JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT WITH DINNER, BAR, MUSIC, AWARD CEREMONY, SPECIAL SPEAKERS, AND MORE...
The Golden Years Hearts Gala 2025
"Uplifting the Golden Years of Our Seniors"
The Golden Hearts Gala is a fundraising event dedicated to advancing the mission of Vida Senior Centers, the oldest nonprofit organization serving Latino seniors in the Washington, D.C. area. This formal evening brings together leaders, philanthropists, and community members to celebrate the resilience, contributions, and dignity of our older adult population.
Message from the President/CEO
Dr. Maria Teresa McPhail
Dear Friends and Supporters of Vida Senior Centers, It is with profound gratitude and heartfelt joy that I welcome you to our Golden Hearts Gala 2025—an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and vibrant spirit of the older adults we proudly serve. For decades, Vida Senior Centers has been a beacon of hope for seniors in Washington, D.C., especially those navigating the challenges of cultural and linguistic isolation. From the visionary leadership of our founder, Mr. Carlos Rosario, to the dynamic community hubs we operate today, Vida has remained unwavering in its mission: to empower Hispanic and multicultural seniors to age with dignity, purpose, and connection. Every day, thanks to the generosity of donors, partners, and volunteers like you, we provide life-enhancing programs—from nutritious meals and wellness education to case management and social engagement. These essential services uplift not just individuals, but entire communities, ensuring our elders live not in isolation, but in celebration. The Golden Hearts Gala is more than a night of elegance—it is a powerful affirmation of our shared commitment. The evening will feature inspiring stories, stirring performances, a live auction of exclusive items, and a meaningful awards ceremony—all in support of expanding and sustaining our vital work. Your presence tonight is a testament to the value we place on our seniors. It is through your support that we are able to meet the growing needs of our aging population and continue to build a future where every elder is seen, supported, and honored. Thank you for joining us on this special occasion. With golden hearts and a united purpose, we move forward—lifting those who have paved the way and ensuring their legacy continues to shine.
Message from the Board President
Mr. Oscar Maccio
Dear Friends and Supporters, It is my great pleasure to invite you to the 2025 Golden Hearts Gala, a night dedicated to honoring the spirit, resilience, and vibrant lives of our cherished senior community. This unforgettable evening will bring together compassionate individuals like you who believe in the dignity and strength of aging with grace, purpose, and joy. As Board President of VIDA Senior Center, I am proud of the work we continue to do every day, providing essential services, health programs, social engagement, and a true sense of belonging for hundreds of older adults in our community. But none of it would be possible without your support. I hope you will join us for this special celebration, a night filled with inspiration, entertainment, and meaningful impact. Together, we can continue building a future where all seniors feel seen, valued, and empowered.
Masters of Ceremony
Mr. Pedro Biaggi
Pedro Biaggi is a distinguished Puerto Rican media professional with over 40 years of experience in radio and broadcasting. Currently, he serves as President and General Manager of Costa Media, overseeing top Latino stations DC87.7 FM and La Pantera 1220 AM & 100.7 FM in Washington, D.C. In addition to his leadership roles, Pedro is a seasoned morning show host, known for his engaging on-air presence and deep connection to the Latino community. Pedro also hosts and produces influential programs such as “Cambios de Vida” on DC Office of Cable Television and “DC Contigo” on Univision Washington. His extensive career reflects a strong commitment to delivering culturally relevant content and amplifying Latino voices in the media landscape.
Mrs. Yuliza Reid
Yuliza Reid is a dynamic and bilingual journalist and the CEO of Linkfusion Marketing. With extensive experience in TV, radio, social media, and community engagement, she combines storytelling and strategic marketing expertise to create impactful experiences. Known for her engaging presence and strong connections within diverse communities, Yuliza excels at hosting memorable events with professionalism and warmth. Fluent in English and Spanish, she is passionate about amplifying voices and fostering meaningful connections. As Master of the Ceremonies, Yuliza ensures every event is inspiring and flawlessly executed. .
Keynote Speaker
The Honorable Xavier Becerra 25th U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (Ret.) |FORMER Attorney General of California |Candidate for Governor of California
Xavier Becerra was born in Sacramento, California to immigrant parents, and was the first in his family to graduate from a university and become a lawyer. He started his career as a legal advocate for individuals with mental illness, then served 12 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives where he championed key healthcare reforms, including the Affordable Care Act, lowered Medicare costs for seniors, and protected Americans’ Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) from painful cuts. In 2017, Congressman Becerra became California's Attorney General, where he led efforts to protect Californians' privacy and consumer rights and hold large corporations and the opioid industry accountable. He defended both the Affordable Care Act and the DACA program for Dreamers all the way to the Supreme Court and won. In 2021, AG Becerra became the 25th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where he oversaw the operations of Medicare, the ACA, Medicaid, the FDA, CDC, and NIH. As HHS Secretary, Xavier Becerra was in charge of a budget twice as large as the Department of Defense. Under his leadership, America achieved the highest level of healthcare coverage in history — with more than 300 million Americans possessing their own health insurance. He successfully led the first ever negotiations to lower prescription drug prices that pharmaceutical companies charge millions of Medicare beneficiaries, reducing prices up to 80%. And he successfully executed the Biden Administration's campaign to end the COVID pandemic.
Honorary Speakers
Eduardo Perdomo. Director at the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA).
Eduardo Perdomo is the first self-identify Afro Latino to lead the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs in 47 years. He is originally from the Dominican Republic. He has been living in Washington DC for over 9 years. Eduardo has over 15 years of experience in project management working in community development and international development projects financially supported by the United Nations, Organization of American States, Spaniard Agency for International Development, US Agency for International Development, and the Government of the District of Columbia. He currently serves as the Director at the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA) where he develops strategies to better serve the Latino community. Since coming to MOLA Mr. Perdomo has contributed with the increase of 70% of the agency’s grants budget. Eduardo Perdomo was instrumental in the creation of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Immigrant Justice Legal Services Grant, which is a landmark program that aims to provide legal assistance to DC immigrant community. He played a crucial role in the COVID-19 pandemic response by connecting DC Latinos to vital services around housing, health and wellness and financial relief.
Jackie Reyes. Director at the Mayor’s Office on Community Affairs (MOCA).
Jackie Reyes-Yanes’ journey from El Salvador to becoming a pivotal figure in Washington, D.C.‘s community development is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Immigrating to the U.S. in 1990, she faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language, experiences that fueled her passion for public service. Her grassroots activism and political insight, honed through years of community engagement, positioned her as a natural choice for leadership in addressing the city’s diverse needs. Throughout her career, Reyes-Yanes has demonstrated a profound commitment to public service. As Latino Affairs and Community Outreach Director for the late DC Councilmember Jim Graham, she organized gang and crime prevention events that significantly reduced street violence. She also secured funding to rebuild the Monseñor Romero Apartments in Mount Pleasant after a devastating fire in 2008. Under her visionary leadership as the Director of MOCA the offices have flourished, expanding its reach to encompass 14 constituent and culturally-focused offices. Notably, she spearheaded the establishment of the Mayor’s Office on Caribbean Community Affairs and the Mayor’s Office on Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing, ensuring broader representation and making sure more diverse voices across the District are heard and represented.
