Isaac “Ike” Behar

Humanitarian, philanthropist, and clothier Isaac “Ike” Behar is the founder of and visionary behind the renowned IKE BEHAR clothing line. Behar is also a long-time supporter of the Latin Auxiliary of Douglas Gardens, an influential group of community members who support programs at Miami Jewish Health Systems, a non-for-profit healthcare organization in Miami which is near and dear to Ike Behar’s heart.

Miami Beach resident Ike Behar grew up in pre-revolutionary Cuba where, as the son of one of Havana’s finest tailors, he learned the art of custom shirt tailoring. At age 20, he left Havana with $50 in his pocket and the dream of building a new life in America and a new empire in fashion. After a career which included mentoring and partnering with Ralph Lauren, Behar became one of the greatest names in American apparel manufacturing and design.

Behar’s work as an active participant in the Latin Auxiliary includes helping to fund programs at Miami Jewish Health Systems such as the Music Therapy Program. The Music Therapy Program helps promote the health and well-being of the organization’s nursing home residents through donations which help afford a full-time board certified music therapist, musical instruments, a wide range of music media and recordings, as well as support equipment and resources.

As a result of his humanitarian efforts, Ike Behar was awarded the Latin Auxiliary’s Lifetime Achievement Award held at its annual Luncheon & Boutique on June 17, 2010.