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s President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County, Malena Mendez brings unparalleled leadership expertise and fundraising acumen to the organization. Since joining in January 2021, she has energized the team with her passion for empowering youth and igniting their potential.
Within months of taking the reins, Mendez spearheaded the groundbreaking Broward Bigger Better Stronger campaign, a bold initiative aimed at reducing the waitlist and raising $1 million to support programming and staffing. The results were nothing short of remarkable: 76% of children on the waiting list were matched with mentors, and an astonishing $1.1 million was raised – exceeding all expectations! Under her leadership, Big Brothers Big Sisters has recorded a record-breaking net assets of $4.1 million.
Mendez’s impact extends far beyond fundraising. She launched a targeted awareness campaign to elevate the organization’s presence in the community, increased staffing to serve more children, and strengthened the board of directors by recruiting influential community leaders. Her dedication has also led to the successful launch of the BIG Thank You Breakfast, which drew over 200 guests to celebrate Bigs’ volunteer commitment, as well as a revamped Déjà Vu annual fundraiser that grossed a record-breaking $500K in 2023.
A seasoned professional with over 18 years of experience at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Mendez brings invaluable expertise in fundraising, sponsorship, marketing, events, and relationship management to Big Brothers Big Sisters. As Director of Corporate Partnerships, she cultivated major corporate partnerships that generated significant funding for the Center.
A true champion for Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission, Mendez was previously an active volunteer and founding member of the organization’s Women on the Verge resource group. She received the prestigious Champion of Children Award at a Big Brothers Big Sisters gala event, among numerous other accolades for her community service.
Mendez has been recognized as:
* Leadership Broward Chair Award
* Broward County Diamante Award
* Broward County Commission Excellence in Community Service Award
* Leadership Broward Fun Lunch honoree
* Hispanic Women of Distinction
* 100 Outstanding Women of Broward County
* Woman of Influence by DeVry University/Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce
Biography
A proud mother, grandmother, and Big Sister to a 5-year-old Little named Malaysia (M&M), Mendez embodies the spirit of community service and mentorship.
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