“THERE IS NO FUTURE WITHOUT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION."
TOACCELERATECHANGEANDGLOBALIMPACTBY SUPPORTINGSCIENCE-BASEDCLIMATESOLUTIONS, ENHANCINGEDUCATION,ANDIMPROVINGHEALTH.
VISION
APLANETWHEREALLBEINGSAREENSUREDACCESSTOA SUSTAINABLEANDCLEANENVIRONMENT,HEALTH SERVICES,ANDEDUCATION.
OUR HIST
Our Founders, David S. Vogel a have maintained a personal for many years, largely comp and education programs. As informed and noticed evide environment and climate, they hard questions by funding pro thesemajorissues.
In 2014, David and Thais form David,anMITgraduate,andTha attorney, are the visionaries a Together,theybuiltourteam,b brightest minds and declarin thesetopscientificexpertstow
In2019,Davidandhisteamof to leverage the Foundation’s d to serve new purposes in the Through the health research p extendedtheirfocustolongevit seeking new paths to reduce preventdiseases,andimprove
SMALLACTION, BIGIMPACT
Fromanearlyage,Iinstinctivelyunderstood the importance of taking action. A pivotal childhood experience in Venezuela solidified thisunderstandingandshapedmyfuture.
During my youth, a popular telethon called "TeleradioPabellón"airedannually,featuring celebrities raising funds for Hogar Clínica SanRafael,achildren'sorthopedicclinic.The event captivated the nation with its slogan: "The smile of a healthy child will be your reward."
Watching the show, I was inspired by the unity and energy of the celebrities working towardacommongoal.IrealizedthatevenI, as a child, could contribute to helping other childreninneed.
Withouthesitation,Iemptiedmypiggybank and called to donate. My parents' pride in myactionsreinforcedtheimportanceofthis simpleyetmeaningfulgesture.
THAISLOPEZ VOGEL CO-FOUNDER/TRUSTEE
Although I didn't get to speak with a celebrity,Ifeltpartofsomethinggreater an action that was changing the world for the better.Thisexperienceopenedadoorinmy life that has never closed, instilling in me a lifelong commitment to taking action and makingapositiveimpact.
Today,Icontinuetobeguidedbythatsame spirit, channeling the powerful energy that comesfrommovingintherightdirection.
AHAWAIIAN BOYHOOD
Growing up in Hawaii was an invitation to engage with nature. Skies, mountains, and ocean formed the backdrop of my childhood.IjoinedtheBoyScoutsatage11,a decision that would shape my life. We engaged in service projects restoring benches, cleaning beaches, and spending weekends camping under the stars. These experiencestaughtmethepowerofbuilding andgrowingacommunity.
While living near the Waialae Nui Ridge, one of Hawaii's most breathtaking mountains, I developed a love for hiking at a young age. Thetrailsbecamemyplayground.Fiveyears ago, I found myself on a different mountain, the Koko Crater, carrying buckets of dirt to helprestorethetrail.Itwasexhaustingwork, but the sense of accomplishment and the breathtakingviewsmadeitworthwhile.
DAVIDS.VOGEL CO-FOUNDER/TRUSTEE
Oneofmymostmemorablecontributionswas creating safety rules signs for the shooting range at Punahou School, the same place where President Barack Obama once walked the halls. I took great pride in ensuring the security and well-being of my peers through this initiative, a small way to give back to the communitywhereIwasnurtured.
AsInavigatedtheselife-definingmoments,my father was beside me, significantly influencing mylife.
He was involved in the development of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), a pioneering technology that harnesses the temperature differences in ocean water to generate energy. From the age of six, I was mesmerized by his work. I always had questions for him, looking to understand what he did. Our home was a hub of curiosity and innovation, and my parents' dedication boosted my attachment to sustainability and environmentalresponsibility.
These events shaped who I am today. If I had to define my journey, I would say it has been oneofgrowth,curiosity,andconnectiontothe natural world, thanks to growing up in a privilegedplace.
