Sylvia’s biggest passion is service to the community. She has been a member of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, where she has been involved with inter-American relations activities between Mexico and the U.S. A member of the RGV Hispanic Chamber and HWNT since 2003, when it was first started in the RGValley. She also serves as vice-president with ZONTA, a service organization of businesses and professionals working together to advance the status of women through service and advocacy. The newest board involvement is with Centro Cultural, trying to instill awareness of different cultures into the fast-growing community by providing native products and activities.

She graduated from Leadership McAllen Class VIII and served on its board. She has served the City of McAllen as an advisor on three committees: Community Development Council (served two terms and chaired for one), Planning & Zoning Commission (done two terms and co-chaired one term, later served two more terms), and also on Heart of the City Corp., representing the downtown neighborhoods.

Sylvia was awarded the “Business Service Award of the Year” by TBEA/District I teachers. The following year state was recognized by receiving the “Business Person of the Year” by Texas Business Education Association in El Paso. She still serves as an advisor with Weslaco ISD.

It was 26 years ago that Dr. Bailes from Valley Oncology encouraged me to provide products and services so that women diagnosed with breast cancer did not have to travel out of town. She was inspired to do more research and inform herself of women’s necessities after diagnosis.

It was Ruth Handler, the creator of the Barbie and Ken doll and Nearly Me Prosthetics. She mentored and guided Hinojosa to serve the needs of women already having a difficult time with a cancer diagnosis since Handler had breast cancer herself. The Butterfly Btq. has evolved into a resource for products, information, and a lending ear, not just for women but, most recently, men diagnosed with breast cancer and needing specialty garments.

Knowing about The Butterfly Boutique is very important ‘before or after you are diagnosed with breast cancer – it gives a woman confidence in knowing where to go and what products are available to alleviate any aches and pains and look good and feel confident again. With more men diagnosed with breast cancer, compression garments are essential to lessen the discomfort of lymphodema.

The new location, situated in an old McAllen neighborhood, has been a dream come true since it’s away from the medical area and more of “a home away from home” for many who visit. It’s tranquil, very inviting, and spacious.