Awareness of the many needs and the many levels of poverty found throughout every society and her involvement in organizations dedicated to improve the lives of those less fortunate, motivated Lilia to establish a non-profit that would focus on helping those who were the most vulnerable, the children and the elderly, in her native Dominican Republic. A career of over 30 years in Hospitality and International Business, including over 15 years of successfully running her own business, have given her the valuable tools that now help her effectively direct the efforts of the foundation.

Although her time is divided between Montana and Florida and the many responsibilities of entrepreneurship, Lilia’s commitment and passion for the causes of the foundation is reflected in her day to day activities and her volunteer work in the community.

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With over thirty years of work with non- profit organizations and USAID in managerial positions overseeing and implementing programs designed to assist and improve low income orphanages, hospitals, hospices and senior homes, Laura’s extensive knowledge is a great asset to the foundation and has been pivotal in identifying which projects are most suitable to the goals of the foundation. Although retired and living in Santo Domingo, when her time is not taken up by the foundation, Laura is actively involved in different social causes and volunteers at local hospitals in the Maternity and Children’s wards as well as visiting and comforting the ill either in hospitals or their homes.

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A long time resident of Vero Beach, Florida, Valerie has been involved in non-profit organizations for many years and her ability to coordinate and place local volunteers to assist has been an integral part to the success of the many different annual events held in Indian River County which benefit the community at many different levels. Her close involvement in some of the causes has given her an up-close and personal perspective of the many existing necessities of those who are in a disadvantaged position in life. When Valerie is not involved in one activity or the other to benefit the community, she dedicates her time to her favorite hobby, growing “Texas Roses” also known as the “Crown of Thorns” which she sells through the local Garden Club and proceeds benefit the Girasoles Foundation.

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Currently living in San Francisco, California, Stephanie has a B.S. in Economics and Internal Affairs from Florida State University. Throughout the past five years, she has worked in community development programs in the Dominican Republic, Guatemala and India. These programs have been heavily focused in education, microfinance and women empowerment as well as creating sustainable development projects throughout the world. The experience and immersion in the different societies, has strengthen Stephanie’s desire to make the world a better place. Stephanie’s enthusiasm, knowledge, commitment and views bring balance to the foundation and she is in charge of developing our future “Girasoles I – School & Community Center” in Palmarejo, Dominican Republic.

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