The heart of Miami was on full display at a recent breakfast hosted by Miami Community Newspapers in South Miami, where County Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins and Miami-Dade Fire Chief Ray Jadallah joined local leaders and residents to celebrate community, service, and growth.
The Dade County Federal Credit Union (DCFCU) Business Development team was also in attendance, representing the credit union’s ongoing commitment to supporting local initiatives. Michael Joseph, DCFCU’s Director of Business Development, spoke briefly about the importance of community involvement and the role DCFCU plays in empowering local organizations and individuals to make a difference.
A Morning Dedicated to Community
The breakfast, hosted by Grant Miller, brought together civic leaders, community members, and organizations dedicated to making Miami-Dade County the best place to live and work. Attendees were encouraged to get involved in local initiatives, volunteer efforts, and charitable causes that strengthen the community.
As a proud community partner, DCFCU continues to champion causes that reflect its mission of service and connection. The event underscored how meaningful progress comes from collaboration — when neighbors, businesses, and public servants come together to support one another.
Fire Chief Ray Jadallah: A Local Success Story
Miami-Dade Fire Chief Ray Jadallah shared his inspiring journey of dedication and service. Raised in South Miami, he began his career at just 13 years old as an explorer with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue. After briefly working in Palm Beach County, his heart called him back home, where he rose through the ranks to become Fire Chief in 2022.
Chief Jadallah’s story embodies what it means to give back to one’s community — a reflection of hard work, perseverance, and passion for public service.
Commissioner Cohen Higgins on Progress and Innovation
Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins provided exciting updates on key infrastructure and transportation projects improving life across South Miami and beyond.
- Traffic Circles along Old Cutler Road: Designed to ease congestion and improve safety for daily commuters.
- Metro Express (Bus Rapid Transit): Officially launching October 22, this major transportation upgrade will provide faster, more efficient travel options for residents.
- Palmetto Bay Bridge Project: Set for completion in Spring 2026, this project will reduce bottlenecks and improve connectivity throughout the region.
While some of these initiatives have sparked community debate, Commissioner Cohen Higgins emphasized that each one represents a step forward in creating a more connected and accessible Miami-Dade.
Coming Together for a Brighter Future
From infrastructure upgrades to community outreach, the event highlighted a common message — progress happens through partnership. Leaders like Commissioner Cohen Higgins, Fire Chief Jadallah, and organizations such as DCFCU remind us that a thriving Miami-Dade depends on everyone’s participation.
As Michael Joseph noted, “It takes a community to make a difference.” By supporting one another and investing in the neighborhoods we call home, we continue to build a stronger, more vibrant Miami-Dade for generations to come.
