Today we’d like to introduce you to Thais Lopez Vogel.
Hi Thais, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born in Caracas, Venezuela. I am a lawyer, wife, and mother of 6, and together with my husband David S. Vogel, I am co-founder and trustee of VoLo Foundation. VoLo was founded to help those in need in terms of health and education, but after analyzing the scientific data related to the climate, we realized that the greatest threat to future generations is the climate crisis. A growing concern for the future of our children inspired me to work towards the solutions to global warming and has let me be recognized in the group of the “One Hundred Most Influential Latinos Committed to Climate Action” for 2020 and 2021.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been an exciting journey, and passion paves any road to make it feel smooth, as we are in love with our endeavor and fueled to achieve our goals. Other than that, there are struggles every day, but I welcome them. I believe that overcoming challenges brings rewards that are filled with joy.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
VoLo foundation is a private family foundation. My husband and I combined our last names Vogel-Lopez and created VoLo. We work to accelerate global change and impact by supporting science-based climate solutions, education, and improving health. Our vision is a planet where all beings are ensured access to a sustainable and clean environment, health services, and education.
We have no political affiliation; we don’t fundraise from anyone. We only ask people to educate themselves on these pressing issues of the climate crisis by visiting our website, our social media, and listening to our podcasts -in Spanish and English-.
VoLo is focused on developing and sharing knowledge through facts and data that accelerate positive global change. Through original research and analysis and in collaboration with philanthropic and academic partners, we aim to enrich the lives of individuals, strengthen communities, and educate future generations. In simple words, VoLo is the bridge between scientists and the people.
We support programs that generate measurable, meaningful, and sustainable results.
Our activism is centered on philanthropy, understanding it as the allocation of resources to solve the needs of the community.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I am not a friend of relying on good luck because -if it exists- it is absolutely out of my control. The same goes for bad luck. I prefer to ask myself what I did right or wrong, so I can do better next time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.volofoundation.org
- Instagram: @volofoundation
- Facebook: VoLo Foundation
- Twitter: @VoLoFoundation
- Youtube: VoLo Foundation
Image Credits
JC Campos
Cox Science Center and Aquarium
