
Greetings Friends, Clients & Colleagues,
We hope our latest note finds you and yours well.
Last Saturday, Marile and I celebrated another “Date Night For A Cause” with 500+ of our closest friends.
The cause–Branches: seeking “to serve, educate and inspire people through student, family and financial stability services in partnership with our communities“.
Standing on their Shoulders
We had the honor of celebrating with our dearest friends Trish & Dan Bell, whose tireless commitment and dedication to Branches is contagious and full of love and hope.
As past 2019 Trish & Dan Bell Community Empowerment Award Honorees (Video) we know first hand that it is Trish & Dan Bell’s inspiration which leads many of us to serve.
Join us in congratulating the 2025 recipient–Kimberly Green (Video) head of The Steven J. Green Family Foundation. Marile and Kimberly Green are International Women’s Forum (IWF) sisters, and served together at The FIU Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs.
We also congratulate Gala Chairs Leah & Phillip Sylvester, Marlin Hill, Esq.–inspiring master of ceremonies, Branches President & CEO Brent McLaughlin and the entire Branches Family for doing God’s work everyday.

Break the Cycle of Generational Poverty
Since 1973, Branches has focused on empowering our disadvantaged neighbors to pursue life changing opportunities. Branches’ programs focus on three fundamental characteristics for student achievement, family services, and financial wellness.
- Grow–for Elementary Students
- Climb–Middle & High School Students
- Achieve–Financial Services for Adults & Families
How Can You Help
Combating generational poverty cannot be done alone. Your support—whether through donations, volunteering, mentoring, or simply spreading the word—helps Branches continue their essential work.
To support or learn more, please visit:
https://branchesfl.networkforgood.com/projects/227426-fy-2025-annual-campaign
Together, We Can Change Lives
Join us in standing with Trish & Dan Bell, past and present Community Empowerment Awardees in ending generational poverty.
With heartfelt thanks,
Marile & Jorge Luis Lopez, Esq.
Volunteers, Donors & 2019 Trish & Dan Bell Community Empowerment Awardees Branches