Lourdes was recently Hope for Miami's MVP! She has been with HFM for over a decade. Read her full story below.
1. Hi, tell us who you are, where you are from and how you serve with the team at Hope for Miami?
My name is Lourdes Pena. I’m originally from Las Tuñas, Cuba and have lived here in Miami for the past 35 years.
For the past almost 14 years, I’ve been a part of the Hope for Miami team, serving in various capacities. Currently I’m the Site Supervisor for our after school program at Pinelands Church.
2. Thanks, so, how do you think your skills/gifts, knowledge and interests equip you to do your tasks?
I’ve always loved teaching. From a very young age, I knew that being a teacher was my calling in life and I have been fortunate to be able to serve children of various ages for the last 40 years.
I believe that education opens many doors in life and I strive to make our site a second home for our children.
I am fully devoted to ensuring that Pinelands is a place where children can learn and have fun in a safe and nurturing environment.
3. What’s one aspect of Hope for Miami’s work that most encourages and motivates you?
I am very grateful for the opportunities that Hope for Miami has given me to help children and their families and to make a real positive difference in their lives.
Life is all about relationships and my inspiration comes from getting to know the children and their families. Each child is unique and they all need to feel special and loved.
There is a great satisfaction and sense of purpose that comes from making a difference in the life of a child that makes all the hard work and sacrifices worthwhile.
4. Finally, tell us something interesting about yourself to help us get to know you better.
I have lived in three different countries and have been fortunate enough to work with children everywhere I’ve been. I met my husband, Arturo when I was sixteen years old and we have been together for over 45 years.
We have two sons, Kelvin and Arturo Jr. and two granddaughters, Kayla and Anaiah. We are a very close family and we are always there for each other.