RobinHoodInvestor’sConference2019
Dr LonnieThompsonandDavidS Vogel,ClimateWeekNYC2023
ClimateCorrectionConference2022
Waimanalo Canoe Club
VERGE Hawaii Energy Conference
This year, the VoLo team attended the VERGE Hawaii Energy Conference, a hub for innovators focused on advancing renewable energy. By learning from leaders at the forefront of this movement, we bolstered our dedication to supporting a sustainable energy future.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
2017 VoLo Partner Program Visits
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital leads the way in understanding, treating, and defeating childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Their mission is to advance cures and prevention methods for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. No family is ever billed for treatment, travel, housing, or food. In 2017, VoLo Foundation's grant helped pave the way for St. Jude to become home to the first proton beam therapy center dedicated solely for children. At their proton beam therapy center, they combine personalized care and the most advanced forms of radiation therapy available to patients
2018
Climate Correction is Born: A New Era in Climate Action
In 2018, we launched the Climate Correction Conference at UCF. Our trustees and our advisory board pivoted to create a climate education event featuring top scientists and faculty. Named after the financial term "correction," the conference focused on mitigating and adapting to climate change The first event was a success, attracting the City of Orlando as an official partner. After the initial years with UCF, VoLo took ownership, committed to growing the conference into a longterm platform for climate action.
The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
Lelt Foundation
The Nature Conservancy has been dedicated to protecting and caring for the environment since 1951. It is continuously working to find solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises our planet faces. As part of its efforts to combat climate change, TNC's LEAF (Leaders in Environmental Action for the Future) Program aims to empower the next generation of conservation advocates. VoLo Foundation's grant to support this environmental education program facilitated their ability to send several students to explore conservation work all over the country as paid interns
Lelt Foundation works with impoverished families in Ethiopia by providing nutritional assistance, educational programs, and employment opportunities VoLo Foundation’s support to Lelt in 2018 provided funding to build one of the only renewable-energy technology labs in Eastern Africa, the VoLo Computer Lab. This facility teaches disadvantaged students advanced IT programming skills and uses alternative energy sources, allowing students to continue their work, even when the power grid falters. Additionally, the progress of the technology provided to students has led to the launch of a new program, Girls Who Code, an intensive learning course for ten of the most advanced technology students.
2019 Climate Correction Conference
In 2019, our one-day Climate Correction conference and expo on October 3 united diverse voices from all walks of life, including top industry experts, researchers, government officials, students, and the public. The event emphasized the urgent need for collaboration on effective climate solutions Highlights included Dr Marshall Shepherd discussing the rise in tropical systems in higher latitudes, Chris Castro, Orlando's Director of Sustainability, unveiling the city's ambitious net-zero plans for 2050, and keynote speaker Vanessa Hauc sharing powerful stories of communities most impacted by climate change.
VoLo VISTA Award Launched
In 2019, we introduced the VoLo VISTA Award to celebrate student-led initiatives that bring innovative climate solutions to Florida and beyond. Initially intended for one winner, both public and scientific votes led to two projects receiving $10,000 each: Marbelys Garriga’s "Hybridizing Florida's Coastline" from Florida International University and Sarah Swiersz and Mohsina Mahmood’s "Food Waste Recovery System" from the University of Central Florida. As our latest recognition for exemplary student leadership in Vision, Innovation, Sustainability, Technology, and Action, the VISTA Award continues in 2024, with VoLo’s co-founders selecting the project that best advances climate solutions in Florida
IDEAS For Us
This Orlando-based grassroots nonprofit is advancing global environmental solutions through local action. In 2019, VoLo's grant supported their Fleet Farming Program which transforms the average American lawn into biodiverse, productive micro-farms and edible gardens. With its headquarters located in Parramore, a federally recognized food desert and "Promise Zone," IDEAS For Us is working to educate the next generation on sustainable urban farming to combat climate change. Additionally, since 2018, Fleet Farming has worked with K-12 schools to launch programs that will benefit the community around food, farming, entrepreneurship, and healthy eating.
