Marriage Matters Takes the Spotlight
We’re proud to celebrate a special moment for Be Strong International as our work was recently featured in the August edition of Miami’s MIA Media & Communications Group magazine.
The feature shines a spotlight on Marriage Matters, Be Strong International’s program dedicated to helping couples strengthen communication, build connection, and develop the skills needed to create healthy, lasting relationships.
The magazine feature highlights how Marriage Matters provides couples with practical tools to improve their relationships, including communication skills, expressing appreciation, providing support, and navigating challenges together. The program is available to couples ages 18 and older, whether they are married, engaged, or committed to building a stronger relationship.
Celebrating Barbara Jean’s Recognition
The issue also features Barbara Jean, Senior Program Manager at Be Strong International, as one of Miami’s 2026 40 Under 40 Honorees. This recognition celebrates young professionals making an impact in the Miami community, and we are excited to see Barbara recognized for her leadership and dedication to strengthening individuals, couples, and families through her work at Be Strong International.
Having both Marriage Matters and Barbara featured in the same issue is a wonderful reflection of the impact our team is making in the community.
Want to see the full article and Barbara’s feature in the magazine? Check the link here Legacy MIAMI 40Under40 issue2026
Sold-out waterfront event honors community leaders and highlights life-changing impact of Heart Skills® programs
Be Strong International’s Hearts in Rhythm on the River 2026 concluded on April 30 with a sold-out gathering of community leaders, philanthropists and supporters at Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge. The annual event celebrated the organization’s impact on youth and families across South Florida while raising critical support for its Heart Skills® programs that equip young people with tools for fostering stronger relationships at home, in school, and in the community.
Set along the Miami River, the evening was filled with vibrant energy as guests connected, shared stories, and celebrated the life-changing work of Be Strong International. The ambiance reflected a true sense of unity and purpose, as attendees engaged in heartfelt conversations and experienced firsthand how Be Strong International’s programs are transforming the lives of youth by building confidence, improving communication at home and fostering connection among their peers as a result of the organization’s Heart Skills® programs.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Stronger Together Award to four distinguished leaders: Cathy Burgos, Director of the Community Services Department for Miami-Dade County; George Joseph, President and CEO of Dade County Federal Credit Union; Rodrick T. Miller, President and CEO of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council; and Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami-Dade College. Each honoree expressed deep gratitude and pride in receiving the recognition, underscoring their shared commitment to strengthening the South Florida community. Reflecting on the mission of Be Strong International, Madeline Pumariega shared, “Successful people have heart. Be Strong International’s focus on helping youth and teens develop those heart skills not only strengthens our community, it strengthens who we are as individuals. I am honored to receive this award because our values are truly aligned.”
The program also featured an inspiring moment from 2026 Rising Star student Kristel Gonzalez, who delivered a powerful and heartfelt speech about her journey in Be Strong’s after-school program. Kristel shared how the program helped her build confidence, form meaningful friendships, and develop essential life skills she did not have before, especially Heart Skills®, which transformed her relationships with her family, friends, and teachers. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the organization’s lasting impact on youth.
“Hearts in Rhythm is more than an event. It is a reflection of what happens when a community comes together to invest in the next generation,” said Michelle Shirley, CEO and Chief Heart Officer of Be Strong International. “The energy in the room and the stories shared remind us that transformation is possible, and it starts with equipping young people with the right tools.”
This event was made possible through the generous support and championship of community partners, including TD Bank, Amazon, Mastercard, Dade County Federal Credit Union, Evo Air, and MPS Credit Union, among many other institutions committed to advancing the mission of Be Strong International. Proceeds from the event will directly support Be Strong International’s programs serving youth and families across Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
Click the gallery to view the pictures of the evening: https://www.bestrongintl.org/events/gallery/
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Be Strong International (BSI) is honored to announce a transformative two-year grant from the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, a philanthropic leader dedicated to improving education, health, and community well-being. This extraordinary investment serves as a powerful affirmation of BSI’s mission to strengthen families and empower individuals with the Heart Skills® needed to build healthier relationships.
