Fisher House Foundation Manager of Human Resources, Irnaliz Aquino, has an immense appreciation for the military and military families. Her father and grandfather were in the military, and her brother continues to serve. Irnaliz grew up near a military base at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, where she participated in many activities on the military installation including JROTC. Now, as a mother of two, she understands the challenges military families face and is proud of the role she plays in supporting them. Irnaliz holds a bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management and, in her position at Fisher House Foundation, is responsible for the management and coordination of the HR Department. She ensures the daily operational activities of the Foundation run smoothly and efficiently, and the Foundation staff are taken care of so they can focus on their responsibilities. She began her work with Fisher House almost five years ago, but her connection reaches back to the 1990's when her grandfather received treatment for cancer at Walter Reed. Her father and aunt stayed in one of the first Fisher Houses in Bethesda, Maryland. One of Irnaliz's favorite events to help with is the family program for Warrior Games. She has assisted with planning of the welcome night and other events for two Warrior Games. The first was in 2018 in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the second in 2019 in Tampa Bay, Florida. She is looking forward to helping at the next Warrior Games this fall. She is always willing to lend a hand outside of her regular work because it makes her feel even more connected to service members, veterans, and their families. "I think that's one of the things that I love to do at Fisher House, just going out and being able, not only to do my job, but to help and assist others," said Irnaliz. "I think Warrior Games is one of the most inspiring events and opportunities that I have been able to be a part of, honestly. It's something that I can bring back and let others know of the amazing things that people can do and what we can do to help others as well." When Irnaliz learned that a Fisher House was requested near her home in Puerto Rico, she immediately volunteered to be part of the planning team. She has already used her bilingual skills during an initial trip to the island in 2019. The Puerto Rico Fisher House is still a couple of years away from being built, but once it is operational, it will support the Veterans Affairs Caribbean Health Care System in San Juan. This healthcare system supports more than 150,000 veterans in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is the only one of its type in the Caribbean. "Having a Fisher House in Puerto Rico will mean so much to the vast veteran population and their families located in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands," she said. "This will certainly bring joy and hope for families to be able to be together with their loved ones while they are receiving medical care which they need so much. I am honored to be part of this Fisher House project and I couldn't be more excited about this wonderful opportunity that will provide help and support for our military veterans in my beautiful Puerto Rico!"
Meet the Staff: Irnaliz Aquino
Recent Social Media
So excited for @graceofamilitarychildandlife to continue sharing her story! We are proud to serve service, veterans, and their families now and always!! #Milkids #FisherHouse #homeawayfromhome #militaryfamily #veterans #family #familysloveisgoodmedicine
3 hours ago FacebookTraveling the #Roadto100 has been an adventure, and we are almost there! Construction of the 100th Fisher House has begun at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center located in North Chicago, Illinois. Not only is this a huge milestone, but…
4 hours ago FacebookRoad to 100
16 hours ago FacebookWe are proud to support service members, veterans AND their families. Did you know we have a search engine for scholarships? You and your family's service to our country qualifies you for unique funding opportunities. We'll help you find the best matches…
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1 day ago FacebookThis month the Defense Commissary Agency is having a drawing contest for military kids in honor of the Month of the Military Child!! All month long, their campaign "Spreading Joy Around the World" is accepting art from children in grades PreK-12!! Military…
2 days ago FacebookThis Month of the Military Child we are excited to share the story of Gracie Burgess! Gracie and her sister stayed at the Fisher House while her dad recovered from injuries sustained after stepping on an IED while serving in Afghanistan. At the time, she…
3 days ago FacebookHappy Purple Up Day! 💜 Today, we honor and show our support for military kids all around the world. We are excited to have Gracie Burgess, former Fisher House Guest, share her experience as a military kid! Stay tuned!! @graceofamilitarychildandlife…
4 days ago FacebookHappy Purple Up Day! 💜 Today, we honor and show our support for military kids all around the world. Wear your purple and share photos of you and your favorite military kid in the comments! #PurpleUpDay #MilitaryKids #SupportOurTroops 🌟🎉
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