About - U.T.B. United Third Bridge, Inc.

U.T.B. United Third Bridge, Inc., was founded by the late Samuel C. Lopez and is an educational, cultural and civil rights 501©3 nonprofit organization, incorporated in New York City on July 5, 1977, and also in Melbourne, Florida in 1998 committed to promoting and encouraging the education of Hispanics and minorities as well as hosting events that celebrate their contributions. From Advocacy to education, U.T.B. is leading the way to enact positive changes. By striving to promote what matters in our society we help to empower, educate, and engage Hispanics and minorities to create and make a positive impact in our community. We work together in solidary to raise educational and cultural awareness.

OUR PURPOSE
As a cultural, educational and civil rights organization, our purpose is to is to further the advancement of minorities in the areas of education, cultural, equal opportunities in employment, housing and social justice. We also encourage and actively support the promotion and advancement of minorities, oppose social, ethnic, religious or sex discrimination, patent or subtle, whether practiced by employers, trade, employees or fraternal organizations: Promote and encourage the education of minorities seeking entrance and advancement in employment and whenever possible, to provide appropriate training and counseling opportunities to meet their needs.

OUR GOALS
Empowerment

Educating the minorities of their rights of empowerment in government: Local, State, and Federal, by representation through the ballot box, voter registration and voter education.

Education

To develop, through education, a working relationship with city, county, state, federal government and the private sector.
To improve the quality of life of Hispanic Americans and other minorities.

Civil Rights

To oppose discrimination based on social, ethnic, religious race or sexual discrimination.
To investigate Civil Rights complaints.
To mediate Civil Rights inequities

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

U.T.B. has over 200 local members. Some of our accomplishments are:

The establishment of Equal Employment Opportunity Task Forces with Brevard County to evaluate Affirmative Action Plans regarding employment, construction contracting, and purchasing activities of the County and its affects on the minority community.

We have also been involved with the County Government assisting in the recruitment of qualified minorities for employment, construction contracting and purchasing.

The establishment of the John A. Rodriguez Memorial Fund for Hispanic American Police Cadets in 1995 at Eastern Florida State College (formally Brevard Community College) .

The establishment of the Irma Lozada Memorial Scholarship for Hispanic American Corrections and Probation cadets in 1996 at Eastern Florida State College (formally Brevard Community College).

The establishment of the Dr. Ramon S. Velez scholarship for community services at Eastern Florida State College (formally Brevard Community College).

The establishment of the Roberto Clemente scholarship for baseball players at Eastern Florida State College (formally Brevard Community College).

In conjunction with Health First, the establishment of a scholarship for nursing students at Eastern Florida State College (formally Brevard Community College).

The establishment of three additional scholarships in finance, fire fighting and legal assistance at Eastern Florida State College (formally Brevard Community College).

The establishment of the Maxwell King Education Scholarship at Eastern Florida State College and the University of Florida.

We are continuously working with the Sheriff’s Department, City of Melbourne, City of Palm Bay and other localities for the hiring of qualified Hispanic police officers, correction officers and probation officers.

Established an ongoing relationship with the Brevard County School Board in placing qualified Hispanic American and other minorities as teachers.

Uniting Hispanic minorities by establishing and hosting an annual Miss Latina Pageant in Brevard County.

The hiring of the first Puerto Rican reporter at Florida Today’s Newspaper.

Established a Puerto Rican/Hispanic community involvement workshop co-sponsored by Florida Today in the areas of: tourist development, affirmative action plan/equal opportunity employment plan, labor unions, voter education, naming of schools and street projects.

The establishment of a resolution by the County, School Board, the City of Melbourne and the City of Palm Bay, declaring the month of November as Puerto Rican Heritage Month by celebrating our culture, heritage and the contributions Puerto Ricans have made.

Established the Florida Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Inc., and purchased a building to house U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc., and the Chamber.

U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc., along with the help of the Florida Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Inc., many community leaders/organizations and the public, was able to finish Phase I and Phase II of the Don Juan Ponce de Leon Landing Statue Project in Melbourne Beach in honor of the 500 year anniversary of the discovery of Florida.

U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc., along with the Florida Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Inc., Our Lady of Grace Church, other churches, community organizations, the Puerto Rican Defense Fund, other community leaders and the public defeated the Anti-Immigration Ordinance proposed by the Palm Bay City Council.

