Felipe's Champion Page for Hispanic Unity

My wife and I arrived in the U.S. seeking opportunity, freedom, and dignity for our family. I was hopeful about the new opportunities ahead, but also very stressed by the unfamiliar environment…without a job and unable to speak the language. I left everything behind me, including my extended family.

Hispanic Unity of Florida (HUF) guided my family and me through those first uncertain steps. I gained access to education, learned English, achieved my dream job, and with my wife, became U.S. citizens.

Decades later, I have the honor of leading this same organization that once helped me, ensuring that others can pursue their own version of the American Dream.  

At HUF, we believe that the Dream is not just an individual journey, it’s a family one. When parents find stable jobs, children succeed in school, and grandparents proudly raise their right hand to become U.S. citizens, an entire household moves forward.

I am only one of thousands of people who have benefited from HUF. My story and each success story strengthen our community and ripples across generations.

Hard work matters, but often support, mentorship, and guidance are needed; everything I’ve achieved was possible thanks to HUF and the guidance I received from its former CEO, CFO, board members, funders, and partners.

That’s why I strongly believe my mission is to do the same for many more people – I owe it to them. This Give Miami Day, I’m inviting you to join me in this goal: to keep the American Dream alive for others.

Every dollar you give helps immigrant families in Miami access vocational training, entrepreneurial and citizenship support, emergency food assistance and educational opportunities that build lasting independence.  

I know firsthand what it means to be given a chance and what it feels like to give that chance to others. With your support, we can ensure that the promise of opportunity continues to live here, in our homes, our neighborhoods, and our city. Because when families rise, Miami rises with them.