DIANA Susi

The AYUDA Guru

Diana Susi has been working with at risk families in Miami for over forty years. In college she realized that solely because of the language barrier, Hispanic children were often being placed in classes with kids with disabilities. With the help of two college professors she began training teachers and faculty to facilitate access to regular curriculum for Hispanic students. In 1977, she founded AYUDA, a community-based non-profit organization in Miami Beach which has served over 200,000 infants, children, adolescents and elderly. It provides programs that prevent abuse and neglect and provides mental health services and life skills training. AYUDA continues to make a difference in our community by serving as a safety net for those who lack resources.

Watch Diana’s interview to hear her describe what Miami Beach looked like when she arrived at age 11 from Cuba. She is also hosting AYUDA’S Give at the Garden on event on September 14th. Funds collected will go to support AYUDA’s Elderly Program that provides homemaker services to frail and isolated elders. Melina Almodovar and Tito Puente Jr. will provide entertainment and give a preview of their Miami Salsa Fest Show that will take place at the Bandshell later that week to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Finally, don’t miss her recommendations of authentic restaurants on the beach and tips of where locals go to relax and unwind on weekends.