Maria Soldani

Maria Soldani is a philanthropist and an inspiration to others. For more than three decades, she and her family have supported the mission and work of Hispanic Unity of Florida, (HUF).

Maria Fornias Soldani – a first generation Cuban-American - first encountered segregation in New Orleans in 1960 in, the city that was to be her home during her early adulthood. Upon boarding a bus, a first for her, this young girl of 13 was asked to sit in the back of the bus. This was her introduction to being a minority in America.

        Maria, never forgot that lesson.  And it has guided her life and actions for more than 60 years.

        Her philanthropy had earlier roots in her native Cienfuegos where she was part of her grandparents’ generosity to the town’s fishing families. To this day, when she visits the city, there are residents who re-tell stories about her family and how the support their received made a difference in their lives.

        When Maria, her husband Winn, and children Winn, III and Melissa moved to Pompano Beach in 1970 – the practices of giving and helping others continued – initially in small ways. Her parents, Vicente Fornias and Martha Polo Fornias moved from New Orleans to be near her and they, in return, became volunteers and donors also.  (See photo of the four generations of the Soldani’s on their visit to HUF’s early learning center.) 

        Maria has been an “influencer” since birth.  She mastered the art of introducing others to the privilege, joy and satisfaction of getting involved in the community, affiliating with social services agencies and giving both of her talents as well as financial gifts.

       Maria has also made philanthropy the core of her professional life whether at North Ridge Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Florida or at Holy Cross Hospital. She along with the administrative leaders, her peers and the Sisters, were always “involved” and “present” for the neediest in our community. 

Now as a local minority partner with Paradies-Lagardere which runs a concessions contract at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, she continues to allocate funds for the community for organizations such as HUF.

        HUF is fortunate to have been the recipient of many annual gifts from Maria and her family – whether to honor a friend’s birthday, to remember or honor someone or simply because she is inspired by a client or family in need.

         Maria shared her wisdom about philanthropy:  “It makes me feel rich to give it away! Philanthropy comes in small packages as well as big packages – as long as you give as much as you can, it is in giving that you receive.  My wish is for my adult children, Winn and Melissa, as well as my grandchildren: Zoe, Zack, Lily and Jake is to continue the traditions began before our time, by my grandparents and other family members.  It is the greatest legacy that we can leave behind on this beautiful planet.”

        We are grateful to Maria, for her unwavering support for more than 35 years and for being one of HUF’s most dedicated and passionate ambassador.