U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc., along with the help of the Florida Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Inc, successfully petitioned NASA to send the first Puerto Rican Astronaut aboard a shuttle flight on a mission into space. As a result, Joseph M. Acaba, a Melbourne High School teacher was part of Shuttle Discovery crew in 2009.

On- going relationship with the Brevard County School System in placing qualified Puerto Rican/Hispanic American and other minorities as schoolteachers.

Eighteen years of partnership with the School Board of Brevard County staging the Annual Miss Latina and Miss Puerto Rico Pageants as a tool for young ladies to continue their education by providing the winner with a year’s scholarship at Eastern Florida State College.

Opened the door of opportunities for other non-profit organizations to have carnivals at the Wickham Park Pavilion.

The establishment of a resolution by the County, School Board and the City of Palm Bay declaring the month of November as Puerto Rican Heritage Month and celebrating our culture, heritage and acknowledging the contributions Puerto Rican have made to this country in our Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade.

In 2021, we celebrated twenty-five years of the partnership with U.T.B. and The School Board of Brevard County showcasing the diverse Hispanic Cultures of Brevard County in our Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Petitioned the City of Titusville Council to keep the De Leon Street from being renamed.

On May 15^th 2002, we proposed that the Ponce Landing Park be renamed Juan Ponce de Leon Landing Park, it was than submitted to the Board of County Commissioner and approved unanimously.

Naming of the Roberto Clemente Walker Sports Complex at Heritage High School in Palm Bay.

Worked in partnership with Time Warner to bring Spanish speaking television cable T.V. to Brevard County.

U.T.B. Puerto Rican Relief Fund was established after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico and we were able to send by cargo ships, close to four hundred thousand (450,000) pounds of needed supplies to the Island.

Raised money to buy a mobile building for use as a headquarters for assisting Brevard County residents with needed supplies during national disasters. The building was named, “Tikkun Olam”, in honor of a concept in Judaism, which means to take actions that help repair and/or improve the world.

The completion and installation of the Juan Ponce de Leon Statue at the Historical Landing Site in Melbourne Beach “1513 The First Landing”

On January 11, 2021 U.T.B.’s founder Samuel C. Lopez sadly passed away unexpectedly in his home. We are committed to carry on his work and legacy.

On April 15th, 2021, The baseball complex at Fred Poppe Regional Park in Palm Bay was named after Major League Baseball legend Roberto Clemente Walker. U.T.B started proposing this change 25 years ago. This accomplishment occurred after the death of the founder, Samuel C. Lopez who died on Jan 11, 2021.

On March 10, 2022 the entrance roadway to Palm Bay City Hall was dedicated to his legacy with a naming ceremony and unveiling of, “Samuel C. Lopez Way”. The proposal to name the street after Mr. Lopez was brought forward by former city of Palm Bay Mayor Ed Geier. This road naming celebrates a life well lived and a dedicated man of God, Samuel C. Lopez. May his memory be a blessing for all.

In August, 2022 U.T.B. created the Samuel Casiano Lopez Memorial Scholarship.

On October 20,2022 U.T.B. attended our Community partner, Green Gables’ event in a night to remember at Nightmare on Foggy Bluff. Such a spooky experience that helped to raise money for the refurbishment of their historical site.

On October 21,2022 we had our 25th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade Signature Anniversary Awards Ceremony where we awarded two Samuel Casiano Lopez Memorial Scholarship winners, one a senior from Brevard Public Schools and the other, a student at Eastern Florida State College. We also recognized several community sponsors, co-sponsors, patrons, Puerto Rican people, volunteers, Government officials and artists, all, who helped make THE 2022 year’s Florida 25th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Memory of the late Samuel C. Lopez possible.

On October 22,2022 we had our very successful Florida’s 25th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Brevard County. There were several participants in attendance along with marchers and floats from all over the state of Florida and from, Puerto Rico, Connecticut and New York. We had 7 food trucks in attendance and over 15 artists perform on stage along with several school choirs, marching bands, step groups and dance performers. We are very excited to already begin the planning for next year’s 2023 Parade and Multicultural events.

