Kaufman Rossin in the Community: OUT Miami Foundation

Leandro Barbuscio of Kaufman Rossin talks about his involvement with OUT Miami Foundation, a community organization focused on improving the lives of LGBTQ individuals.

Which organization are you involved in and what is its objective?

I serve on the Board of Directors at OUT Miami Foundation.  OUT Miami was founded in 2015 to build, engage and strengthen Miami’s LGBTQ community in an effort to promote diversity and inclusion within our city.  OUT Miami engages, educates and inspires philanthropists committed to promoting the rights of LGBTQ individuals in Miami.

Tell us about your role with the organization.

I am a member of the board of directors and I serve as the treasurer.

What prompted you to get involved with this organization?

I decided to get involved because I wanted to give back to the community.  Being a resident of Miami since 1991, I have seen the city evolve and become a world-class city; but I am also able to see that we still have a long way to go as it relates to LGBTQ rights.  I recognize the need for an organization like OUT Miami, which aims to promote community involvement and make a difference in the LGBTQ community. Attending annual meetings taught me how the foundation is effecting impactful change: it has mobilized a significant amount of volunteers, including many young people, and is fostering philanthropy from an early age.

How has Kaufman Rossin contributed to your success with this organization?

The firm is a big believer in giving back to the community and it really supports its employees’ involvement with charities they are passionate about.   Kaufman Rossin has helped me serve on the board by providing generous donations or sponsorships to the foundation, including our latest Jeans Day fundraiser.

What is your advice for others who are thinking about getting involved in the community?

It is very rewarding to know you can make a difference by getting involved in helping a cause you deeply care about.   If you are not sure how to get started,   identifying a need in the community could be the first step.   Every minute of your time or any contribution, small or large, can make a difference in someone’s life.