“This grant represents hope, stability, and possibility for so many families who are yearning for connection,” said Michelle Shirley, CEO and Chief Heart Officer of Be Strong International. “Strengthening relationships strengthens communities. When couples thrive, children thrive, and the entire family system has a better chance to break cycles of stress and instability. We are deeply grateful to the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation for believing in the work we do and the lives we touch every day.”
The DeLuca Foundation’s support will sustain and expand Marriage Matters, one of BSI’s most impactful relationship-strengthening programs. Grounded in compassion, communication, and emotional wellness, Marriage Matters provides a fun and engaging, multisession curriculum for couples seeking greater understanding, harmony, and connection.
The program goes far beyond traditional skills training. It helps couples build healthier communication patterns, strengthen mutual respect and emotional regulation, reconnect with one another after periods of stress or disconnection, and develop long-term habits that support a stable, nurturing home environment. Offered in both English and Spanish, Marriage Matters intentionally serves low to moderate-income families and couples facing significant life stressors. Thanks to this grant, BSI will be able to serve over 200 couples over two years, providing not only workshops but also coaching, partner referrals, and access to wraparound services such as financial coaching and mental health support. to moderate-income families and couples facing significant life stressors. Thanks to this grant, BSI will be able to serve
In addition to supporting the Marriage Matters program, a significant portion of the grant will allow BSI to establish its first Fundraising Department, a long-awaited step toward organizational sustainability. This new department will focus on strengthening donor gifts and increasing donor visibility, ensuring the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Michelle Shirley, CEO and Chief Heart Officer of Be Strong International, was recently featured in VoyageMIA Magazine, where she shared her personal journey, professional path, and the experiences that shaped her passion for relationship education and emotional wellness.
In the interview, Michelle reflects on growing up in Miami as the daughter of Jamaican immigrant parents and how witnessing domestic violence in her childhood influenced her life’s mission. Rather than allowing adversity to define her, she transformed those early challenges into purpose, dedicating her career to helping individuals, couples, and families build healthier, stronger relationships.
Michelle also opens up about the realities of nonprofit leadership, including navigating uncertainty, advocating for the organization’s mission, and making personal sacrifices to support her team. Her story highlights resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact in the community.
For Michelle, success is measured not by recognition but by transformation, the quiet yet powerful moments when individuals gain clarity, families reconnect, and people discover new ways to communicate and grow.
👉 Read the full VoyageMIA feature here:
https://voyagemia.com/interview/check-out-michelle-shirleys-story/
New appointees from South Florida’s legal and health sectors to further strengthen non-profit growth and support local families.
Miami, FL (April 25, 2025) – Be Strong International, an award-winning non-profit serving South Florida families for more than 30 years, has appointed two new members to its Board of Directors. New members Randy M. Weber and Dr. O’Neil J. Pyke will help support Be Strong International’s mission of providing healthy relationship education programs that strengthen individuals and families in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
The now ten-member board is dedicated to overseeing one of South Florida’s rising nonprofit organizations. Like the current members, the new appointees bring expertise and resources from influential South Florida organizations:
Randy M. Weber, Founding Partner and Trial Attorney at Pita Weber Del Prado.
Mr. Randy M. Weber is a founding partner and trial attorney at Pita Weber Del Prado, with over 25 years of experience litigating and trying both criminal and civil cases in Florida’s State and Federal Courts. Beyond his multiple professional achievements, Mr. Weber is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with several charitable organizations in Miami-Dade County, including Assistance to the Elderly/Residential Plaza, Be Strong International, The American Heart Association, and Vitas Hospice Care.
Dr. O’Neil J. Pyke, Chief Medical Officer, Jackson North Medical Center, North Miami Beach, FL.
Dr. O’Neil J. Pyke is an accomplished healthcare consultant and Chief Medical Officer with over 24 years of clinical experience and six years of board experience. He has a proven track record of enhancing operational efficiency, quality of care, and financial viability in healthcare organizations. Dr. Pyke has successfully scaled healthcare businesses to 9-figure revenue and launched multimillion-dollar revenue streams. He serves on several boards, including Be Strong International, The Hospitalist, and Today’s Hospitalist Magazine.