On November 16, 2022, U.T.B. a community partner of Green Gables at Historic River Village sponsored and decorated a Holiday Tree at the Green Gables Festival of Trees. Proceeds will go to the refurbishment of their historical site.

On November 20,2022 U.T.B. partnered with Train to Succeed to bless over 12 Brevard County families with complete Thanksgiving Meals. Thanksgiving meals were also donated to the Brevard Hispanic Center in Brevard County for distribution.

On December 21,2022 U.T.B. partnered with Aging Matters, Magnus Solutions and Train to Succeed to bring joy, meals, and gifts to over 30 senior families for the holidays.

On January 28, 2023, U.T.B. participated in Palm Bay’s Multicultural Festival in Brevard County, Florida. We shared and celebrated our Three Kings Day Hispanic culture with the community.
On March 6, 2023, U.T.B. proudly sponsored Eastern Florida State College’s Performing & Visual Arts Scholarships and attended their Arts Showcase.
On May 13, 2023, U.T.B. proudly attended and sponsored The Mother’s Day Salute Brunch, Eastern Florida State College Melbourne Campus.
On June 11, 2023, U.T.B. attended and participated in the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City, New York with a float celebrating our Puerto Rican history and culture. We love showcasing our Hispanic community’s contributions and sharing information and awareness about Brevard County, Florida.
On August. 22, 2023 U.T.B. was honored with a 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation from the City of Melbourne and Mayor Paul Alfrey.
On August 31, 2023 U.T.B. was honored to be a part of the Green Gables at Historic Riverview Village, Inc.’s ribbon cutting celebration.
On September 15, 2023 U.T.B. recognized the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15- October 15. During Hispanic Heritage Month and always, we celebrate Hispanics and Latinos accomplishments, diversity, and our contributions to our community and our world.
On September 19, 2023 the City of Palm Bay, Mayor Rob Medina, and the City Council honored U.T.B. with a Proclamation recognizing our 26th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade, our founder, Samuel Casiano Lopez and Hispanic Heritage Month 2023.
On September 23, 2023 U.T. B. named their three Samuel Casiano Lopez Memorial Scholarship recipients, Suriel Ramos (Brevard Public School student), Simara Alfonso and Krystal Valdes (Eastern Florida State students).
On September 29, 2023 U.T.B. United Third Educational and Cultural Fund in partnership with Eastern Florida State College and our Corporate Sponsor, Boniface Hiers presented Florida’s 26th Annual Gala for the Puerto Rican Day Parade. The Gala was held at Eastern Florida State College, Melbourne Campus in the Student Union Building. This was a beautiful event which began our kickoff of Hispanic cultural celebrations, awards, honors, scholarship recognitions and community festivities.
On September 30, 2023, U.T.B. United Third Bridge Educational and Cultural Fund presented Florida’s 26th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Palm Bay, sponsored by Boniface Hiers, partnered with The City of Palm Bay and IHeart Radio. It began promptly at 10am and the Multicultural Festival immediately followed at Palm Bay’s City Hall, Samuel C. Lopez Way. What an incredible day of events. From the parade line up, classic cars, school groups and bands, the awesome community talent, businesses and organizations, and the amazingly talented artists that performed, a huge heartfelt thank you!
On November 17, 2023, U.T.B. partnered with Magnus Solutions Inc, Train to Succeed, RLL Real Estate Group and BG ENT to deliver over 30 Thanksgiving meals to local families.
On February 9, 2024, U.T.B. was honored to support and attend the Green Gables “Somewhere in Time” Gala. What a fabulous evening it was.
On February 29, 2024, U.T.B. enjoyed attending and supporting the Palm Bay Police Foundation Chief’s Breakfast.
On March 2, 2024, U.T.B. proudly sponsored and supports Eastern Florida State College’s Performing & Visual Arts Showcase Scholarships.
On March 23, 2024, U.T.B. was honored to support and attend the 2024 City of Palm Bay Mayor’s Ball Charity fundraiser with this year’s recipient being Serene Harbor, such a great cause.
On March 26, 2024, U.T.B. Board members and their families attended a tour of the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
On May 5, 2024, U.T.B was honored to attend and sponsor The Mother’s Day Salute Brunch, hosted by Space Coast Sigmas: Kappa Chi Sigma at the Eastern Florida State College Melbourne Campus.
