Some people find their way to philanthropy through a résumé. Andrea Lugo found hers through a soccer field.
Growing up in a community where organizations and local resources were a lifeline, Andrea watched her father build a soccer club for neighborhood kids from the ground up; funded entirely by donations, fundraisers, and the generosity of volunteers who showed up simply because they cared. That experience left a mark. “Seeing the impact that generosity and community support can have on people’s lives shaped who I am today,” she says.
It’s that foundation (quite literally built on giving) that Andrea brings to Women in Philanthropy as our newest Club Treasurer.
A Journey Guided by Good People
Andrea is quick to credit the people who’ve helped shape her path. A mentor who became a close friend over the years has been a steady presence in both her professional and personal life — and, as it turns out, the reason she found her way to organized philanthropy at all. “Without his guidance and encouragement, I may never have found my way to Women in Philanthropy,” she reflects.
It’s a reminder of just how far a single relationship can reach, and a value Andrea now carries forward as she steps into a leadership role of her own.
Building Something From the Ground Up
Ask Andrea what she’s most excited about in her first year, and she’ll tell you it’s not just the volunteering or the impact, it’s the journey itself. “We’re building something from the ground up, and there’s something special about being part of that from the very beginning,” she says. She’s looking forward to watching relationships form, momentum build, and seeing just how far this community can go together.
Get to Know Andrea
When she’s not crunching numbers or championing community causes, Andrea is almost certainly feeding people. Her cinnamon rolls are amazing (Maddie & Maddie can vouch for this!) and she loves any excuse to bring people together around a meal. Her music taste, meanwhile, is a little harder to pin down: she’ll go from System of a Down to Bad Bunny without missing a beat, and honestly, we respect it.
We’re so glad to have Andrea’s passion, perspective, and financial stewardship in our corner. Welcome to the team!