Who to Know: Marile Lopez
Marile Lopez is dedicated to giving back to the community, and currently participation in The American Red Cross of South Florida, Miami Children’s Hospital Health Foundation, American Cancer Society and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade are among her most active. In fact, Marile and her husband, Jorge Luis Lopez, are the Chairs of this year’s sold-out 33rd Annual American Red Cross Ball presented by FPL, taking place on March 14. The Ball is one of South Florida’s most prestigious social affairs and a continuously successful event for the American Red Cross South Florida.
Marile says, ‘When supporting a cause, I consider whether we can make an impact. Is this a cause that we have a passion for? Is the cause’s mission aligned with our Catholic faith, which is fundamental to us and our family. Jorge Luis and I are honored to be Chairs of the American Red Cross Ball presented by FPL because unconditional help to our community is the primary mission of the ARC. This humanitarian organization positively impacts people’s daily lives. Their efforts go above and beyond being first responders, in a local, national or global catastrophe. American Red Cross brings compassion and hope to those in need.”
Philanthropy runs in the family. Giving back is second nature to our kids – all five of them: AR (19), Carli (16), Annia (14), Saramelia & Luis Jorge (9).
Marile believes that her and Jorge Luis’ biggest accomplishment is seeing her children involved in the community, giving of their time, and watching them wanting to help because it is the right thing to do. Their family’s motto is Don’t wait to be asked – Volunteer and Give Back!
In addition to her “daytime job” as Chief Financial Officer of Jorge Luis Lopez Law Firm, Marile still takes time to serve the South Florida community through her leadership roles in various charitable organizations. As a result of her charitable work, Lopez received the “American Cancer Society Exceptional Achievement Award” in 2011, the “St. Jude’s Honor Award for Philanthropic Work” in 2012, and the “James W. McLamore Volunteer of the Year Award” and “American Cancer Society’s Inner Circle of 12” in 2013.
In 2014, she was recognized by Neiman Marcus Coral Gables, “Honoring Women Who Have Influenced the Community with Outstanding Charitable Causes,” the “Virtue of Charity Award” by the Archdiocese of Miami, the “Charles “Bebe” Rebozo Humanitarian Award” and “Mujeres Giving Back Treasure Award” from the Women’s Fund.
In addition to working with non-profits, Marile & Jorge Luis make it a priority to attend their kid’s sports events, as all 5 children are involved in sports. Marile’s relaxation comes from cooking. She enjoys this very much, creating her own recipes and sharing them with her friends – particularly during her famous Holiday luncheon. For 9 consecutive years she has hosted over 150 ladies at her home for her memorable “Ladies Christmas Brunch.” Ask any one of her close friends, and they will vouch for this delicious and fun event.
