Meet three inspiring women whose philanthropic spirit shines as brightly as their style. Each embodies the spirit of giving while expressing a personal style that reflects their personality, values, and commitment to making a difference. From favorite community events to the icons who influence their wardrobes, they share how fashion and philanthropy intersect in their lives.
Cristina Lewis
A longtime Boca Raton resident, Cristina has devoted her time to children’s and women’s causes, including Sweet Dream Makers and the Go Pink Challenge. Known for her thoughtful, classic style with playful touches, she shows how giving back and personal expression can go hand in hand.
What inspires you to stay involved in philanthropic events throughout the season?
I’ve always embraced a philosophy I share with my mentor, Suzy Broad, executive director of Sweet Dream Makers: “Why can’t we have fun while doing good?” That motto keeps me motivated. When you pair hard work and giving with the fun and creativity of Boca’s unique events, it turns philanthropy into a true joy.
Which community events or causes are closest to your heart, and why?
Boca Raton has always been my home. My husband was born here, I attended college here (Go Owls!), and we’ve raised our family and built our lives in this community. I’ve always felt a personal—and moral—obligation to give back to the place that has given me so much. Over the years, I’ve supported many local charities, but my heart has led me particularly toward children’s and women’s issues.
That passion grew into a commitment to Sweet Dream Makers. Every night, I cherish the moment of tucking my children into bed. Knowing that so many children in our area don’t have that same safety and comfort is heartbreaking, and it drives me to do everything I can to end “bedlessness.” I’m incredibly proud that SDM has provided over 30,000 beds for children in less than a decade.
I’ve also reached the stage of life where the risk for breast cancer increases. Having been involved with the Go Pink Luncheon for more than a decade, I was honored in 2024, alongside my best friend Alejandra Lippolis, to chair the Go Pink Challenge. We proudly accepted the challenge to help lead this grassroots movement to new heights, serving as liaisons between our generous community, the Boca Regional Hospital Foundation, and countless women receiving support for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life.
How would you describe your personal style when attending events?
This may sound unusual, but I’d describe my style as respectful. I’ve always believed that self-awareness and thoughtful presentation show respect for the event, its cause, and its hosts. For me, honoring them means being intentional in how I show up. While staying true to myself, I tend to gravitate toward classic pieces with playful twists—whether through color, silhouette, or unique hairstyles (shout out to Raquel at Twin Beauty!).
Do you have a go-to designer or store that makes you feel confident when dressing up for events?
I’m an equal-opportunity shopper! I love the classics, Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bloomingdale’s—all of which have generously supported local causes. I also enjoy online shopping (hello, Revolve!) and love hunting for high-street finds—Zara treasures are among my favorites. Brands like Self-Portrait and Alice + Olivia frequently make their way into my wardrobe. For truly unique pieces, I adore boutiques, including C. Orrico in Palm Beach and Jenny Polanco in the Dominican Republic.
Who are your style icons, and how do they influence your fashion choices?
I’m inspired by so many! Globally, I admire the timeless elegance of Princess Katherine and the effortless sophistication of Carolina Herrera. Locally, Boca’s own Ms. Christine Lynn always amazes me with her impeccable heel collection, perfectly coordinated with every outfit. Olivia Hollaus, with her statuesque beauty, carries high fashion with remarkable ease.
But my greatest inspirations are closer to home—my grandmother and mother, who still wear heels with confidence, and my daughters, whose fearless sense of style at such young ages constantly reminds me to stay playful and true to myself.
What advice would you give to other women looking to get more involved in the community while expressing their personal style?
Follow your passions. When you do good, you feel good from the inside out. Every woman, regardless of body type, budget, or style, can look and feel beautiful. The key is carrying yourself with confidence. When you serve others and give with love from your heart, you naturally glow, and that glow is the best accessory you could ever wear.
Linda Gunn Paton
Fresh off the Boca Ballroom Battle dance floor, where she helped raise funds for the George Snow Scholarship Fund, Linda embraces philanthropy as a year-round lifestyle. She connects deeply with causes that inspire her, such as the YMCA Inspiration Breakfast, and her polished, playful style reflects the energy and creativity she brings to every event.
