Passport to Peace: CBOB’s 2nd Annual Gala

        Children Beyond Our Borders, Inc. had its second annual gala, Passport to Peace, on October 3 at the Florida Hotel in Orlando. THe proceeds benefitted the IAMCBOB scholarship program, which provides motivated students from Colombia the necessary funding to attend college. In exchange, the scholars act as leaders through their service to empower other youth in their communities.

        Passport to Peace brought together CBOBers from all over the state, which provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate an extremely successful year that has allowed for CBOB’s programs to expand. This year of success was made possible through the dedication, passion and hard work of the directors, interns, members, volunteers and supporters.

        “It was a really family-like atmosphere at gala,” said Leanne Rodriguez, the Development and Community Outreach Intern. “Everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves so much.”

        Awards were given to recognize certain people who have played an integral role in the success of CBOB. The WE ARE CBOB awards were presented for the first time and given to the interns that have gone above and beyond for CBOB. This award was presented to Juanita Buitrago, Anna Diakun and Tatiana Paz.           
        Natalie Jiron received intern of the year for all her hard work.

        ​Adam Mickler received volunteer of the year. He quickly earned the admiration of all the children he met on his bound for peace trip. “You’re a person filled with kindness and friendship. I will never forget the young man that made me see how beautiful friendship can be,” said one of the children at Hogar Maria Isabel de Bedout about him.

        CBOB’s Medical and Public Health Opportunity volunteer of the year award was given to Andres Guerrero and Elizabeth Castaneda for their excellent service.

        The CBOBer of the Year was given to Gaby Garcia, who is the Public Relations Director for CBOB’s University of Florida chapter.

        The alumni of the year award was given to Dragana Tabakovic for her continued passion for CBOB.

        The student chapter member of the year award was given to Sasha Alvarenga and Acacia Douglas for their support of UF CBOB.

        The e-board member of the year award was given to Taylor Palmer from FSU for all her help bringing CBOB to FSU.

        ​And last but certainly not least, the Executive Director Andrea Ortega got engaged at gala! Congratulations on behalf of the CBOB family!