“We’re proud to welcome these accomplished professionals to our Board of Directors,” said Lisa Greer, President of Be Strong International’s Board of Directors. “They bring a remarkable set of skills and a history of caring for the community, and the entire Board is excited about working with them.”
“This is a critical time for Be Strong International and the families who rely on us,” said Michelle Shirley, CEO of Be Strong International. “The challenges our community faces are real and growing, and I’m deeply grateful to have such a passionate and qualified board by our side as we work to bring hope, healing, and lasting change.”
For more information and updates on its programs, follow Be Strong International on social media @bestrongintl or through the website https://bestrongintl.org.
About Be Strong International
Be Strong International is an award-winning nonprofit organization that provides educational services and resources to families in Broward and Miami-Dade counties, helping them thrive with healthy relationships, and Heart Skills® education. Founded in 1992 by Mrs. Althea McMillan, a retired Miami-Dade County Public Schools teacher, it is now led by Michelle Shirley, CEO and Chief Heart Officer. Be Strong International’s Heart Skills® programs teach families how to make better decisions about relationships, money, work, and family life. In addition, Be Strong International partners with other institutions to offer resources that directly help the communities it serves, such as food drives and back-to-school supply drives. Known for its transformational workplace culture, Be Strong International has been selected as one of the Best Places to Work by the South Florida Business Journal and provides healthy culture training to corporations and universities. For more information and updates, follow Be Strong International on social media @bestrongintl or through their website: https://bestrongintl.org.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Monika Sanchez, monika@bestrongintl.org
Mishell Valenzuela, valenzuelam@bestrongintl.org
We’re thrilled to announce a significant and heartfelt milestone in our journey: “Be Strong Way” is now officially on the map! This incredible moment serves as a landmark not just in our community but in our organization’s mission to empower, educate, and uplift families and young people throughout Miami-Dade County.
On this special day, we were joined by Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Palmetto Bay Mayor Karyn Cunningham, who both delivered words of encouragement and support that truly resonated with all in attendance. It was also an honor to have our very own CEO and Chief Heart Officer, Michelle Shirley, lead the celebration with her inspiring vision and steadfast dedication. Each of these leaders, along with all who came out to support, helped make this event unforgettable and affirming.
The unveiling of “Be Strong Way” stands as a vibrant symbol of our commitment to strengthening families, building healthy relationships, and fostering resilience in our community. This street name is more than a marker on the map; it embodies the heart and soul of our work at Be Strong International. It’s a reminder that each day, with every workshop, conversation, and outreach event, we are collectively taking steps forward—empowering individuals and transforming lives.
Thank you to everyone who shared this moment with us, and to all our supporters who believe in our mission. Here’s to many more steps forward and continued impact as we keep walking down Be Strong Way, paving paths of empowerment and positive change!
Check more pictures here: https://www.bestrongintl.org/events/gallery/
In a recent interview with Authority Magazine, Mr. Darryl K. Auberry, a key leader and program manager of Parent Club at Be Strong International, shared valuable insights on nurturing resilience in children. Emphasizing the importance of building strong, supportive relationships, he discussed how crucial open communication and emotional guidance are in today’s world. Mr. Auberry highlights that fostering resilience goes beyond preparing kids to face challenges—it’s about instilling lifelong confidence that enables them to thrive and adapt.
From encouraging self-expression to teaching effective problem-solving skills, Mr. Auberry’s strategies remind us that resilience is a gift that parents, mentors, and educators can all help cultivate. For more on these practical approaches, explore his full interview and see how we at Be Strong are dedicated to empowering the next generation.
We’re grateful for our ongoing partnership with The Children’s Trust and Parent Club, who share our vision for empowering families and supporting youth resilience. Together, we continue to make strides in equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s world.
Check more of the interview here:
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved founder, Ms. Althea McMillan, today, July 23rd, 2024. Ms. Mac, as we called her affectionately, was not only a visionary leader and an inspiring mentor but also a cherished friend to many.
Ms. Althea McMillan, a former Miami-Dade County Public School teacher, founded Be Strong International in 1992, with a mission to educate youth and parents on fostering and maintaining themselves emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Her unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and compassionate nature have left an indelible mark on our organization and the community we serve.