What inspires you to stay involved in philanthropic events throughout the season?
I love staying involved because philanthropy isn’t just a single event; it’s my lifestyle. It fuels my sense of purpose, strengthens my connections to the community, and creates ripple effects of positive change throughout the year.
Which community events or causes are closest to your heart, and why?
I absolutely love the Inspiration Breakfast at the YMCA. It’s such a powerful celebration of community, connection, and purpose. The YMCA is much more than a place to work out; it’s a vibrant hub where people of all ages come together to learn, grow, and support one another. That spirit of inclusion and impact is what makes the YMCA truly special.
How would you describe your personal style when attending events?
I love creating a polished look with playful details. A signature element of my style is chic tennis shoes that combine comfort with sophistication. I’m always up for a fun theme, and when attending events, I make sure both my husband and I coordinate to fit the occasion.
Do you have a go-to designer or store that makes you feel confident when dressing up for events?
I love anything from the House of Perna. Amanda Perna creates whimsical, fun fashion that makes me feel beautiful every time I wear her pieces!
Who are your style icons, and how do they influence your fashion choices?
I’ve always been inspired by Coco Chanel because she broke fashion barriers for women and masterfully blended elegance with flair. While she famously advised removing one accessory before leaving the house, I like to add one more piece to make my look playful and uniquely mine.
What advice would you give to other women looking to get more involved in the community while expressing their personal style?
I’d encourage women to start by finding causes that truly resonate with them, something that sparks passion and purpose. Once you’ve found your cause, bring your personal style into your involvement, whether through how you present yourself, host events, or share your story. Your style becomes part of your voice and can inspire others. Most importantly, remember that community involvement is about connection, so show up authentically and let your style reflect who you are.
Denise Zimmerman
Denise is passionate about giving back to her community, supporting causes like the Go Pink Luncheon and the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Ball. Her commitment is deeply personal, and she brings the same elegance, authenticity, and confidence to her philanthropic work as she does to her signature style.
What inspires you to stay involved in philanthropic events throughout the season?
Philanthropy builds community. I enjoy connecting with people I don’t see often but who share a commitment to supporting a cause. By coming together, we strengthen and improve our community.
What community events or causes are closest to you heart and why?
The Go Pink Luncheon and the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Ball are especially meaningful to me. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with breast cancer during my annual screening at the Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute. I chose to undergo surgery and treatment at the Lynn Cancer Center, where I experienced firsthand the incredible doctors, the compassion of dedicated nurses, and the benefits of having a state-of-the-art facility right here in our community. While I’ve supported both events for many years, this personal experience deepened my gratitude and reinforced just how vital these events, and the people who support them, truly are. I also make it a priority to never miss AVDA’s Heart of a Woman Luncheon.
How would you describe your personal style when attending events?
Two things are a must for me: staying true to my personal style pillars and showing respect by following the suggested attire.
Do you have a go-to designer or store that makes you feel confident when dressing up for events?
I’m always gathering inspiration by scrolling social media, taking screenshots, and saving items to my favorites. When I want something for a specific event, I revisit those ideas and either recreate the look with pieces I already own or treat myself to something new. My dream event closet would be full of Chloe, Valentino, and Oscar!
Who are your style icons and how do they influence your fashion choices?
My absolute favorite is Amal Clooney. She always strikes the perfect balance of current, classy, and timeless, which is how I try to approach dressing. For red carpet perfection, I admire Anne Hathaway and Demi Moore. For effortless everyday chic, Jennifer Aniston is my go-to inspiration because she can make a tank top and flip-flops look stylishly cool.
What advice would you give to other women looking to get more involved in the community while expressing their personal style?
First, identify a cause that truly resonates with you and find ways to contribute. Whether it’s hands-on volunteering, making a donation, or simply attending an event, how you give is personal and always in style!
These women prove that style and substance go hand in hand. Whether attending a gala or volunteering behind the scenes, they bring elegance, heart, and purpose to everything they do.
Get Involved: Explore upcoming events and local organizations to support. Your presence and passion can make a difference.
For more from Olivia Hollaus, click here.