Mi Familia Vota / Mi Familia en Acción
Amplio
2019 VoLo Team
VoLo Foundation supports Amplio's Talking Book audio device which enables governments and development organizations to provide access to information in hard-to-reach communities They are on a mission to reach the world's most vulnerable communities through this inclusive digital technology. There are nearly 800 million people who cannot read or write With the Talking Book, people can play messages in their local language on-demand and record feedback. In September 2019, the UN Secretary-General called on all sectors of society to mobilize for a decade of action for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs”). Through partnerships with UNESCO, the World Bank, UNICEF, and others, Amplio aims to reach 10 million people in the next 10 years to help achieve the UN SDGs
2020
2020 Annual Report
2020: A Year of Virtual Impact and Unwavering Commitment
In 2020, despite working from home due to the pandemic, our team expanded and continued to make a significant impact. We supported 49 programs, including many focused on COVID-19 response. The pandemic underscored the urgent need for climate action, revealing it as a “dress rehearsal” for future challenges Recognizing the growing evidence of climate change and its effects, we remained steadfast in our commitment, supporting our nonprofit partners and addressing altered needs. We took decisive steps to promote climate solutions and monitor the impact of air pollution on global public health, reinforcing our dedication to both immediate and long-term environmental and health initiatives.
We actively participated in numerous virtual events, adapting to the challenges of the global pandemic. These platforms allowed us to continue our mission, engaging with global leaders, experts, and communities on critical issues related to climate change and public health Despite the distance, we remained connected and committed, using these sessions to drive meaningful conversations, share insights, and foster collaboration. Our participation in these virtual forums demonstrated our resilience and dedication to advancing climate solutions during a time of unprecedented global disruption.
“Thekeytoimprovedhealthandlongevityliesinabetter understandingofthedatainourbodies.Anabundanceof groundbreakingresearchisnowtakingplaceduetoimproved technologyandthedecreasingcostofobtainingactionable dataonourselves.Asadata-orientedorganization,ourroleis toacceleratethisknowledgethroughfundingand collaborationwithresearchgroupsengagedatkeyinflection pointsofdata-drivensolutionstoourmostcritical,unresolved healthchallenges.”
–DavidS.Vogel
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®
The CLEO Institute (CLEO)
Founded in 2010, The CLEO Institute exists for the sole purpose of building climate literacy and spurring climate action. Working with multiple local organizations, university scientists, and other local leaders, CLEO is viewed as the go-to regional source for credible, vetted climate science, and expert insights into current and projected climate change impacts. In 2020, with the support of VoLo Foundation, CLEO partnered with the Union of Concerned Scientists, the Miami-based agency, Zubi Advertising, and award-winning artist Bob Partington to create the Melting Florida campaign, which aimed to raise awareness in our community about how rapidly rising temperatures are affecting the state’s wildlife and people. The melting wax sculptures were an artistic metaphor for the toll human-caused climate change is taking on Florida’s wildlife and people. The campaign, garnering the support of several elected Florida leaders, was featured in hundreds of media outlets, including CNN, Univision, Fox, and many others
Thais Lopez Vogel: Named One of the 100 Most Influential Latinos in Climate Action for 2020
In 2020, VoLo Foundation’s co-founder and climate advocate Thais Lopez Vogel was honored as one of the “100 Most Influential Latinos Committed to Climate Action” by Sachamama, a leading organization mobilizing the Latino community for environmental justice. This recognition highlighted Thais’ dedication to raising awareness about climate change and promoting sustainable solutions Reflecting on the acknowledgment, she stated, “This recognition inspires me to continue educating communities and empowering them to act. Climate change is happening now, and there is no future without environmental education "
Thais was also featured on the same list in 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2024, underscoring her ongoing leadership in mobilizing climate action Her consistent advocacy has helped spotlight the Latino community's role in driving solutions for a sustainable future, showing that education and action are key to addressing the planet’s most pressing challenges. Being featured four times affirms Thais’ place as a pivotal leader in the fight for climate justice and environmental advocacy.
