Heroes Spotlights

Heroes 2020

Pablo Mazariegos

FROM: Guatemala Chattanoogan since 2014

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am a Marriage Family Therapist at the Family Justice Center where I lead counseling groups in the schools. I am also founder of the Resilience Documentary Fund where I produce films on racial equity and the resiliency of immigrant youth in public education.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

I felt alive when the opportunity came to help. Like many others, during the early weeks of the pandemic I felt trapped at my house. And I couldn’t stop thinking about the needs of our community; particularly the families that experienced loss due to the tornado. So when a friend called me to help as a translator at Auburn Hills Trailer Park, I was ready to get to work! And seeing the residents of this neighborhood come together to rebuild their neighborhood has been incredible to watch.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

Public school educators. They serve beyond their job description and teach me that vulnerability is something beautiful and manageable.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

The hardest challenges for me were experiencing the grief of losing my friend Miguel due to Covid, and managing the fears of almost losing my brother to Covid. Both of these occurred at the same time, and were painful to manage.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

My church family - New City East Lake. I don’t have an immediate family in Chattanooga, which is very odd for a Guatemalan, so my church family has been a blessing. Their love and support has kept me grounded.

What advice would you give yourself/what would you tell yourself as preparation for all that you would see and experience in 2020 before it actually began?

To be sincere with myself. One of the hardest things for me this year was dealing with my irritability, which was due to many unexpected changes. I had plans and projects that had to be canceled or postponed; and not being able to visit schools and engage with the students that I regularly see was difficult. Being honest with myself about the feelings that come with these changes would certainly help.

Heroes 2020

Jacinta Oviedo Quintana

FROM: Ciudad Valles, San Luis Potosí, Mexico In the area since 2004

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am known for being a volunteer for four years at La Paz de Chattanooga. today I serve my community through my church, Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) through the manager of service to the Hispanic community, Laura Moore.

When we started to see a crisis strike our city, what were your first thoughts when you decided to do something for the community?

I knew that something had to be done, in a difficult situation and in any situation of need and that if it is in our hands to contribute, it must be done. Through my church (OLPH) I received a proposal from Laura Moore to make masks and it was time to help contribute to this crisis, we started and I say we started because there was help through La Paz Chattanooga with sewing machines. I also had the help of a friend who collaborated with me, Edith Valtierra, thank you so much!

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

My parents; my late father Rosendo Oviedo and my mother Benita Quintana, are my heroes, and they have always inspired me to try to be a better human being, to share what God gives us, to have character, but also simplicity and humility, always helping those who need it.

When you think about everything that has happened this year and what you have done, what message would you give yourself before all this happened?

My message to me, that I thank God for having this talent and that it serves to help others!

What has been the biggest challenge for you in 2020?

My challenge is the changes that as a family we had to make to protect ourselves from this pandemic, my children take online classes and are at home 24/7. But my biggest challenge is my commitment that I have as mother to Mariana Guadalupe, Sophia Montserrat, Ismael Jr. and as a partner to my husband, Ismael; my family is always my commitment, teaching and learning as a mother, doing good for my children and supporting my family as a unit.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

Without a doubt, when Laura Moore says, “Thank you! You have no idea how many lives you have saved with this mask.” Thank you Laura for trusting me! Also when I received a thank you letter from President Jennifer Nicely from Memorial Hospital.

Paulo Hutson Solórzano

FROM: Born in South Carolina, raised in Managua, Nicaragua Chattanoogan since 2007

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

A Medida LLC’s Co-founder and Managing Director for Southeast US Region and Central America. I am known in the community for our work consulting with Cempa Community Care in developing their Latinx Outreach Initiative. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I helped Cempa coordinate FREE Community COVID-19 testing.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

There was little to no communication efforts geared toward the Latinx community causing the local Latinx population to be most affected by the pandemic. This was an injustice to our Latinx community that has greatly contributed to the reason we’re able to call Chattanooga “The best town” in the nation. There something needed to be done to empower and include our Latinx community in the fight against COVID-19.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

My missionary parents, Rubén Darío, Diane Raulston-Salcido, and every person that has ever advocated for equality and justice.

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

All of us were created equally and I am a bridge, a voice, to ensure that every person--regardless of color, origin, language or socio-economic status--deserves an equal opportunity in this fight against the virus.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

Seeing the inequality in our community and how said inequality caused several friends and love ones to lose their lives to COVID-19.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

Although there is inequality in our community and nation, it was most rewarding to see community members and organizations put aside their differences and come together to bridge the gap and advocate for our community needs—especially those greatly burdened by the pandemic and natural disasters that hit our city.

