We grow things at Great Performances, but how do you get to your roots?
I had to ask myself that question when I decided I wanted to do a little volunteer work. Liz has encouraged us and supported any efforts we bring to the table that connect us to our communities, so I went for my metaphoric roots.
I am part Puerto Rican, but I had never lived there so I said okay, I'll go for it! So I researched a few places and I stumbled on the Puerto Rican Family Institute. I figured I would try to learn something about my heritage, my roots. I went there and decided instead to do a presentation for Great Performances, as part of business outreach. What I found was an organization dedicated to many services to the community and families in need all throughout NYC for healthcare, housing, children's education, family support services, and psychiatric services. I couldn't believe their effect on kids and families in the loca Latin communities. I'm not a doctor, I'm not a psychiatrist, I'm not a family health specialist, but I'm one person that simply stumbled upon a place to help. Started giving a couple of hours of my time a week. Simple things from making calls to using the knowledge I've gained or being an extra ear. My pockets aren't deep, but if my time helps, a call I make gets a donation, or advice I share to the organization helps them step in a positive direction, I have touched my roots.