September 15th marked the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The monthlong celebration is a time to recognize the tremendous contributions Hispanic and Latino/a/e Americans have made in the United States. In recognition of this year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” This month, PG honored our amazing staff and clients who have made significant impacts on their communities.
Robert Martinez
We remember 66-year-old Robert Martinez*, who sadly passed away recently after a series of health setbacks. A friendly, big-hearted man with roots in the Dominican Republic, Mr. Martinez brought his Brooklyn neighborhood together by telling entertaining stories, sharing his love of salsa music, and showing off his competitive spirit. In fact, he was once revered as the “domino champion of Sunset Park.” To Mr. Martinez and all our Hispanic and Latino/a/e clients, we see you and honor you, this month and always.
*“Robert Martinez” is a pseudonym for a PG client. We maintain the privacy and protect the identity of, and all information related to, our clients.
Sebastian Flores
We shine a light on Sebastian Flores*, a Peruvian man who came to the US in the late 1950s with his wife and children. Through focus and determination, he eventually realized his dream of becoming a homeowner. Now 80, Mr. Flores is a beloved member of his Brooklyn neighborhood, where he has spent more than 65 fulfilling years, surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors. To Mr. Flores and all our Hispanic and Latino/a/e clients, we see you and honor you, this month and always. * “Sebastian Flores” is a pseudonym for a PG client. We maintain the privacy and protect the identity of, and all information related to, our clients.
Alma Diaz
We salute Alma Diaz*, a 79-year-old woman who originally hailed from the Dominican Republic and always puts family first. Hardworking and kind, Ms. Diaz raised her daughters as a single parent, determined to give them more opportunities than she had. Her efforts paid off: She joyfully watched all three graduate from college! A former glassware factory employee, Ms. Diaz currently resides in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, her home for the past 35 years. To Ms. Diaz and all our Hispanic and Latino/a/e clients, we see you and honor you, this month and always. *“Alma Diaz” is a pseudonym for a PG client. We maintain the privacy and protect the identity of, and all information related to, our clients.
*“Alma Diaz” is a pseudonym for a PG client. We maintain the privacy and protect the identity of, and all information related to, our clients.
Carlos Rivera
We shine a light on Carlos Rivera, PG’s Chief Financial Officer. “Carlos leads with compassion, and he knows his accounting principles,” remarked a colleague. “Thanks to Carlos, our books are in great shape today.” Asked what this observance means to him, Carlos shared, “Hispanic Heritage Month represents the celebration of the rich culture which I have been born into, culture which finds its expression in the history, language, food, and rhythms of my forefathers.”
Yajaira Brown
We proudly honor Yajaira Brown, one of PG’s outstanding case managers. “I think Yadi should be nominated for her hard work and dedication to her clients,” shared a colleague. “She always goes above for everyone, not just her team.” When asked to say a few words about what this honor and the month mean to her, Yajaira remarked, “my Hispanic heritage is a source of pride because I carry the roots of my culture, language, religion, and my values. I am proud to see how we contribute to this country in a positive way, she said. “Many Hispanics today have jobs as police officers, doctors, and nurses, but the most beautiful thing to know is that we are all human beings, regardless of the color of our skin. We are all one.”
Holly Pellot
We recognize Holly Pellot, PG’s Senior Client Finance Associate. “Holly is a consummate professional who has served our clients for 10 years,” noted one of her colleagues. “The lives of so many have been enriched by the work she does.” Thinking about her personal connection to Hispanic Heritage Month, which goes through Oct. 15, Holly said, “During this month, I reflect and share how Puerto Ricans have made their mark. I honor the thousands who have fought for the US since World War I and those who have served in government such as US Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Antonia Novello, the first Hispanic and first woman Surgeon General. I am proud of my Hispanic heritage and will always be reminded of our traditions, delicious foods, and rich culture that has shaped the person I am today.”
Areli Torres
Here’s what a team member had to say about Areli Torres, PG’s Accounts Payable Associate: “Areli’s kindness and empathy make her a beloved colleague, and her attention to detail ensures excellence in her work. Celebrating her during Hispanic Heritage Month not only honors her individual achievements but also the vibrant diversity she represents.” We asked Areli to comment on what this recognition, and the month, mean to her. “Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor and celebrate our contributions and achievements to society while also overcoming social, systemic, and cultural barriers, she said. “While I enjoy having a cheeseburger and hotdog on the Fourth of July, I can't forget about the delicious tamales, pozoles, and tostadas that we have on Christmas Eve. This month provides me with a sense of pride in my Mexican roots, brown skin, and culture.”
Carolyn Rodriguez
"As a first-generation American with roots in the Dominican Republic, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of deep reflection and celebration for me. It's a chance to honor the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of my parents, who came to this country seeking a better life for their family. Through their hard work and determination, they instilled in me a profound respect for my heritage and the values of community and perseverance.
This month is not only a time to celebrate our rich culture, language, and traditions but also to acknowledge the contributions that Dominican Americans and the broader Hispanic community have made to this country. It's an opportunity for me to connect with my roots, celebrate our shared history, and continue passing on the legacy of our vibrant culture. Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me of the importance of embracing both my American and Dominican identities, and it inspires me to carry forward the pride and values my family has instilled in me.