About us
Welcome to the Sickle Cell Awareness Foundation Corp. International, an organization committed to excellence. We invite you to join us in raising awareness about the connection between sickle cell disease, congestive heart failure, and kidney function. Become part of our community as we create meaningful opportunities for volunteerism and advocacy.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all friends and supporters who contributed to the success of our 5K Walk/Run Health Forum at Roy Wilkins Park. Despite challenging weather conditions, the event was a powerful and unifying experience. This walk was held in loving memory of our son, Syd Sotillo, who passed away on April 20 of 2012 due to complications from sickle cell disease. We were deeply touched by the presence of his friend, Alex Harris, who traveled from California to stand with us. We also thank Marie, the Explorers, law enforcement officers, and the many health agencies that participated. We are especially grateful for the support from the office of Senator James Sanders, as well as Tom Libous the Deputy Majority Leader, who presented our President Merlene Smith-Sotillo with a proclamation on behalf of the organization. We sincerely appreciate everyone’s participation and dedication, and we look forward to welcoming you to our upcoming events.
The Sickle Cell Awareness Foundation Corp. International is dedicated to promoting awareness, compassion, continuing education, and support for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.
We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Guided by our motto, “With us, you can always start fresh,” we are a committed group of community volunteers—including parents, medical professionals, and advocates—working together to improve the quality of life for those living with sickle cell disease.
OUR MISSION
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Expand Awareness of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
Increase public understanding of SCD as a hereditary blood disorder that affects hemoglobin and can lead to chronic pain, infections, and organ complications. Promote education on genetic inheritance patterns and encourage early screening, including newborn testing and genetic counseling. -
Advocate for Improved Treatment and Access to Care
Champion equitable access to comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services, including specialized treatment centers, pain management, preventative care, and emerging therapies. Support policies that reduce healthcare disparities and improve insurance coverage and affordability for individuals living with SCD. -
Educate and Empower Families and Communities
Provide practical guidance to parents, caregivers, and community members on managing SCD, including recognizing early warning signs, maintaining preventative care routines, and supporting overall wellness. Encourage community engagement, support networks, and informed decision-making. -
Promote Research and Innovation Toward a Cure
Support and inspire advancements in medical research, including gene therapies, improved medications, and curative treatments such as bone marrow and stem cell transplants. Advocate for increased funding and participation in clinical research initiatives. -
Encourage Preventative Care and Holistic Health Management
Highlight the importance of hydration, nutrition, routine medical visits, and mental health support to improve quality of life and reduce complications associated with SCD. -
Foster Community Support and Advocacy
Build a strong, informed community of advocates, volunteers, and healthcare partners dedicated to improving outcomes and driving long-term change for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.
“Together, we continuously provide services and touch the lives of people we may never meet, through your generosity.”
Merlene Smith-Sotillo
PRESIDENT & CEO
Merlene Smith-Sotillo, a resident of Jamaica, Queens, was born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies. From an early age, she demonstrated a strong interest in the medical field and a commitment to academic excellence. She attended Success Village R.C. School and later Mills High School, where she graduated at the top of her class. She continued her education at Geans Secretarial School, earning a diploma in clerical studies. Shortly thereafter, she began her professional career at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel, where she worked in the hospitality industry for several years.
In 1989, Merlene immigrated to the United States with her family and began working at McDonald’s, where she advanced into a management role. Determined to further her education, she enrolled in evening courses at York College to complete her G.E.D. During this time, she also pursued coursework in the medical field, driven by a deeply personal motivation—two of her four children were diagnosed with sickle cell disease. This experience fueled her desire to better understand the condition and advocate for improved care.
Frustrated by the lack of accessible information and adequate treatment options she encountered earlier in Trinidad and Tobago, Merlene became committed to seeking knowledge, solutions, and support for families affected by sickle cell disease. Her passion led her to become actively involved with several sickle cell organizations in the United States. She also volunteered at Queens Hospital Center, where she attended numerous seminars and educational programs focused on sickle cell disease.
