Double your impact with CHICO'S Challenge
Help us unlock $25,000 and bring comfort and healing through therapy dogs like Chico.
MEET CHICO
Chico is a certified therapy dog with a gift for connection. Alongside his handler Albert Miniaci, he brings comfort and healing to those who need it most — from children undergoing chemotherapy to struggling teens and individuals with disabilities. His gentle presence transforms lives.
HOW CHICO CAME INTO ALBERT'S LIFE
Chico didn’t just become a therapy dog — he became a lifeline. When Albert was facing health challenges and needed to stay active, his wife Beatriz brought home a tiny mini schnauzer, hoping the companionship would help. At first, Albert resisted. But day by day, Chico became part of the routine and, eventually, Albert's best friend.
What started as a way to encourage movement turned into a bond that brought joy, purpose, and healing. Two and a half years ago, Albert and Chico became a certified pet therapy team with Canine Assisted Therapy. Since then, they’ve been bringing comfort to children, seniors and individuals with disabilities across South Florida.
Their journey is a testament to the power of the human-animal bond — and the beginning of Chico’s Challenge.
WHY ALBERT GIVES BACK
Albert and his family have long been champions of compassion and community. Through the Alfred and Rose Miniaci Family Fund of the Community Foundation of Broward, they’ve supported countless causes that bring hope and healing to those in need.
Seeing the transformative power of therapy dogs firsthand, this year, Albert is extending that legacy by matching donations from new or lapsed donors made through December 31st, up to $25,000.
He and his wife Beatriz, along with Chico and the Alfred and Rose Miniaci Family Fund are challenging our community to step up and support a cause that brings light to those in darkness. By matching these donations, they are doubling the impact of your generosity—because they believe everyone deserves the healing touch of a canine.
WHY YOUR GIFT MATTERS
Whether you're a new, existing or returning donor, help provide uplifting visits to people in hospitals, treatment centers, schools, senior care facilities, and other human service organizations. Your gift can reach:
- A senior in memory care who hasn’t had a visitor in weeks
- A child undergoing chemotherapy who finds joy and comfort in a wagging tail
- A teen battling depression who feels seen and loved
- A Veteran who finds peace in quiet companionship
C.A.T. supports nearly 150 therapy dog teams. Each team costs over $3,100 per year to recruit, certify, and deploy. Your support makes these life-changing visits possible.
If you’re a new or lapsed donor (haven't given in the last year), your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar — up to $25,000.
Make your donation today and help us bring comfort, connection, and healing to those who need it most. Every gift helps us reach more people in need — even if it’s not matched.
