05/26/2026
We mourn the passing of Ruth Shack - a longtime community leader whose impact on Miami-Dade County will be felt for generations.
Ruth dedicated her life to strengthening South Florida through philanthropy, the arts, public service, and community engagement. During the early years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic - long before social media - she stood with a community navigating fear, loss, and uncertainty.
For many years, Ruth personally attended The White Party held at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, our health center’s annual fundraiser and awareness event. In powerful moments, the music would pause, and she would speak from the dance floor - offering encouragement, compassion, and a reassuring presence to all in attendance.
In her role as Chair of The Miami Foundation, she also helped guide critical social service funding to our health center, strengthening the safety net for those in need.
Her leadership brought hope and dignity during difficult times, and her lifelong commitment to others helped foster a more caring and connected community.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.
Thank you, Ruth Shack, for your years of service - and for shining a light when it was needed most.
