New Big Brothers Big Sisters partnership through the VIC and CareerSource South Florida funds nine scholarships for Miami-Dade students pursuing tourism careers

MIAMI – (April 6, 2026) – The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (GMCVB) Visitor Industry Council (VIC) hosts the 33rd annual Hospitality Open Tournament (H.O.T.) Challenge Golf Tournament, Friday, May 8, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Featuring a day of championship golf, networking and industry engagement supporting Miami-Dade County’s future hospitality workforce, proceeds from the tournament have contributed more than $3.3 million over the program’s 30-plus year history, funding scholarships for more than 450 students.

In 2026, the VIC foundation continues its partnership with CareerSource South Florida, awarding nine two-year scholarships in collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami’s (BBBS) education and mentorship program. BBBS serves as the lead agency providing mentors for the local Take Stock in Children program. The high school student scholarships provide Miami-Dade students a pathway to careers in tourism and hospitality. Through this ongoing partnership, VIC, a non-profit 501 C (3) philanthropic and educational foundation also pairs its alumni and scholars with BBBS students, reinforcing its commitment to mentorship and workforce development. The program provides financial support and hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for successful careers in Miami-Dade County’s leading industry.

“Programs like the H.O.T. Challenge allow our industry to invest directly in the talent that will sustain and strengthen Greater Miami’s visitor economy,” said GMCVB President and CEO David Whitaker. “By fostering mentorship with industry leaders and organizations, we prepare the next generation of skilled industry professionals for career advancement, creating diverse job opportunities and upward mobility.”

The H.O.T. Challenge brings together hospitality leaders and community partners to raise scholarship funds for Miami-Dade students pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality – an industry that welcomes more than 28.2 million visitors each year, generates approximately $31.1 billion in economic impact annually and supports more than 209,000 jobs across the county.

“Mentoring is at the heart of Take Stock in Children’s mission. While scholarships and academic support are important, it’s the consistent guidance of a mentor that often makes the biggest difference in a student’s life. Students may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget that you showed up,” said Kevin Espino, Take Stock in Children mentor coordinator.

Businesses and individuals can participate by registering teams, sponsoring the event or contributing to scholarship funding. To register a foursome or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit HotChallenge.com.

About the Visitor Industry Council (VIC):

The VIC was established in 1991 to further career and educational opportunities in Greater Miami’s tourism sector. For more than three decades, VIC has provided scholarships and supports equitable economic participation for students pursuing careers in Miami-Dade County’s hospitality industry. With fundraising and operational support from the GMCVB and industry partners, VIC focuses on three program components: advocacy, talent development and career coaching.

To learn more about the VIC and its impact, or to explore partnership opportunities, visit www.miamiandbeaches.com/about-gmcvb/vic.

# # #

About the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB):
The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is an accredited, independent not-for-profit sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami and Miami Beach for leisure, business, meetings, and conventions. For additional information, visit www.MiamiandMiamiBeach.com/About-GMCVB or call (305) 539-3000. Stay connected with the GMCVB by following us on our corporate communications and external affairs social media channels: Instagram@GreaterMiamiCVB and LinkedIn/GreaterMiamiConvention&VisitorsBureau.

Get in Touch