
• Global Empowerment Mission: www.globalempowermentmission.org
• Team Rubicon: www.teamrubiconusa.org

Physical And Mental Health:

• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: www.stjude.org
• Anxiety And Depression Association Of America (ADAA): https://adaa.org/get-involved
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org/get-involved
• National Federation of Families: www.ffcmh.org/get-involved

Food and Housing Assistance:

• Feeding South Florida: www.feedingsouthflorida.org
• Farm Share: www.farmshare.org/how-to-help
• Camillus House: www.camillus.org

If you feel the call to help in other areas, a simple Google search can lead you to causes that align with your interests. As Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

You can contact Vice Mayor Alex Lama at: seat2@sibfl.net. Or: (305) 792-1752.