2020 VoLo Team
2021
Birth of Florida Climate Week
Pioneering Climate Action in the Sunshine State
launched Florida Climate Week (FCW) to address ou state’s climate vulnerability. Due to the globa pandemic, FCW was held exclusively as a virtual even that year. However, starting in 2023, we introduced in person activities, which have been a great success. week-long series continues to bring together lead experts, and advocates to raise awareness and d solutions for a sustainable Florida. We are espec grateful for the widespread support, as numerous c across Florida have proclaimed Florida Climate W year after year. Supported by speakers, organizati and local governments, our initiative offers both live virtual components, with our website serving as a hub for collaboration and connection
Debut of Climate Correction: The Podcast
p , y Maganiezin. Initially releasing episodes bi-weekly, the show now offers exclusive monthly content featuring insightful conversations with scientists, journalists, policymakers, climate experts Guests from renowned organizations such The CLEO Institute, Ocean Conservancy, NRDC, and EDF sh their perspectives on the challenges of adapting to mitigating climate change while highlighting effec solutions already in action. Through these engag discussions, the podcast aims to inform and empo listeners to recognize the profound impacts of climate cha on our daily lives and to inspire meaningful participation creating a sustainable future.
115
Episodes
Subscribers
16,132
Nicklaus Children's Hospital
This top-ranked children's hospital, founded in 1950, has been inspiring hope and promoting lifelong health by providing exceptional care to every child. It has remained dedicated to providing amazing care to the community and continues to lead the way in innovation and excellence. In 2021, VoLo Foundation committed to helping finance The Heart Program at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, now called The Heart Institute, and supporting extraordinary pediatric surgical treatments. These efforts are ongoing with their newly built operating rooms in the five-story tower, including the "VoLo Foundation Cardiac and Neurology Floor."
The Ohio State University
In partnership with The Ohio State University, VoLo Foundation supported the scientific research conducted by the Ice Core Paleoclimatology group at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center. This collaboration facilitated ice core drilling projects and analysis, student participation in the research, and long-term storage of the ice, all under the direction of Drs Lonnie G Thompson and Ellen MosleyThompson.
The Ice Core Paleoclimatology group has a distinguished history of conducting cutting- edge science, extending ice coring beyond polar regions to ice fields atop the highest tropical and subtropical mountains. Their aim is to collect a global array of ice cores, providing high-resolution climatic and environmental histories to enhance our understanding of the complex interactions within the Earth's coupled climate system.
Wynwood Plog Run
2021 VoLo Team
2021 Annual Report
2021 was a year of positive impact, as the world recovered from COVID-19, the urgency of addressing climate change became more apparent. VoLo Foundation launched the Climate Correction podcast to connect audiences with environmental experts and solutions for reducing carbon footprints. Our fully virtual Florida Climate Week and Climate Correction conference, held from April 19-23, featured over 133 speakers and drew more than 1,200 attendees, focusing on impactful climate solutions.
2021 VoLo Holiday Party
SYNAPSE Conference
Our co-founder, Thais Lopez Vogel, participated as a speaker at the 2021 Synapse Orlando, which took place on Friday, October 15, 2021, at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando, Florida. During the “Morning Keynote: Experience Orlando” panel, Thais shared insights on the VoLo VISTA Award, which recognizes graduate students working on projects to achieve bold improvements in Florida’s climate goals and presented a $10,000 check to the 2021 Vista Award winning project. She also took part in the panel “How to Innovate Your Business for Greater Sustainability” with fellow leaders in sustainable technology, highlighting how organizations and sectors across the region can partner to develop innovative climate solutions.
CLIMATE CORRECTION
2022 Climate Correction™ Conference CONFERENCE 20 22
In partnership with the environmental nonprofit, We Are Neutral, the gathering was a zero-emissions event held at Universal Orlando's Loews Royal Pacific Resort, a Florida Green Lodging facility, ensuring we offset our carbon footprint. th
In 2022, VoLo Foundation hosted the 4 annual Climate Correction conference in Orlando, solidifying it as the premier climate action forum in the United States. This year's focus was on "Sustainable Food: Powered by Climate Smart Solutions." Over two days, the program featured 26 speakers, a panel in Spanish, and interactive exhibits on topics such as climate-smart agriculture, carbon neutrality, and climate change adaptation.
