Following the special presentations, the commission moved on to the nomination and selection of the Vice Chair, a position that received considerable attention. Dr. Magda Demerit was chosen for the role after a round of discussions and nominations, which included a nomination for Norissa Gitman.

The commission also deliberated on a proposal by Prosperity Social and Community Development Group for a Mother’s Day vehicle giveaway to support single parents in need. The initiative’s representative underscored the significant impact that a lack of transportation has on a parent’s ability to engage in their child’s school activities and to access improved employment opportunities. During the discussion, questions were raised about the logistics, including the date of the giveaway, the details about the car, and the type of support the commission could offer. Despite an initial motion for the board to support the initiative, the motion failed due to a lack of detailed information, with some members voting against it. Confusion about the vote’s intention led to a clarification that the group was seeking engagement rather than a financial commitment at that stage.

The upcoming Women’s Health and Wellness conference commanded attention as members discussed various aspects such as the conference agenda, timing, and budget. Opinions varied on the event’s duration and how to maintain attendee engagement. The need for pre-registration, inclusion of speaker photos on event flyers, and sponsorship involvement were among the logistical matters debated. A detailed budget proposal for awards and decorations was requested, and the commission decided to table the discussion until the next meeting.

Fundraising for the business master class was another topic, with a focus on garnering financial support from the city council using the council members’ discretionary funds. The commission considered presenting the project in October to align with the Small Business Administration’s celebration of women-owned businesses. Additionally, the members discussed reaching out to small business owners for donations and explored the possibility of applying for grants or partnering with organizations like the SBA or chambers of commerce.

The commission also emphasized the need for a clear plan and strategy to achieve the fundraising goal for supporting women in business. The importance of community engagement and support from various entities was highlighted, with discussions about reaching out to chambers of commerce within Miami-Dade County for collaboration.

Other meeting notes included the setting of deadlines for agenda items, the recruitment of interns and volunteers to assist with the commission’s workload, and addressing the issue of members missing meetings. There was also a call to revive the commission’s social media presence and create marketing materials like flyers and business cards. Upcoming events related to mental health awareness and Haitian Heritage Month were announced.