As we closed the books on our fiscal year ending May 31, Seraphic Fire reached an important milestone: we are proud to announce that we ended the year with a balanced budget and achieved the highest individual fundraising total in our 22-year history!
This wasn’t easy. It was the result of hard decisions, early action, and the commitment of an entire community. Supporters rallied around us, foundations stepped up at key moments, and our team, staff, and Board worked together with purpose and urgency. What started as a year filled with financial uncertainty became one of the most meaningful successes in Seraphic Fire’s history.
A Difficult Beginning
This past year, the entire arts sector in Florida faced major funding challenges. A significant reduction in state-level arts support forced many organizations to scale back. At Seraphic Fire, the impact was immediate. We had to reassess everything.
But instead of retreating, our supporters leaned in. Our donors renewed early. New contributors joined our family. Partners offered additional support, and our audience stood by us. This community believed in what we do and made it clear they weren’t going to let the music stop.
Turning the Tide
Executive Director Dr. Danny M. Yanez, CFRE, joined Seraphic Fire in the fall of 2024, bringing his experience as a fundraising expert and nonprofit transformation leader. Under his guidance, and with the full support of the Board of Directors and dedicated staff, the organization took quick, thoughtful steps to stabilize and rebuild.
Every dollar raised, every relationship strengthened, and every opportunity pursued helped bring us back to solid ground. Rather than simply survive the moment, Seraphic Fire delivered a transformational year. Individual contributions reached a new high. Lapsed donors were reengaged, and new support was cultivated. We fulfilled our season commitments, honored every contract, and never compromised the quality of our music.
A United Effort
The success of this fiscal year is shared by everyone involved in our mission. Under the leadership of Board Chair Diane Ashley, our Board played a critical role in steering us forward, offering their insight, connections, and unwavering commitment. Our staff worked behind the scenes to keep concerts running and donors engaged. Our singers delivered world-class performances, night after night, with passion and professionalism.
Most importantly, our audience and supporters said yes. They said yes to more music, more education, more impact. They saw the challenge and chose to be part of the solution.
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the collective effort of so many, Seraphic Fire is now entering the 2025–26 season with stability and momentum. Our performances will continue to reach audiences across Miami, Coral Gables, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Naples. As a nonprofit, we remain deeply committed to education and outreach, continuing to make a lasting impact in the lives of the students we serve. And our music will continue to reflect the excellence that defines this ensemble.
We are proud of how far we have come. But more than anything, we are proud of the community that made it possible. If you’ve been part of our journey, or if you’re ready to experience Seraphic Fire for the first time, we invite you to join us this season with a subscription and be part of what comes next.
To everyone who gave, who believed, and who stood with us this year, thank you. You didn’t just help us balance a budget. You helped us raise our voice, grow our reach, and inspire more people through music.