Meet Vida: Our Mascot for a Brighter, Greener Future
In 2022, VoLo Foundation introduced Vida, our beloved mascot, to help engage audiences in a fresh and playful way Vida, who lives in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, works alongside us to raise awareness about the planet’s needs and feelings. Equipped with binoculars and skates, Vida embarks on adventures to investigate environmental challenges, bringing back discoveries to share with the world. Fluent in English and Spanish, with a passion for learning other cultures and languages, Vida embodies VoLo’s mission of promoting global consciousness and inclusivity.
Curiosity, energy, and commitment make our spokesperson the perfect ambassador, especially for the young, as Vida guides the next generation toward a more sustainable future. Vida’s creation represents VoLo Foundation's innovative approach to connecting with people of all ages and backgrounds in the fight against climate change.
2022 VoLo Team
2022 Annual Report
In 2022, VoLo Foundation's work was defined by one word: ACTION. Recognizing the urgent need to address environmental deterioration, we concentrated on advancing immediate change in both public and private sectors. With Florida one of the most climate-impacted regions as our primary focus, we supported over 106 organizations, 70 of which are in Florida, and partnered with innovative programs in environmental, educational, and health sectors Our efforts amplified our voice by expanding our Climate Correction podcast and launching its Spanish version, Corrección Climática. We also saw a significant increase in social media engagement and media coverage. The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022 was a pivotal moment, reinforcing our optimism and determination to continue driving impactful climate action.
2022 VoLo Events
2022 VoLo Holiday Party
2023
Syrena x the Ocean Fashion Show
CLIMATE CORRECTION CONFERENCE 20 23
2023 Climate Correction™ Conference
The 5th annual Climate Correction conference to place on March 3, 2023, in Orlando, marking a pivotal moment for collaboration between science and policy. It welcomed 225 attendees and featured 32 influential speakers representing institutions such as the Organization of American States, WWF, and the World Bank. The event highlighted the multifaceted impacts of climate change, including health, migration, and economic effects
Under the theme "Pathways to Action," discussions centered on solutions like the Inflation Reduction Act and the growing affordability of solar energy for hurricane-affected communities. In this context, VoLo Foundation emphasized the urgent need for crossdisciplinary cooperation to address climate challenges in Florida featuring a climate art mural that serves as a compelling reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the planet.
VoLo Foundation Presents Climate Awareness Mural in Orlando
In March 2023, VoLo Foundation reached a significant milestone in its mission to raise climate change awareness by unveiling a stunning mural by renowned TIME Pieces artist Allison Dayka in downtown Orlando
This vibrant artwork, depicting a bear named “Future” navigating a world transformed by climate crisis, serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the planet
The creation, a focal point in the city’s bustling heart, embodies the urgency of addressing environmental challenges and inspires action through its powerful visual message. As Thais Lopez Vogel, co-founder of VoLo Foundation, emphasized, “It is not a red or blue issue, it is a green issue,” underscoring the universal need for environmental action This launch, held in conjunction with the 5th Annual Climate Correction conference, exemplifies VoLo's commitment to integrating art with advocacy, fostering a deeper connection to sustainability, and galvanizing community and global efforts to combat ecological degradation.
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
VoLo Foundation supports John D MacArthur Beach State Park's mission to safeguard its 436 acres of diverse and undisturbed subtropical coastal habitat from development. This preserve, established in 1989, provides students in grades 1-12 to visit and take part in the Environmental Education Programs. These programs offer future environmentalists, scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and many more with hands-on learning experiences at the site. Students can learn about natural habitats in their community, how to protect our planet, and methods to act as conservation advocates.
Water People Theater
Water People Theater is an inclusive, bilingual, Latino nonprofit theatrical organization devoted to igniting change using performance art. They engage audiences in social and environmental issues to encourage individuals to embrace values that promote betterment for the planet and empower change in communities
VoLo Foundation supports Water People Theater in their goal to develop high-quality professionals and foster better human beings through the reinforcement of social values in children and adolescents using theater, as well as their commitment to achieving a more just society.