On June 30, 2024 U.T.B. experienced history come alive once again in a captivating presentation on the history of Juan Ponce de Leon and the joint efforts of U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc., the Florida Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Inc., Florida’s Space Coast Office of Tourism, esteemed historians, the City of Melbourne Beach, and elected Brevard County officials and how together we unveiled the statue, did the reenactment, and had the site created into an Historical Site, “Juan Ponce de Leon The Landing” in Melbourne Beach. Such a stunning tribute to the past and an incredible history lesson for those who were not aware of these historic events. in Brevard County. U.T.B. would like to thank Ken and the New York City Transit Police. It was a delightful time, and we are so grateful for this incredible collaboration.
On August 27, 2024, U.T.B. was honored with a 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation from the City of Melbourne and Mayor Paul Alfrey.
On September 21, 2024 (Through October 2024), U.T.B. set up our Hispanic Heritage Month display at the Space Coast Office of Tourism Visitor Information Center. We shared our founder, Samuel C. Lopez’s history, and our organizations history, and rich culture with the community. Viva Latino America!
On October 3, 2024, the City of Palm Bay, Mayor Rob Medina, and the City Council honored U.T.B. with a Proclamation recognizing our 27th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade, our founder, Samuel Casiano Lopez and Hispanic Heritage Month 2024.
On October 1, 2024, U.T.B. named their three Samuel Casiano Lopez Memorial Scholarship recipients, Athan Amalio and Israel Camacho Perez (Brevard Public School students, and Maria Jones (Eastern Florida State student). Congratulations and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
BORIKEN WEEKEND ON THE SPACE COAST: On October 5, 2024, Florida’s 27th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival Signature Awards Banquet hosted by: U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc. Educational and Cultural Fund and Morel’s Restaurant Bar and Grill in Palm Bay, Florida. Partnered with our exclusive automotive dealer, Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay, the City of Palm Bay, Hyatt Place Melbourne Palm Bay, Launch Credit Union, In Life Today Events, Morel’s Restaurant Bar and Grill, and Eastern Florida State College. From our Hispanic Heritage Month Cultural Celebrations to our BPS and EFSC Scholarship recipients and Empowering Women’s recognitions along with honoring our community, business partners, our Grand Marshel, Keynote speaker, PRDP God Mother, God Father, Ambassadors, Dignitaries, Elected Officials and more. A heartfelt thank you to EVERYONE who played a part in making our BORIKEN WEEKEND kick off a HUGE success and quite memorable.
On Sunday, October 6, 2024, U.T.B. United Third Bridge Educational and Cultural Fund presented Florida’s 27th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Palm Bay, partnered with our exclusive automotive dealer, Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay, the City of Palm Bay, Hyatt Place Melbourne Palm Bay, Launch Credit Union, In Life Today Events, Morel’s Restaurant Bar and Grill, iHeart Radio, and Eastern Florida State College. The parade began at 10am and the Multicultural Festival immediately followed at Fred Poppe Regional Park in Palm Bay, Florida. What an incredible day of events. From the parade line up, school groups and bands, the Jeep Clubs, Car Clubs, the delicious food trucks and vendors, kids zone vendors, the Blood Bus, the awesome community talent, businesses and organizations, and the amazingly talented artists that performed, Tito Puente Jr, Marcus Hernandez with Orchestra Fuego, JCee Colon with Zalsa en Control Orquestra, Emcee Boriqua Posse, DJ Oscar P, Alexa, Arlene G, Jesse B, Jesus Manuel, Laniel, Lunaa Maria, Nas-T-Boyz, OD on Music and more a huge heartfelt thank you!
On November 24, 2024, U.T.B. teamed up alongside family, friends, and the community to provide Thanksgiving meals to local deserving families. A heartfelt thank you to our partners, Magnus Solutions, Eastern Florida State College and Mujer Emprende Latina- Brevard County/ Space Coast. May every day be an opportunity to remember our blessings and may we take a moment to appreciate them always.
On November 25, 2024 (through December 8, 2024) Fill-A-Ford 4Kids Toy drive to benefit the children of U.T.B. Three Kings Day celebration., Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay partnered with U.T.B. United Third Bridge Inc, to help bring smiles to kids this holiday season by collecting toys to be distributed to local children in January 2025 at U.T.B.’s Three Kings Celebration. The community came together, and Gary Yeoman’s collected over 125 toys. A very special thank you to our amazing Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay team for their generous donations and dedication to helping to take care of our community. Together we are making the holidays brighter for so many children.
