About Us

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 Our journey as a nonprofit organization has been one of remarkable growth and unwavering commitment to community service. Since its founding in the 1990s, we have been a beacon of cultural celebration and civic engagement in South Florida. Originally created to serve Puerto Ricans and individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a connection to Puerto Rico or its people, we have fostered a sense of unity through social, civic, and cultural events.

The organization was first established under the name “Puerto Rican Organization of Florida.” However, in 1994, it was renamed Puerto Ricans Organized Overseas in Florida Inc. (PROOF) to avoid confusion with similarly named groups and to better reflect our mission. From the very beginning, PROOF has been guided by its founding philosophy: to preserve, protect, and promote the interests, values, and traditions of Puerto Rico and its people throughout the State of Florida.

Our story began with a small but determined group of 15 Puerto Ricans who gathered on June 23, 1990. Within weeks, their passion and vision attracted 45 members, and by August of that year, PROOF hosted its first major event—a family picnic that welcomed over 600 attendees. This milestone reflected the dedication of our early leaders and the power of grassroots communication.

Over the years, PROOF has received recognition from local government, media, and private organizations for its contributions to the community. These honors have highlighted our efforts to promote cultural exchange, strengthen civic engagement, and celebrate Puerto Rican heritage.

Today, PROOF continues to build on this legacy by organizing a wide range of civic, cultural, educational, and social programs. We remain committed to fostering connections, supporting families, and instilling pride in our shared heritage. Many lasting friendships and relationships have been formed within the PROOF community, and we are proud to provide a platform for Puerto Rican families to share their values and traditions with future generations.

As we look to the future, PROOF is embracing new opportunities to expand its reach and enhance its impact. With your support, the dedication of our members, and the enthusiasm of our Board of Directors, we are excited to continue providing meaningful events and initiatives.

We invite you to join the PROOF family this year. Together, we can honor our heritage, strengthen our community, and inspire generations to come.