NAPLES, Fla. (June 24, 2021) – Marie Hernandez Rubenstein has been named director of philanthropy for The Immokalee Foundation.
In her role, Hernandez Rubenstein’s primary focus is on the identification, advancement and solicitation of major and planned gifts for the organization. Additionally, she is responsible for cultivating new donors and raising awareness of the foundation’s mission.
With five years of experience in the humanitarian field, Hernandez Rubenstein most recently served as the advancement and events manager at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, where she helped raise over $2.5 million in the last two years through the museum’s annual gala, Night at the Museum. She previously has been involved with the STARability Foundation, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, co-chaired the American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball in Fort Myers, and served on committees for various other humanitarian and environmental philanthropic endeavors. Hernandez Rubenstein was recognized as one of Gulfshore Life’s notable 40 Under 40 in 2021. A Naples resident and mother of three young boys, she is also an advocate for families with autism in the Southwest Florida community. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and marketing from Emory University.
“Ensuring children have access to pathways that lead to a strong education platform is important to me,” said Hernandez Rubenstein. “The Immokalee Foundation does just that. We ensure that every child in our program has access to the tools he or she needs to succeed in their journey. I’m excited to be a part of such an impactful organization in our community.”
The Immokalee Foundation’s vice president of philanthropy, Melissa Phillips, added, “I am honored and thrilled that Marie has joined The Immokalee Foundation family. Marie brings a depth of knowledge to our team – and a dedication to our students – that will have a profound effect on The Immokalee Foundation and our mission.”
The Immokalee Foundation provides a range of education programs that focus on building pathways to professional careers through support, mentoring and tutoring, and life skills development leading to economic independence. To learn more about The Immokalee Foundation including becoming a mentor, its signature events, volunteering as a career panel speaker or host, making a donation, or including the foundation in your estate plans, or for additional information, call 239-430-9122 or visit immokaleefoundation.org.