On December 3, 2024, U.T.B. participated in ” Giving Tuesday”. Thank you for your generosity which helps support charity organizations continue to give back to their communities. Giving Tuesday is an opportunity for people around the world to use their individual power of generosity to make a collective impact on their communities. Thank you, Brevard County Florida, for all you do to help us to continue to support our community.
On December 8, 2024, some of our U.T.B. members attend the Incredible Palm Bay Holiday Parade. Such a great time and fantastic turn out this year.
On December 24, 2024, U.T.B. enjoyed helping make the holidays a little brighter for several local families. We were able to provide them with a holiday meal and gifts. We are Incredibly grateful for the support of our community who continued to help us make this possible. We extend our sincerest gratitude to all the volunteers who assisted us in delivering the spirit of Christmas, Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay and Mujer Emprende Latina Brevard County/ Space Coast. Feliz Navidad! May the joy and spirit of the Holiday season remain with everyone throughout the year and may your New Year be filled with love joy and hope.
On January 25, 2025, U.T.B. was excited to bring joy and festive cheer to the children of Brevard County at Fred Poppe Regional Park through our Three Kings Cultural Celebration and Toy Distribution at The City of Palm Bay’s Multicultural Festival. In celebrating our Three King’s Cultural tradition, we presented gifts to local children with the assistance of Mujer Emprende Latina. This year’s gift donation, Fill-A- Ford 4kids, was powered by Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay in partnership with U.T.B. the initiative aimed to benefit the children of U.T.B. ensuring they experienced the magic and the traditions of our Three Kings Cultural Celebration. Today was a huge success! A huge thank you again to Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay and our local community.
On February 28, 2025, U.T.B. enjoyed attending and supporting the Palm Bay Police Foundation Chief’s Breakfast.
On February 28, 2025, U.T.B. was honored to support and attend the Green Gables “Masquerade” Gala. It was a beautiful evening.
On March 15, 2025 U.T.B. enjoyed participating in Mujer Emprende Latina’s Speed Networking Event in West Melbourne, FL. It was an exceptionally well‑organized and enjoyable event, marked by positive energy, meaningful interactions, and a welcoming atmosphere that made the experience both memorable and impactful.
On March 29, 2025 U.T.B. attended and proudly supported the Car Show at Green Gables, an event benefiting the Green Gables Historical House. It was a well‑executed and enjoyable gathering, featuring impressive vehicles, great community engagement, and a fun atmosphere that made the day truly memorable.
On April 24, 2025 U.T.B. attended the Breakfast Roundtable hosted by the Latino Commission on AIDS and Project Response, a meaningful gathering focused on improving the health and well‑being of the Latinx community. Over breakfast, participants engaged in thoughtful dialogue on key issues affecting our population, including income and education disparities, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mental health, substance use, HIV, workforce shortages, and insurance coverage. It was an important opportunity to collaborate, listen, and strengthen our shared commitment to advancing equitable health outcomes for our community.
On April 24, 2025 U.T.B. attended the Orlando Florida Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. Gala at the DoubleTree Hotel in Orlando, a truly beautiful and memorable event. The evening was filled with elegance, vibrant cultural pride, and a warm sense of community. From the music and traditions to the heartfelt recognition of Puerto Rican heritage, the gala captured the spirit of our culture with grace and authenticity. It was an honor to be present and to celebrate alongside so many dedicated leaders and community members.
On May 10, 2025, U.T.B. was honored to attend and sponsor the Mother’s Day Salute Brunch, hosted by the Space Coast Sigmas: Kappa Chi Sigma at the Eastern Florida State College Melbourne Campus. It was a meaningful celebration that uplifted mothers, community, and service.
On May 18, 2025, U.T.B. participated in and supported the 4th Annual Green Gables Antique Motorcycle Invitational, held in support of the Green Gables Historical House. The event was thoughtfully organized and truly enjoyable, showcasing remarkable motorcycles, strong community involvement, and a lively atmosphere that made the experience unforgettable.
