Win Jar

Dara Wins the Community Spirit Award

Celebrating Dara Schoenwald

Honored with the Community Spirit Award at Miami-Dade's 37th Annual In the Company of Women Ceremony

We are overjoyed to share some truly wonderful news: our co-founder, Dara Schoenwald, has been awarded the Community Spirit Award at the prestigious 37th Annual In the Company of Women awards ceremony, presented by Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces in partnership with the Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade and the Miami-Dade Commission for Women.

Held each March to honor Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, this ceremony has recognized trailblazing women in Miami-Dade County for nearly four decades — counting among its past honorees Celia Cruz, Gloria Estefan, and U.S. Congresswomen Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Frederica Wilson. To see Dara’s name added to that legacy is something that fills all of us at VolunteerCleanup.Org with immense pride.

“Women who exemplify professional excellence, visionary leadership, and a commitment to inclusivity” — this year’s recognition perfectly describes the spirit Dara brings to everything she does.

 

Dara’s dedication to community runs deep and wide. As co-founder of VolunteerCleanup.Org, she has channeled her energy into connecting volunteers with the work that keeps our neighborhoods, parks, and natural spaces clean and thriving. But her service doesn’t stop there.

As President of the Rhythm Foundation Board, Dara champions the arts and cultural life of our community. And as an active member of 100 Women Who Care, she joins a circle of women committed to pooling their generosity toward meaningful local causes. Together, these roles paint the picture of someone who shows up — consistently, wholeheartedly, and with joy.

The In the Company of Women Community Spirit Award recognizes individuals who inspire others through their commitment to the greater good. We can think of no one more deserving. Congratulations, Dara — thank you for everything you do, and for reminding us all what it looks like to truly give back.