[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 168 (Friday, October 13, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E969]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING MARCELA RESTREPO FOR HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 13, 2023

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, Marcela Restrepo has been a 
professional in the construction industry for more than 24 years. She 
is the co-owner of SkyBuilders USA, general contractors, and co-founder 
of the nonprofit SkyBuilders 4 ALL.
  Marcela has served on several boards through Orange County. She is 
the vice president of Casa de Mexico, a member of the Women Business 
Advisory Board in Seminole College, a former member of the BOD 
Neighborhood Grants Advisory Board in Orange County, and a former 
member of the BOD Community Development Advisory Board in Orange 
County.
  Marcela advocates for minority-owned businesses. She vigorously 
promotes to get certification through seminars that she is invited to 
or through her foundation. Her company was awarded the Don Quijote 
award in 2022 by HCCMO. She was also recognized as Mujer de Impacto 
2023 by Mujer Emprende Latina.
  Marcela loves her community. With SkyBuilders 4 ALL, she created a 
food pantry in one of Orlando's local schools and they provided food 
during the pandemic to families that were struggling. Her foundation 
also provides financial education to young kids and promotes reading.
  Marcela also helps the community through space that the Mexican 
Consulate provides, with financial education for the Hispanic community 
six days a week at no cost. That program counts on about 20 allies, 
including banks, financial institutions, accountants, and realtors all 
working as volunteers.
  Additionally, housing is a priority. With her foundation, she has 
been able to help people in the community improve their way of living. 
Giving back to the community is a must in her life because she wants to 
leave her children, Manuela, Pablo, David, and Ximena, and her grandson 
Valentino, a legacy of pride in their roots. She will continue serving 
as long as God lets her.

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