On August 9, 2025, U.T.B. participated in an TV interview with Into the Spotlight TV Production in Orlando, Florida, highlighting the upcoming 28th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Palm Bay, FL. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our mission, celebrate our cultural heritage, and spotlight the community partnerships that make this event so meaningful.
On August 23, 2025 U.T.B. attended the Kiwanis Community Fun Fest in Melbourne, FL, joining families, partners, and local organizations for a day filled with community spirit, activities, and connection. It was a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community and support a fun, family‑friendly event.
On September 5, 2025, U.T.B. was honored to receive a 2025 Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation from the City of Melbourne and Mayor Paul Alfrey, recognizing our ongoing commitment to uplifting, empowering, and celebrating the Hispanic community.
On September. 10, 2025 U.T.B. proudly announced La Reina de U.T.B. 2025–2026, Aitza Reyes Roma — also known as Hibiscus Belle — as the official queen of the 28th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Palm Bay, FL. Her grace, cultural pride, and vibrant spirit embody the heart of our celebration and the legacy we continue to uplift.
On September 18, 2025, U.T.B. attended and participated in a business social and networking celebration at Eastern Florida State College, engaging with local leaders, partners, and organizations.
On September 19, 2025, U.T.B. proudly announced the 2025 Samuel Casiano Lopez Memorial Scholarship recipients. These three outstanding individuals have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their education, community, and cultural heritage. Their hard work, leadership, and passion embody the true spirit of this scholarship, created in honor of the legacy of Samuel Casiano Lopez. Congratulations to Gabriella Marold, Amelia Augusta Gutierrez, and Tamara Calderon on this well‑deserved recognition.
September 20, 2025, U.T.B. attended the Green Gables Harvest Festival, joining the community in a day filled with local history, family activities, and vibrant seasonal celebration.
On October 2, 2025, The City of Palm Bay, Mayor Rob Medina, and the City Council honored U.T.B. with a Proclamation recognizing Puerto Rican Day on Oct. 4,2025, Florida’s 28th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade in Palm Bay, our founder Samuel Casiano Lopez, and Hispanic Heritage Month 2025. It was a meaningful acknowledgment of our cultural legacy, community impact, and continued commitment to celebrating and uplifting Hispanic heritage.
On October 4, 2025, U.T.B. United Third Bridge, Inc. hosted a community blood and platelet drive in Palm Bay, Florida. The event brought residents together in support of lifesaving efforts and highlighted U.T.B.’s ongoing commitment to serving and strengthening our community.
BORIKÉN WEEKEND ON THE SPACE COAST: On October 3, 2025, Florida’s 28th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival Signature Awards Banquet, hosted by U.T.B. United Third Bridge, Inc. Educational and Cultural Fund in partnership with Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne, brought our community together for an unforgettable evening. We were proud to collaborate with our 2nd year exclusive automotive partner, Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay, along with the City of Palm Bay, Hyatt Place Melbourne Palm Bay, Giant Recreation World, Brevard Public Schools, Sam’s Club, Route 1 Motorsports, Costco Wholesale, Launch Credit Union, Ven Pa’Ca Latin Restaurant, Florida Today & LocalIQ, Walgreens, Papa Ratzi Photographer, In Life Today Events, Walmart, The Home Depot, Golf Cart ER, Tritt Productions, Florida Wildlife Hospital, and Master Blaster Records. From our Hispanic Heritage Month cultural celebrations to recognizing our BPS and EFSC scholarship recipients, Echoes of Wisdom honorees, community leaders, business partners, Grand Marshal, keynote speaker, PRDP Godmother and Godfather, ambassadors, dignitaries, elected officials, and more—this evening was a powerful tribute to culture, unity, and legacy. A heartfelt thank‑you to EVERYONE who contributed to making the kickoff of BORIKÉN WEEKEND a tremendous success and a truly memorable celebration.