Maria Imelda Quechol Varela

FROM: Puebla, Mexico Chattanoogan since 1993-2000, 2015 - Present

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

Here in the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, I am the coordinator of the Hispanic community, but as missionary sisters we also help and give support to all those who need it, mainly forming people who are leaders in our parish and community. Commonly everyone knows me as Sister or Mother Imelda.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

My first thoughts were sad because many began to lose their jobs, several began to be infected and at the same time they infected their children and all their family. I saw several cases of families where everyone had been infected and could not go out to buy food or medicine, it was very sad to know that many suffered alone and the treatment they received from other people. That’s when we started helping everyone who needed food or money to pay for your bills. We also received help from several organizations that many times joined our cause or vice versa we joined theirs.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

My mom is definitely one of my heroes. She, with her example, taught me to be strong, responsible, honest, and through her life I learned to be that person who is never defeated, who fights and gets ahead despite difficulties. She was always faithful in her marriage and to her children. Sadly, my mom died in 2012, but I left the teachings of an extraordinary human being, as a mother, as a wife, as a woman, she always gave the best she had. My mom marked me with her love and kindness and her smile will always live in me.

Another of my heroes is Saint John Paul II. He was an exemplary person, always ready to spread kindness and peace. He was a truly good man who taught us to see the best in others, who always traveled and visited many countries looking for unity. He always fought for peace and the wellbeing of others. It is for all this that he is one of my heroes, and my inspiration to be someone full of love for others.

When you think about everything that has happened this year and what you have done, what message would you give yourself before all this happened?

Before all this happened I would have told myself that love for others is the most precious thing in this world because God presents himself in different ways for everyone and perhaps one of those ways is oneself giving hope to someone else.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

The biggest challenge this year has been to be able to express to others that feeling of community and unity when for a long time we could not meet or when many times we cannot experience special moments together. And also being able to teach our community to not be afraid to ask for help if they need it. It is okay to admit that sometimes we need help, and you are not alone in this fight.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

The most rewarding part has been being able to see the smile on someone who was perhaps in tears. The power to give a little hope to all those who perhaps wondered what they were going to eat tomorrow or a word of support to those who were ill and wondering if everything was going to be okay. So many sad stories have emerged during this time; in the pandemic, many lost loved ones, friends, children, parents, siblings, cousins and yet are willing to give others words of encouragement, the desire to keep going, and that despite the pain there is hope and that is something so important - empathy for others.

Ingrid Martinez

FROM: Guatemala Chattanoogan since 2000

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am currently the front office coordinator at Chattanooga Prep. I am a big help with our Hispanic families at the school and generally support anyone in the community or around my neighborhood with any support they need or help out in general with translation.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

I stepped up helping the community at a young age and have been so happy to help anyone who needs help because it is tough when you don’t know the city you live in or need support to help your family. I remember helping my mother with doctor appointments or finding places where to get my siblings to register for school, etc. I may write a list, and the list can go on and on, and I knew that it’s not only my mother facing this situation but also others, and thinking of being on their feet is hard and never wish that on anyone.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

I had received significant help from the community in general. Still, one particular person who helped my family and me is Ms. Marisol Jimenez; when

I was young, she worked as the ESOL teacher and East Side. I remember going to her class as if it was yesterday, and I could ask her anything, and would help us with anything. That is one big reason I stepped because we need more people like her to help the community and remember as a great role model.

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year, and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

That it’s a challenging world out there, but a small grain of help you set aside will maybe not be a big difference in the world, but you know you helped someone out of the million families out there, and that is one less person in crisis.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

The greatest challenge I have faced in 2020 is seeing many Hispanic families have lacked the information and support they are looking for help due to

COVID and trying to meet something in the world they don’t know what they can do with the pandemic going on.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

The most rewarding part of 2020 is knowing that there are communities all around us and are growing and helping more and more around us, and that makes me understand that the city is working stronger every day to help anyone in need!

Thank you for making it possible for La Paz Chattanooga to be there for its constituents in a year like no other! Here is a small look into the work we have done with your help:

We’ve distributed food and needed supplies (dry goods, fresh produce, diapers, bleach, masks and more) to 1,975 families in partnership with the Chattanooga Area Foodbank as well as many other agencies, including the YMCA, the Bethlehem Center, the Hamilton Co. Office of Emergency Management, and EPB.

We partnered with Cempa Community Care, Clínica Médicos and Alleo Health to provide access and availability to COVID-19 testing for more than 1,619 people. We are currently housing an accessible testing site in our office five days a week, operated by Cempa, that will be open until November 25th.