Recognizing a critical need for greater awareness and community education, Merlene founded the Sickle Cell Awareness Foundation Corp. International in August 2007, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocacy, education, and support. Under her leadership, the foundation has organized and hosted numerous initiatives, including blood drives, walkathons, bike-a-thons, health fairs, and the development of a community referral network.
In 2009, inspired by the Sickle Cell Treatment Act, Merlene expanded her advocacy efforts and built strong partnerships with elected officials, community leaders, and supporters. With the backing of her community, family, friends, and faith-based organizations, the foundation has grown into a trusted and impactful resource.
In addition to her work with the foundation, Merlene has supported several civic and charitable organizations, including the Cancer Action Council, the NAACP, and 1199. With more than 25 years of experience in advocacy and community engagement, she has assisted countless individuals and families in navigating the challenges of sickle cell disease.
Through educational programming, health fairs, blood drives, and community events, the Sickle Cell Awareness Foundation Corp. International continues to raise public awareness of sickle cell disease and the sickle cell trait. The organization also provides counseling and social support services to individuals and families affected by the condition.
In recognition of her dedication and impact, Merlene Smith-Sotillo has received multiple honors, including a Congressional Proclamation and six Senatorial Proclamations within her district.
Syd Sotillo, 30, from Brooklyn, New York, passed away on April 20 2012, due to medical complications including sickle cell anemia and heart issues. Born on June 2, 1981, to Merlene and Molino Sotillo, he attended Hillcrest High School and Interboro Institute. Syd was the owner of Fortune Millionaire Inc. and was cherished not only as a businessman but also as a beloved son, brother, and friend to many. His absence will be deeply felt. The Sotillo family invites you to join them in honoring Syd's memory As my friend departs from this life, we acknowledge that our time here is fleeting. Though he left us too soon, we both understood that life is merely a momentary blink. Age is just a number, and true wisdom transcends years. Your friendship was a constant in my life, and now, as I can no longer see or hear you, your spirit has moved on to the golden streets of Fortune Millionaire, a place we often dreamed of. Heaven has embraced you, a strong yet gentle giant, who kept his fortune safe for the day he would be called home. Until my time comes, I will hold onto the hope of reuniting with you in our everlasting friendship. I will miss you dearly, my friend. ~ C. Alvarez
Syd Orland Sotillo
Former Vice President
Our Team
Merlene Smith- Sotillo
President & Founder
Oversees fundraising operations, and is also the organization's chief fundraiser. This involves acting as the primary spokesperson for the organization, recruiting donors, and attending fundraising functions. Act as a liaison to the board of directors.
Molino Sotillo
Co-President
Senior executive responsible for driving strategic initiatives, overseeing internal operations, and supporting the President or President to achieve company goals. Often serving as second-in-command, the CO-President acts as a crucial link between high-level strategy and daily operations.
Dr. Margarita Cabral
Chairwoman
Leads the board of directors, acting as the highest-ranking officer responsible for corporate governance, strategic direction, and shareholder interests. She presides over board meetings, set agendas, and ensure the organization acts in accordance with its long-term goals.
Dr. Marva Frederick
Asst. Vice President
Provides high-level administrative, operational, and strategic support, acting as a liaison between the VP and other stakeholders to manage workflows, calendars, and special projects. She facilitate departmental operations, prepare briefing materials, handle confidential correspondence, and often oversees administrative staff to ensure efficient functioning of the vice president's office.
Carolyn Cato
Manager
She oversees daily operations, staff performance, and strategic goals to ensure efficiency and profitability. Key duties include hiring and training employees, managing budgets, setting team goals, and implementing company strategies. They act as a liaison between staff and senior leadership to drive productivity.
Steve Behar
Attourny
Attorney and team member. He is our general counsel, navigating legal issues unique to tax-exempt entities, including IRS compliance, corporate governance, and state regulations. Manages formation, contract negotiations, employment law, charitable solicitation compliance, and risk management to protect the organization's mission and reputation.