Blog

For nearly 30 years, Riviera Presbyterian Church has been more than a partner to YES Institute—it has been our home. From celebrating Pride together to expanding opportunities for professional development, this enduring partnership reflects our shared commitment to fostering welcoming, inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.

On June 12th, YES Institute gathered with donors and supporters for an evening of gratitude, connection, and inspiring testimonials, celebrating the impact of our work with young people and families across South Florida.

The Pink Flamingo Hospitality Certification Program is back, helping hospitality teams create welcoming experiences for all guests. YES Institute is expanding the initiative across South Florida with the Miami-Dade LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce.

YES Institute recently hosted its flagship Communication Solutions™ course, helping participants navigate challenging conversations and build stronger relationships. We were also honored with a Miami-Dade County proclamation recognizing June 3, 2026, as YES Institute Day, celebrating 30 years of service to South Florida.

YES Institute partnered with the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and Alper JCC Miami Pride Empowerment Circle to share tools for affirming care, mindfulness, and wellbeing. Participants gained practical strategies for patient-centered connection and belonging.

We are honored to share that YES Institute’s Claire Tolman Barone was named GMFEA’s Most Valuable Event Person of the Year for leading the organization’s 30th Anniversary celebration, “Luminous Voices, Limitless Futures.”

Across Pride weekend, YES Institute showed up across Miami to build connection and belonging—from leading a well-being and resiliency workshop at the University of Miami to sharing our mission with community leaders at a Town Hall. Discover the impact we’re creating!

We are thrilled to announce that YES Institute has been selected as the GableStage Non-Profit Partner for their production of Eureka Day on Thursday, May 14th!

YES Institute Executive Director Joseph Zolobczuk joined The Route to Success, drawing on three decades of experience to explore belonging, connection, and courageous dialogue.