Luca Martinez
2023 VoLo Events
2023
VoLo Holiday Party
2023
2023 Annual Report | A Year of Growth
In 2023, VoLo Foundation expanded its reach and deepened its understanding of the complexities of the environmental crisis, while uncovering countless innovative solutions. Over the past year, we amplified the voices of those most affected by climate change, from women and children to migrants, and addressed its impact on human health. We also empowered activism, fostered educational programs, and explored new avenues such as fashion and film, using these unexpected platforms to further the mission. Through initiatives like the Climate Correction conference and Florida Climate Week, we continued building connections with individuals and organizations committed to sustainability. As public interest in climate action soared, our presence in the media grew, inspiring more people to join the movement.
VoLo Team
Climate Correction™ 2024 Multiplied Knowledge to Create Change
In 2024, VoLo Foundation celebrated a decade of impactful climate action with its sixth Climate Correction conference, reinforcing its commitment to fostering solutions and sparking change. Held in Orlando, the event gathered nearly 300 attendees offering sessions in both English and Spanish, along with an inspiring art exhibition that connected creativity to climate solutions.
Topics ranged from the mental health impacts of climate disasters to the surge in clean energy job opportunities, emphasizing the diverse challenges and opportunities ahead Co-founders David S Vogel and Thais Lopez Vogel reflected on the significance of milestone, stressing that this is just the beginning o continuous conversation about climate act solutions, and the future we must build together.
Florida Climate Week™ 2024: A Call to Action Amidst Crisis
This year ’ s events underscored the urgent need for action against climate change, especially in the wake of Hurricane Milton's devastation. While the storm disrupted some inperson gatherings, over 600 participants engaged in 37 virtual sessions that tackled pressing issues such as mangrove conservation, sea level rise, and access to clean energy for low-income communities.
VoLo Foundation's campaign to gather proclamations recognizing Florida Climate Week from local governments resulted in about 55 municipalities signing on, highlighting the critical need for broader participation to foster statewide progress. Sessions led by organizations like Sachamama and The Nature Conservancy emphasized the importance of community involvement and education in driving meaningful transformation. As we reflect on this impactful week, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering Floridians to confront the escalating impacts of climate change, advocating for a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
2024 Syrena Fashion Show
In 2024, VoLo Foundation further expanded its commitment to raising climate change awareness by sponsoring Syrena Swimwear's "Fashion with Conscience" showcase. Held at The Temple House in Miami Beach, the gathering highlighted designer Mila Miskovic's eco-conscious swimwear collection, blending style with sustainability. VoLo Foundation's support underscored the importance of addressing the ecological impact of the fashion industry, aligning with its mission to promote responsible resource use and reduce waste. The evening's immersive beach-themed experience and artwork by Clean Miami Beach’s Sophie Ringel served as powerful reminders of the urgent need for sustainability in all sectors, making the event a memorable celebration of art, fashion, and environmental advocacy.
University of California, Berkeley Foundation
At the University of California Berkeley, Dr Lisa Barcellos is spearheading efforts to develop a new comprehensive study investigating the effects of wildfire smoke exposure on the epigenome and health in a multi-ethnic cohort Epigenetic mechanisms are believed to play a central role not only as relevant elements of pathogenic mechanisms in human health and disease but also as mediators of the body adaptation to environmental stimuli, such as air pollutants from exposure to wildfires. VoLo Foundation values this research recognizing the increasing understanding that the environment plays a significant role in human health and disease
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Priyanka Belbase,Ivan and Jordan Prats
2024 VoLo Events
PADDLING,PERSEVERANCE ANDFRIENDSHIP
Growing up in Honolulu, I always felt a connection to Oahu. I graduated from Punahou School in 1991 and visit my parents every summer. During one of these trips,IstayedinahomeabovetheWaimanaloCanoe Club LittledidIknowthisplacewouldchallengemein unexpectedways
Canoeing had been a memory from my high school days, so seeing the sleek, traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoes gliding through the waters of WaimanaloBaystirredsomethingwithinme.Eagerto reconnectwiththesport,Iwentdowntothecluband askedifIcouldjoinasession.
