Sharlles and Marcela have always been inspired to help others – a trait instilled in them early on by their role-model grandparents. In 2020 they established the Abdala & Barrantes Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization named after and dedicated to honoring their grandparents’ legacy.
With a goal of providing essentials and spreading cheer to families living in impoverished communities across North and South America, the Abdala & Barrantes Foundation is on a mission to set up those in need “for a better future.”
Thanks to the generosity of so many, the Abdala & Barrantes Foundation was able to raise more than $70,000 in its first three years and provide assistance to over 1,000 children,
adults and seniors throughout the U.S., Colombia and Brazil.
Colombia
Brazil
USA
We look forward to growing this number and those served exponentially in the years to come!
Marcela Sanabria
Co-Founder
I was born in Bogota, Colombia, where I spent the first part of my life.
I came to America in 2005, where I taught myself to speak English and began a career that would allow me to pursue my dreams. I grew up in a small family, raised by a single mother, and watched how hard she worked to ensure I had the opportunities that she never did. I knew hard work and perseverance would be the keys to my success! I was fortunate to attend Colombia University and earned a degree in Human Resources. Over the past nine years, I've built a career in the real estate industry, and currently work as a Facility Manager for JLL.
Sharlles Menezes
Co-Founder
I grew up in Goiania, Brazil and came to America in August, 1998. I was unable to speak English, but filled with the drive to succeed and achieve the American dream! While I wasn’t able to complete my undergraduate degree at that time, my drive and skill set have allowed me to progress nicely in my career. I spent 16 years with HTH Building Services at Post Properties and another four years with Post Properties in property management. Today, I serve as a Senior Property Manager for Transwestern. I currently live in Marietta, GA with my daughter, Anna Caroline. I achieved my American dream and became a citizen in 2017. I am a firm believer of leading by example, and make it a priority to show my daughter that honesty and hard work will always pay off.