Provided over $160,000 in direct financial assistance for approximately 300 families struggling financially because of COVID-19 and the Easter tornadoes.

Connected with and supported 200+ women from our Latina empowerment groups, more than 50 Latino business owners and 150 Compañía members through online workshops, mental health support groups, informational livestreams, and direct assistance and education.

We’ve amplified collaboration with the City of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, forming the Latinx Outreach Working Group for COVID-19, and are currently leading area-wide communications efforts for multiple agencies (#JuntosContraCovid).

Engaged up to 80,000 people through our social media educational outreach efforts and campaigns.

Equipped nearly 20,000 Latinos to complete the 2020 Census and provided voter education to over 1,000 Latino voters.

Finally, we broke ground and started construction on Chattanooga’s first Latinx Community Center, located at 809 S Willow St. in the heart of Highland Park.

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

Incorporation, Business Coaching, Payroll Services, and Operations Management

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

How best to make sure my clients obtained the federal PPP funding that was their fair share. I refused to believe that our TN Valley corporate citizens would not be able to continue their hard-won existence compared to their white counterparts. To date, four (4) of our Latino businesses received both SBA PPP Funding and SBA EIDL loans totaling over $300,000 due their partnership with my company ANCUR, INC.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

John Leguizamo for his epic work in “Latin history for Morons.” Simply put, he made everyone proud. Also Napoleon Hill for his seminal work in selfhelp. “Think and Grow Rich”- Father of Positive affirmations

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

DeVan Curry, M.S.

FROM: United States Chattanoogan since 2000

In 2019, my thoughts were centered on developing a one stop business development firm that was accessible to all for education, growth, and development. My desire was to build on my organization so that its main focus was to reduce the educational barriers to business ownership through application of concierge level business administration tactics and innovative operational strategies.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

The greatest challenge was seeing several of my clients that were salon owners that lost their leases to their businesses. To see those owners being denied aide due to someone deciding they were “non-essential”. That was a mental devastation that I could not help to alleviate, especially when several were denied unemployment as well.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

My most rewarding moment was seeing the looks on several employees faces to realize that due to

SBA PPP/EIDL funding they would remain employed by my clients.

That was AMAZING!!

All Glory to GOD!!

Jaime Kerns

FROM: South Florida, to a Cuban father and Caucasian mother Chattanoogan since 1st Grade

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am a public school teacher and public education advocate with UnifiED, HCU (Hamilton County United), HCEA (Hamilton County Education Association), and a PEF Advocacy Fellow for 2018-2019. I currently teach Spanish and have taught English as a Second Language both here and abroad. I also created CHArlanooga, a language meetup (used to be at The Local Juice, now via zoom) to foster connections through speaking Spanish at all ability levels.

I have actively advocated for better access to district resources in Spanish (and other primary home languages), as well as increased access to world language opportunities for all students. In addition to my advocacy for parent resources being available in Spanish, I have advocated and supported a variety of local initiatives to share Spanish-speaking culture with public education students to promote better understanding of our diverse community, such as CultureFest, LatinoFest, Mercado Latino Americano (by Veronica Ramírez). Many educators and decision makers know my passion for helping our community to become more globally minded.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

As the crisis began to strike our city, my first thoughts were for my students and their families. Do they know what’s going on? Do they have food? Are they safe?

As I began to think of how to help and where I could be of service, I knew of the district’s limited Spanish language resources and I began to advocate loudly through all my advocacy channels for all of our Spanish speaking parents and their need to be connected and kept up to date regarding their children’s education.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

Who are some of my personal heroes? Locally I have always been inspired by people I am fortunate to call my friend like: Veronica Ramírez (for her work in the community & desire to share Venezuelan culture), Marilin Perez ( for her love of Cuba and teaching little ones- did you know Former Sec of Education Arne Duncan came to her class?!), and Alejandra Rivera (came from Mexico to serve God and Spanish-speakers here in Chattanooga).