DAVIDS.VOGEL CO-FOUNDER/TRUSTEE
The seasoned paddlers eyed me with curiosity and skepticism,recognizingmeasa“haole,”anon-native. They decided to test my resolve, handing me the heaviest,slowest,andhardestcanoetorow.
Undeterred, I accepted the challenge They watched, expecting me to give up, but I didn’t. By overcoming the challenge, I was welcomed into their Ohana (family). This camaraderie blossomed into a deep friendship,extendingbeyondtheshoresofWaimanalo Bay.
MyinvolvementwiththeWaimanaloCanoeClubgrew,
and I proposed a sponsorship for them from VoLo Foundation Since our organization focuses on sustainabilityandcommunityenrichment,wefound a perfect match in the canoe club for our organizationalgoals,withitsstrongtiestoHawaiian cultureandenvironmentalstewardship.
Together, we aim to preserve the coastal ecosystem,supportyouthprograms,andpromote culturalheritage Thepartnershipthrived,rootedin mutual appreciation and a shared vision for the future.
Everysummer,Ireturntotheisland,notjusttoseemyparentsbuttopaddlewithmyohana.What startedasasimpledesiretorowhasgrownintosomethingfarmoremeaningful atestamentto perseverance,friendship,andtheenduringspiritofaloha.
AUTOPIANLEGACY
Theclearskiesandsparklingstarsremindmeofmy childhood, especially the mesmerizing tales my father told me. He was a nature-loving wanderer and an imaginative storyteller who spun stories about Osiris, a utopian planet from which he claimedtobe.
Osiris was depicted as a harmonious world with crystal-clear rivers, iridescent flowers, and architecturalwondersintegratedwithnature.
The Osirians, lovers of the arts and guardians of nature,expressedtheirbondwiththeenvironment
through music, dance, and other creative endeavors.
Inhisstories,myfather'sloveforEarthsurpassedhis admirationforOsiriswhenhearrivedhere,inspiring himtoexploreandcareforourplanet.
Hebecamemymentor,instillingaprofoundrespect for the natural world and a love for the arts. His influence ultimately led me to establish a foundation promoting sustainability, nature conservation,andartisticexpressionacrossvarious fields,includingtheater,film,andfashion
THAISLOPEZ VOGEL CO-FOUNDER/TRUSTEE
Standingonthebalconywiththestarsoverhead,Ifeeldeeplygratefulformyfather'slegacy.His talesofOsirisfueledmychildhooddreamsandcontinuetoguidemyadultlife,shapingmyaimto workfortheworldIlivein,whichisfarmorewonderfulthanmybelovedOsiris.
ASHAREDJOURNEYINTO OURBELIEFS
At VoLo Foundation, our team is more than just a group of remarkable professionals; we are a family bound together by our shared passion and commitmenttoclimateaction.
Cheering each other on is the bond that holds us together, boosting our drive to make a difference in the world. We work on what we believe in and love, and this common purpose makes our hierarchy truly horizontal,wheretheword"team"isn'tjustaconcept it’s a lived reality Each of us brings a unique set of skills and expertise, creating a dynamic environment where collaboration, communication, and the exchangeofideasflowfreely.
We keep ourselves informed, building partnerships andalliancesthatamplifyourimpact
Ourdeepcommitmenttoclimateactionstemsfroma profound love for our families, the communities we belongto,andtheplaceswecallhome.Together,we strive to protect what is cherished most, and that’s whatmakesourworknotjustajob,butameaningful mission.
CELEBRATINGVoLo'S PARTNERSHIPS
AtVoLoFoundation,webelievethatthestrengthofour impactliesinthepowerofcollaboration.Theproverb, “Ifyouwanttogofast,goalone.Ifyouwanttogofar, go together,” perfectly captures the spirit of our partnerships.Ouralliesnotonlyechoourmissionand vision, but they amplify it, turning ideas into tangible actionsthatdrivereal,lastingchange.
Every time we receive updates from our partners, we are reminded of the profound and positive impact theyaremaking.Thesestoriesarethelifebloodofthe difference we seek to create. Together, we are addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century: climate change, education, humanitarianaid,andhealth.
