Parikh Giving Alliance Board Spotlight: Reena Patel
At the heart of the Parikh Giving Alliance is a passionate group of individuals dedicated to accelerating changes in healthcare, education, and the arts. This spotlight series highlights the inspiring stories of our board members and their unique contributions to our mission. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce Reena Patel, a multi-unit franchise owner whose personal and professional journey aligns with the core values of the Alliance.
About Reena Mistry
As the owner of five Lash Lounge locations in Orlando and a boutique wellness center, The Now Massage in Winter Garden, Reena Patel has built a career around creating spaces that prioritize self-care, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Beyond the services her businesses provide, Reena sees her role as an employer and community leader as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
“My businesses are about more than just beauty and wellness,” Reena shares. “We’re fostering well-being and confidence, contributing to physical and mental health, and promoting stress relief. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the work we do helps people feel better in their own skin and in their lives.”
Reena’s professional experiences have also fueled her passion for education. “Education changes the trajectory of lives,” she says. “Whether it’s offering career growth opportunities for my staff or supporting youth programs and scholarships, I’m deeply invested in helping others succeed.”
Why the Parikh Giving Alliance?
Reena was drawn to the Parikh Giving Alliance because of its commitment to addressing healthcare, education, and the arts—the three pillars she believes are essential to community well-being.
“As a business owner, I understand the importance of giving back to the community that supports you,” Reena explains. “Joining the board allows me to extend that impact beyond my businesses and contribute to initiatives that align with my values.”
The Alliance’s mission—“Accelerating Changes that Transform Lives”—resonates deeply with Reena because of its holistic approach to addressing critical community needs. “When you focus on healthcare, education, and the arts, you’re creating a ripple effect of positive transformation. These areas are the foundation of a thriving community.”
Vision and Goals
As a board member, Reena brings her expertise in leadership, strategy, and collaboration to the table. Her role includes reviewing strategic plans, participating in fundraising initiatives, and representing the Alliance at events. But her contributions extend far beyond these responsibilities.
“My goal is to create a lasting impact through expanded educational opportunities, support for the arts, and fostering stronger community partnerships,” Reena shares. “I also want to encourage a culture of volunteering and engagement so more people feel connected to and invested in the work we’re doing.”
A Project That Resonates
Of the many initiatives supported by the Parikh Giving Alliance, the Collaboration Circle: Education Project holds a special place in Reena’s heart. This initiative focuses on fostering resilient and adaptable minds by preparing students for the rapidly changing demands of the modern world.
“As a business owner, I see the importance of adaptability and resilience every day,” Reena notes. “These qualities help my staff and clients overcome challenges and thrive in their careers and personal lives. Being part of a project that equips students with the tools to succeed in any environment is incredibly meaningful to me.”
Driving Transformation Through Collaboration
One of the core values of the Parikh Giving Alliance is empowering nonprofits to collaborate more effectively. For Reena, this concept is deeply relatable and vital to creating meaningful change.
“Collaboration is essential for success,” Reena explains. “In my industry, partnerships and teamwork are key to running a thriving business. The same applies to nonprofits. When organizations pool their resources and expertise, they can address challenges more effectively and make a greater impact.”
"We are thrilled to have Reena Mistry on the Parikh Giving Alliance board. Her dedication to community impact and passion for healthcare, education, and the arts make her an invaluable part of our mission." Beena Parikh, PhD - Co-Founder Parikh Giving Alliance
Looking Ahead
Reena is excited about the future of the Parikh Giving Alliance and its potential to create systemic change. “The Alliance’s focus on healthcare, education, and the arts is so important because these pillars drive the well-being and growth of individuals, families, and communities,” she says.
Over the next five years, Reena envisions the organization expanding its reach and continuing to meet the evolving needs of Central Florida. “By building on our core pillars and fostering collaboration, we can create long-term solutions and make a lasting impact.”
Fun Facts and Inspiration
Outside of her professional and philanthropic work, Reena has a passion for helping people express themselves through creativity. “Artistic self-expression—whether through personal style, creative design, or even a meaningful conversation—can have a profound effect on someone’s well-being,” she says. Reena’s favorite quote, by Maya Angelou, reflects her philosophy on giving and community building:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Final Thoughts
Reena Patel's dedication to community impact and her passion for healthcare, education, and the arts make her an invaluable member of the Parikh Giving Alliance board. Through her leadership, vision, and commitment, she’s helping to advance the Alliance’s mission of accelerating changes that transform lives—one project at a time.