Constance Collins

PRESIDENT & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SUNDARI FOUNDATION; LOTUS HOUSE WOMEN’S SHELTER AND SUPPORTING FOUNDATION, LOTUS ENDOWMENT FUND, Miami

Since Collins founded the Lotus House Women’s Shelter nearly 20 years ago, it has sheltered more than 12,000 women. The shelter and its newest facility, Lotus Village, serve as a national model in battling homelessness among women and children, the majority of whom are victims of gender-based violence, abuse and trauma. With her background in law and business, founder Collins has overseen the development, operations, programming, services, research and growth of Lotus House and Lotus Village. Last year the organization began construction of a children’s village in Miami’s Overtown District. The five-story facility will house programs focused on youth education, wellness and special needs.

EDUCATION: Trinity College (BA), University of Colorado (JD)

IF I WERE GOVERNOR: I’d supercharge the development of truly affordable housing for extremely low-income individuals and families, assuring that during inevitable times of transition, everyone is afforded safe, trauma-informed, supportive shelters with enriched resources to end and prevent homelessness. Homelessness is at epidemic levels all across our country.

MENTOR: My greatest mentors have been and continue to be the women, youth and children we shelter at Lotus House and the dedicated team of alumni of our program who give back so selflessly to those who follow in their footsteps.

INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: Martin Margulies, who has so generously given his time, expertise and treasure for Lotus House since its inception, is an inspiration and our hero. A builder-developer, internationally renowned art collector, and philanthropist, he is deeply committed to ensuring women, youth and children are provided a safe haven in Lotus House.