BORIKÉN WEEKEND ON THE SPACE COAST: October 4,2025 U.T.B. proudly presented Florida’s 28th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival in Palm Bay, strengthened by the support of an extraordinary network of partners. We were honored to collaborate with our 2nd‑year exclusive automotive partner, Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay, along with the City of Palm Bay, Hyatt Place Melbourne Palm Bay, Giant Recreation World, Brevard Public Schools, Sam’s Club, Route 1 Motorsports, Costco Wholesale, Launch Credit Union, Ven Pa’Ca Latin Restaurant, Florida Today & LocalIQ, Walgreens, Papa Ratzi Photographer, In Life Today Events, Walmart, The Home Depot, Golf Cart ER, Tritt Productions, Florida Wildlife Hospital, and Master Blaster Records. Their collective support helped bring this cultural celebration to life in a powerful and meaningful way. The parade stepped off at 10 a.m. from Walmart on Malabar Road, filling the streets with vibrant culture, music, and community pride. The Multicultural Festival continued the excitement at Eastern Florida State College Palm Bay, Florida, where thousands gathered to enjoy an unforgettable day. From the dynamic parade lineup, school groups, and marching bands to the Jeep and Car Clubs, delicious food trucks, diverse vendors, kids zone activities, the Blood Bus, outstanding community performers, local businesses, organizations, and the incredibly talented artists who graced the stage, every moment contributed to a truly remarkable celebration.
On October 24,2025 U.T.B. had an absolute blast participating in the Foggy Bluff Holiday Haunts in Melbourne, Florida, a festive community event benefiting the Green Gables Historical House. It was a wonderful mix of holiday spirit, local engagement, and support for an important piece of our community’s history.
On November 17, 2025, U.T.B. joined BCASCA in their Hurricane Relief Drive to support families and homes devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Together, we worked to provide essential resources, compassion, and hope to those impacted by this disaster.
On November 24, 2025, U.T.B. was blessed to provide Thanksgiving meals to more than 50 local families. Every day is an opportunity to count our blessings, today, and always, we give thanks. A huge thank‑you to our volunteers, donors, and partners whose generosity and hard work made this possible once again this year. Your commitment continues to make a meaningful difference in our community.
On December 2, 2025, U.T.B. proudly participated in Giving Tuesday. Thank you for your generosity, which helps charitable organizations continue giving back to the communities they serve. Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder that people around the world can use their individual acts of kindness to create a collective impact. Thank you, Brevard County, Florida, for all you do to help us continue supporting our community. Your compassion and commitment make a real difference.
On December 12, 2025, U.T.B. extended our deepest thanks to Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay for an incredible outpouring of generosity. We are truly grateful to your team and the community for collecting over 400 toys for United Third Bridge, Inc.’s Three Kings Celebration. Your support means the world to the families and children we serve here in Brevard County, and your kindness continues to make a lasting impact.
On December 22, 2025, this day held a special place in the hearts of Puerto Ricans and U.T.B. as we united to celebrate our cherished flag, an unshakable emblem of heritage, resilience, and indomitable spirit. It stands as a powerful symbol of identity, unity, and the vibrant cultural legacy that continues to define and uplift the Puerto Rican community.
On December 29, 2025, as we approach the final days of the year, U.T.B. pauses with hearts full of gratitude. Thank you to our families, partners, volunteers, and supporters who walked alongside us throughout 2025, lifting communities, building bridges, and creating meaningful impact together. We close this year grounded in purpose and step into 2026 with hope, unity, and renewed commitment to service. Here’s to continued growth, connection, and collective strength in the year ahead.
On January 4, 2026 U.T.B. was excited to team up with WICCS, West Indian Caribbean Culture & Sports, for the 2026 Three Kings Gift of Giving to the Community Celebration. The day was filled with delicious cultural foods, music, entertainment, children’s games, free gifts, and meaningful fellowship. Held at Fred Poppe Regional Park, this event was completely free to the public and truly overflowed with joy, unity, and community love. A huge thank‑you to Gary Yeomans Ford Palm Bay for their 2nd Annual Toy Donation Drive. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and for helping us spread holiday cheer and joy to so many children!

****SAVE THE DATE ***** OCTOBER 2026 FRIDAY – BY INVITATION ONLY- U.T.B. Educational and Cultural Fund Presents Florida’s 29th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade Signature Awards Banquet. Please continue to check back for more details.
*****SAVE THE DATE ***** OCTOBER 2026 SATURDAY- U.T.B. Educational and Cultural Fund Presents Florida’s 29th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade, Multicultural Festival ********Parade begins promptly at 10am with the festival immediately following. * Staging and set up begins at 8:30am. Please continue to check back for more details. SEE YOU THERE!