Marie-Ilene is the proud mother of 2 adult children, daughter Christina who is married and lives in California and son Thomas. Since her son’s diagnosis of autism in 1994, Marie-Ilene has spearheaded many programs supporting those with autism and their families including the first Autism Speaks Walk in 2000, and the inaugural annual fundraising event “Tropical Nights” for UMCARD (University of Miami & Related Disabilities) She was appointed to the City of Coral Gables Disability Affairs Advisory Board and served on the UMCARD Constituency Board.  As a passionate community volunteer, she has actively served on many fundraising committees including the American Red Cross of Greater Miami, Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens, and the Young Patronesses of the Opera. She and her husband are members of the United Way Tocqueville Society and are Stewards of the Village of Casa Familia’s Founder’s Society. 

Born in Chile and raised on Long Island, New York, Marie-Ilene graduated from the University of Miami with a BA in Spanish and Latin American Studies.  She retired after 35 years as a residential Realtor to dedicate full time attention to Casa Familia.    Over the years, she has received many community awards and honors including the Coral Gables Community Foundation Philanthropy Award, the Red Cross Spectrum Award for Women, Splendor in the Garden Fairchild Philanthropy Award, and the UMCARD Autism Advocacy Award and the Community Leadership Award. 

Inspired by Thomas and together with Karin Jawitz, Marie-Ilene and her husband Tom co-founded Casa Familia, helping guide their shared vision to create this important innovative housing community. Presently serving as Legacy Board member and Chair of Nominating and Governance, Marie-Ilene’s many years of community leadership and advocacy have been invaluable in turning their dream for a loving home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities into a reality.