Meet Prospera Regional Board Member in the West Coast of Florida, Ismael Torres
Ismael Torres serves as Director of Business Development in Florida at Lake Michigan Credit Union, where he works to improve the financial well-being of members and communities. His passion for building strong relationships and helping businesses succeed also led him to become a Prospera Regional Board Member in the West Coast of Florida, where he supports the organization’s mission to help start, sustain, and grow small businesses to achieve community prosperity. Continue reading to learn more about Ismael and what motivates his volunteer service.
What are your workplace’s mission and products/services?
We exist to improve the financial well-being of our members and communities by providing trusted financial services, personalized guidance, and meaningful community partnerships.
What motivated you to serve as a Prospera volunteer?
I believe that successful small businesses create stronger communities. Prospera’s work of empowering small businesses aligns with my passion for helping people build meaningful relationships, grow their businesses, and create lasting opportunities.
What have you enjoyed the most so far about volunteering with Prospera?
Connecting with other leaders and entrepreneurs who are passionate about education, mentorship, and meaningful relationships.
What would you most like the community to know about Prospera?
Prospera is much more than a business resource. It is a trusted partner that helps entrepreneurs access the tools, education, and network they need to grow sustainable businesses and strengthen our local economy.
Which three words best describe you?
Authentic, curious, and connector.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
Relationships built with genuine intent will always create more opportunities than chasing transactions. When you focus on adding value and serving others, success follows.
How do you achieve work/life balance?
I try to be fully present wherever I am. Whether I’m with my family, serving in the community, or at work, I focus on being intentional with my time and making each moment count.
How do you stay informed about trends in your industry?
Through industry publications, LinkedIn, podcasts, conferences, and by regularly connecting with leaders across banking, business, and the nonprofit community.
Where is your favorite place to have a meeting outside of the office?
Any local coffee shop. I find that the most meaningful conversations happen over coffee.
Which social media platform do you use most frequently?
LinkedIn and Instagram.
What is one item still on your bucket list?
Taking my wife to Italy. We planned to honeymoon there after our wedding, but COVID changed those plans. Now, six years later, with two kids and another on the way, it remains one of the dreams we’re most excited to make happen.
Ismael’s belief in the power of genuine relationships is at the heart of both his professional work and volunteer service with Prospera. As a Regional Board Member in the West Coast of Florida, he brings his experience in business development and community engagement to help strengthen the organization’s work and advance its mission. His approach to service reflects a simple but meaningful principle: lasting opportunities begin with relationships built on trust, purpose, and a genuine desire to add value.
