Akerman is proud to announce that the City of Miami has formally recognized Litigation Of Counsel Ricky Patel and his nonprofit organization, It’s 4 The Kids Foundation, with an official proclamation presented by Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez and Commissioner Ralph Rosado. The honor celebrates the foundation’s extraordinary contributions to children and families in Miami-Dade County, across the United States, and around the world.

Founded in 2013 by Ricky, It’s 4 The Kids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to bringing hope, dignity, and care to vulnerable children. What began as a grassroots effort to support children in Miami-Dade County has grown into an international movement of compassion and relief. The City’s proclamation commends the foundation’s unwavering dedication to service, empathy, and community impact.

The proclamation highlights the foundation’s broad-reaching initiatives, including:

• Bags of Hope Initiative: More than 34,000 duffel bags filled with essentials and comfort items delivered to foster children throughout Miami-Dade County.
• Christmas of Hope Program: More than 2,600 toys delivered to children, ensuring joy during the holidays regardless of circumstance.
• Meals & Emergency Aid: Over 890,000 meals and 107,000+ pounds of emergency supplies distributed to children and families facing hardship.
• Police of Hope Initiative: More than 3,000 care items provided to Miami-Dade police officers serving in underserved neighborhoods, strengthening community trust.
• Education & Community Support: In partnership with Care Elementary School in Overtown, the foundation provides ongoing support through meals, supplies, and mentorship that fosters learning and development.
• Pitch Perfect and Signature Programs: More than 3,025 children supported monthly, receiving essential care, stability, and hope.
• Global Outreach: Daily support for 42 children and 10 staff at its partner orphanage in Haiti, providing food, shelter, and education.

“The City of Miami proudly recognizes It’s 4 The Kids Foundation for its extraordinary local and global impact, transforming lives through service, empathy, and unwavering dedication to children and families in need,” the proclamation states.

Ricky, a nationally recognized trial lawyer in Akerman’s Miami office, has long leveraged his advocacy, leadership, and community partnerships to serve children facing crisis and adversity. His ability to mobilize volunteers, public agencies, and corporate donors has enabled the foundation to scale rapidly and sustainably.

The proclamation was presented at the Office of the Mayor of the City of Miami on November 20, 2025.