Each program and partnership under the VoLo umbrella is a testament to the power of diverse, multifaceted approaches. Whether it’s through innovative solutions to combat climate change, transformative educational initiatives, or critical humanitarian and health support, our partners bring realchangetothetable.Itisthroughtheirdedication and our shared commitment that we can move the needleonissuesthatmattermost
As we look ahead, we are inspired by the collective progresswe’vemadeandthepotentialthatlieswithin continued collaboration. Together, with our partners, we are not just envisioning a better future we are buildingit.
INSIGHTSOFOURFIRSTDECADE
As the year that marks our tenth anniversary wraps up, it’s a moment to reflect on the insights and learningsthathaveshapedourjourney.
We cherish the powerful impact of having the right team Thecombinationofdiverseskillsanddedicated individuals doesn’t merely add up—it multiplies exponentially. The synergy created by the perfect blend of people transforms a group into a real powerhouse.
Fosteringasafeandsupportiveenvironmentiscrucial for unleashing each team member’s full potential. When people feel secure and valued, they are more inclined to showcase their best abilities A clear and compelling goal acts as a catalyst, setting actions in motionanddrivingcollectivesuccess.
Ourgrowthhasbeendeeplyrootedinourawareness. Bykeenlyidentifyingproblems,activists,andsolutions, we’ve positioned ourselves to lead and coordinate effectiveinitiatives.
Perhaps one of the most humbling realizations is the immense power of small actions At first glance, they mayseeminsignificant,butwhenviewedthroughthe lens of a decade, these minimal shifts have culminated in a resounding impact and lasting change.
"OURJOURNEYTOAGREENERTOMORROW STARTSWITHFOOTSTEPSOFMINDFULLIVING."
-Thais López Vogel
10 YEARS OF GRANTS AND FINANCIAL IMPACT WHEREWEGIVE
$32,747,527.00
$63,743,183.00 93
M O R E T H A N GRANTS AWARDED IN TOTAL $32.7M ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT
177 S U P P O R T E D PROGRAMS IN 10 YEARS
$19.3M OF THE PAST 10 YEARS BUDGET
F L O R I D A SUPPORTS
$48M OF THE PAST DECADE BUDGET U S A SUPPORTS WHERE WE GIVE
53% UNITED STATES
MOVINGFORWARD,FORESEEINGA BETTERFUTURE
Looking back on ten years of committed effort, we envisionafuturewheretheresultsofourworkwillbe evident everywhere. The struggles we ' ve overcome have fostered a heightened awareness among people, who are now not only more conscious of the issues at hand but also eager to learn and ready to takeaction.
Governments are increasingly incorporating climate issuesintotheirlong-termplans,expandingthescope oflegislativeandexecutiveactions.Thisnormalization of climate-focused governance is the direct result of yearsofperseverancebypioneersinthefield. M th hild h th
into leadership roles within their communities and cities. For them, climate awareness will be a core principle.Thisgenerationalshiftpromisesasmoother path forward, with a new wave of leaders who inherentlyvaluesustainability.
The emergence of a more favorable landscape presentsanopportunitytopushevenfurther Wehave laidthefoundation,andwearemoredeterminedthan evertoexpandourreachanddeepenourimpact.The journey ahead is one of continued commitment, where we will give nothing less than 100% to achieve thesustainablefuturewehavealwaysenvisioned.
THANK YOU
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey with VoLo Foundation. From our partners and supporters to the communities we serve, your commitmenttoabetter,moresustainablefuturehasbeenthedrivingforcebehind ourprogress.
Together, we have made remarkable strides toward addressing climate change, empowering individuals, and creating meaningful change. Yet, this is only the beginning.
Thankyouforbelievinginourmission,foryourcollaboration,andforinspiringusto continuepushingforward.Here'stothenextchapter,filledwithhope,action,anda sharedvisionforathrivingworld.
@jconthecamera
AlejandroDelgado Editor-in-Chief
Photography
StephanieOrtegaPowery CreativeDirectorandDesigner
CarlosRoa Writer,SeniorPressandPRDirector
ElyseMary JuniorEditor