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

The message I could see telling myself is that my voice doesn’t matter and that people don’t really want to hear about nor care about educational equity for ALL of our students. I always wondered why and figured my lack of attention because I’m ‘too white’ to fit their idea of Latina, I don’t have a ‘Spanish last name’, nor do I have an accent. Plainly put, I’m not Latina enough. I know that I am not alone in this struggle of not being enough’ and I had let this get to me and my goal to be a bridge for culture and educational support.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

I am fortunate that I have my job, my home, my health and that of my family, and that I can still worship, albeit online. My greatest challenge is not being WITH people. I am a social person. I love to connect with others and have them connect with others. I teach from home, so I don’t go to family gatherings (and I have 3 sisters and their children!!), nor am I am attending social, religious, or academic functions in person, nor am I going to the gym, and I’m not traveling abroad to see family in Cuba. So 2020 has been difficult in maintaining connections.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

For me, the most rewarding part of 2020 is working from home and having time with my husband and my daughters (both who are working/going to school from home). I am thoroughly enjoying the slower pace of life. I am loving the use of Zoom for my meetings, as well as the challenge of finding ways to connect and help others. And to be honest, I am happy that through this pandemic, our community is stepping up in ways as never before but STILL recognizes that we have a long way to go to make sure all students and their families and equitable access to learning, food, and work.

Educating the Next Generation of Heroes Cultivando la Próxima Generación de Héroes

chattanoogastate.edu

11-70-404002-76-10/20/jp - AD - Chattanooga State does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class. See our full EEO statement at chattanoogastate.edu/eeo-statement.

Mercy Kealey

“As the Director of Financial Aid at McCallie School, Mercy works tirelessly to provide access to high quality education to individuals of all backgrounds, and also uses her influence to expand opportunities for Hispanic/Latino boys to come to McCallie. I can’t count the number of hours she works in a normal year, and during the COVID-19 outbreak and Easter tornadoes, I’m not sure how she found time to sleep. So many families have lost their incomes, their businesses, or their homes, and Mercy listened to each of their stories and assisted them in applying for and receiving emergency hardship grants to keep their sons at McCallie. Mercy is truly a hidden gem! She is Cuban and served as a great example to everyone who meets her of just how hardworking, capable, and passionate Hispanic/Latinx individuals are and what an amazing contribution they add to our community.”

Liz Thompson, McCallie School

Luz Bohorquez

FROM: Colombia Chattanoogan since 2000

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am a business owner, serving the Latino community.

When we started to see a crisis strike our city, what were your first thoughts when you decided to do something for the community?

I searched for a way to help out the community during the crisis we’re going through, the pandemic, and the tornado.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

Firefighters, police officers, doctors, the Health Department and nonprofit organizations that have been supporting the community during this pandemic.

When you think about everything that has happened this year and what you have done, what message would you give yourself before all this happened?

Keep calm and united in mutual support going forward, because God is in control of the situation.

What has been the biggest challenge for you in 2020?

Opening my second office at the beginning of a pandemic, and navigating the aftermath of the tornados, which significantly affected many of my clients.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

Having the opportunity to help and support many people in a time when we are all living within the confines of a crisis.

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am the Parent Volunteer Coordinator at Hixson Elementary, and part of my job is helping Latino families at my school and in the area.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

As I work at the school at the end of March when we went into quarantine, we began by helping mothers with the school assignments that were sent, helping them access the zoom meetings when the teachers asked for it, to keep tabs on the Latino families who asked for help with all the changes that happened at the end of the school year and I also volunteered with my children in the areas of the city that had been affected by the tornadoes.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you? I don’t have heroes myself, people I admire are all those who say they leave their comfort

Jessica Rodriguez

FROM: Bolivia Chattanoogan since 2001

and discomfort of their country to get ahead for their family in another country and that is almost all immigrants from any country. My admiration is for each of them.

When you think about everything that has happened this year and what you have done, what message would you give yourself before all this happened?

Hugging our loved ones more and making the most of time with them is what is important, and not postponing the trips you can make.

What has been the biggest challenge for you in 2020?

Not having been able to go to my country to see my family, I haven’t seen them in 9 years. That has been very difficult to assimilate. I already had the tickets purchased for June.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020? Spend more time with my children. And to be able to vote for the first time in this country that is finally mine.

Janet Vidal

FROM: Miami, Florida, to Chilean parents, Chattanoogan since 1997

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am a Licensed Insurance Agent and Manager of “Fields Insurance – Seguro que Si” – Chattanooga office.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

There is no time to decide ... you just do it! Over the years, I have experienced many insurance claims that resulted from severe weather. When so many of my clients lost their homes, trailers, and cars to the devastating tornado in Chattanooga I knew that I had to hold their hand through the claim since many don’t speak or understand English. I also thought it was my duty to even help those that were not our clients so that they could understand their policy. It is easy to get lost in the claims process. An insurance contract is a scary piece of paper that you hope to never use and having someone explain what your coverage is gives you the peace of mind that is needed during uncertain times.