Throughout their life, Ms. McMillan was known for her dedication, selflessness and immense love to God. Her legacy will continue to inspire us and guide our efforts as we move forward.
We extend our deepest condolences to Ms. McMillan’s family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable life. As we mourn this significant loss, we also celebrate the incredible impact Ms. McMillan had on all of us.
Rest in peace, Ms. Mac. You will be forever missed and never forgotten.
Your Be Strong International Family.
Stressed Out? Here’s Help
Learn to recognize and cope with what’s eating you, during Stress Awareness Month.
Money troubles, health concerns, work and family responsibilities demanding your time and attention – these are some of the common sources of stress that can wear you down and take all the pleasure out of life. But it’s not the stress itself that hurts – it’s the way we respond to it. The first step is to become aware of what’s bringing worry and anxiety into your life so you can deal with it.
April is Stress Awareness Month, an annual event sponsored by the Health Resource Network (HRN). The non-profit health education organization created it to bring healthcare professionals together with health promotion experts to help Americans understand what HRN calls a “modern stress epidemic.”
When you’re dealing with the pressures on a daily basis, it’s easy to think you’re the only one. But you are far from alone. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 65 percent of adults say that “the current amount of uncertainty in our nation causes them stress.” The APA also reports:
- More than three-quarters of adults report symptoms of stress, including headache, tiredness, or sleeping problems
- Eighty percent of U.S. workers say they experience stress on the job.
- Forty-nine percent of U.S. adults (49%) say stress has negatively affected their behavior.
Signs of Stress
The effects of the pressures and anxieties you’re living with can have serious consequences, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration.
- Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests.
- Trouble concentrating and making decisions.
- Nightmares or problems sleeping.
- Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, or skin rashes.
- Worsening of chronic health problems and mental health conditions.
- Increased use of alcohol, illegal drugs (like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine), and misuse of prescription drugs (like opioids).
Even though you probably can’t get rid of the things causing your stress, the good news is that you can develop strategies for managing your reaction to them, and you can get help if you need it. “Learning to cope with stress in a healthy way will help you, the people you care about, and those around you become more resilient,” the CDC assures.
Here are some strategies the CDC recommends:
- Take breaks from news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed, but constant information about adverse events can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, TV, and computer screens for a while.
- Eat healthy. Have fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat or no-fat dairy. Limit foods with unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars.
- Get enough sleep. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to help you sleep better. Adults need seven or more hours per night.
- Move more and sit less. Every little bit of physical activity helps. Start small and build up to 2 ½ hours a week. You can break it into smaller amounts, perhaps 20 to 30 minutes daily.
- Limit alcohol intake. Choose not to drink, or drink in moderation on days you drink alcohol. Moderation means having two drinks or less a day for men or one drink or less for women.
- Avoid using illegal drugs or prescription drugs in ways other than prescribed. Don’t take someone else’s prescription.
- Avoid smoking, vaping, and the use of other tobacco products.
- Continue with regular health appointments, tests, screenings, and vaccinations.
- Make time to unwind.
- Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
- Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others
- Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
- Connect with your community-based or faith-based organizations.
Where to Turn
If stress is overpowering you or a loved one, don’t go it alone.
- Contact Be Strong International for community mental health resources to help you cope. We also offer workshops and educational programs to help individuals and families make informed decisions about money, work, and family life, which can become stressful without the tools to navigate them. A critical part of this process is our Heart SkillsTM training, which helps participants build meaningful relationships by connecting authentically with the people in their lives.
- For immediate help in a crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lifeline. TTY users can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 988.
- For more information on Stress Awareness Month, visit http://healthresourcenetwork.org
Pictured: Luisa Santos, Lisa Greer, Karyn Cunningham, Leanne Tellam, and Grant Miller.
Grant Miller joins Be Strong International’s Back to School Strong Event
Thank you to Grant Miller and Miami’s Community Newspapers for joining us in our Back-to-School Strong 2023 Event!
See more here: Grant Miller joins Be Strong International’s Back to School Strong Event | Coral Gables Community News# (communitynewspapers.com)