To be honest, I am given countless opportunities to be of service every day and that is what I love about my career! Over 90%

of our clients are Spanish speakers and specifically within this demographic I see the need to educate the public about what they really need with their coverage. I get to do that every time I meet someone new and they find out what I do!

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

I have the honor and privilege of working with some amazing ladies in our agency and each one is a hero! They all have servant’s hearts and are here standing alongside me and helping me and our community every day. Their smiles, their commitments to our clients, and their friendship help me remember that serving the people of Chattanooga is our highest calling and that it is always the little things we can do for people that make the biggest difference.

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

It is the same message I have always told myself: Keep your faith strong and your family close; be patient and kind; love without condition, reservation or expectation and help when you can. Most importantly it is not necessary that people know what you do if God knows what you have done!

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

Continually reminding myself and the staff that we do make a difference and that no matter what is going on we can shine a light and share a smile.

It has been difficult to watch so many suffer through the pandemic with loss of jobs and the economic impact that entails. We want people to know we care; beyond “business”!

We have had to learn to navigate so many things alongside our clients and must keep trusting that things will always work out for our good. I think that during hard times people have to join forces in a common goal and for the common good.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

Seeing how my clients continually help one another even when they are going through difficulties themselves!

As I share the struggles that their “paisanos” are going through I am amazed how many of my clients still find it in their heart (and their pockets) to drop off a box of food for a hurting family; lend a hand to do storm and tree clean up, or take clothing to the children affected by the tornado!

The Latin community of Chattanooga is amazing in so many ways and I am rewarded every day by both being part of them; and being able to serve them. ¡Juntos somos más fuerte! Amen.

Vivian Anderson-Barrera

FROM: Guatemala Chattanoogan since 2004

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I own Maya Professional Services, volunteer with the Chattanooga Track Club, serve as a trustee for the City of Chattanooga Pension Board and volunteer with a variety of local organizations whenever I get a chance.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

I immediately thought about the gap in communication between the mainstream media and the non English speaking community in Chattanooga. I was consuming all this information via English speaking newspapers, and knew that there would be a gap for those who didn’t have access to these resources. During one of Mayor Berke’s weekly Q&As sessions, he mentioned the need to inform the entire community about the pandemic and ways to help keep each other healthy. I was so glad to hear him say that needed to include Spanish speaking Chattanoogan’s. But I knew we also need to target the large and diverse indigenous Guatemalan’s population that also lives here, and whose primary language is not Spanish. I knew it would be a challenge, but I mentioned it to him and was honored to be asked to sit on the Covid-19 Latino working group.

In my business, handling accounting and tax matters for many locally owned small businesses, I also had to step up to be much more than a financial advisor, and become a listening ear, cheerleader and advocate for clients who, like me, found themselves facing a public health crisis and the threat to their livelihood.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

I adore the women in my family, and feel that my desire to help others is deeply woven in the fabric of our family. My mother and sisters have always been an example to me as to how to serve others. It is a character trait that we have passed along to our own children, and now I truly admire my nieces, who are very active in politics and social justice movements in Georgia. I also admire Chicana author and journalist, Maria Hinojosa. I have followed her career and writing since my 20s and have always admired the way she stays true to her voice and speaks truth to power. Lastly, my clients really inspire me. I have the privilege to work with some of the most innovative, hard-working individuals. And despite all the obstacles 2020 has put before us, they move FORWARD, and do it with grace, humility and ganas! I learn from them every day.

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

Be flexible! And give yourself a break! This truly is a marathon, as a runner, I know how important it is to pace myself on those long, solitary runs. When this all started, it was overwhelming, and I wish I had been able to take a moment to see the forest for the trees. Everything was changing and moving so fast, it felt like everyday was a new challenge. There were moments of quiet, of calm, that I wish I had been able to allow myself to be in.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

Meeting all my clients needs and sometimes failing. I’ve had to admit that I am not the right person to help everyone. When all my life I’ve wanted to help as many people as possible, this year has proven to be a challenge to realize my limits and to learn to say no.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

Two things, spending more time with my daughter, Rosa, who is a senior in high school and will be going away to college next year. And my dog, Frida, whom we rescued the week before we went into quarantine, who makes me get off my computer every couple of hours to play with her. The change in our pace in life, no more running from one meeting to another, seeing each other only during dinner, or if lucky during the weekend, has allowed us to spend more time together.

With 15 years of experience working with the Latino business community in Chattanooga and surrounding areas

15 años de experiencia trabajando con la comunidad empresarial latina en Chattanooga y sus alrededores

Vivian Anderson-Barrera, MA/MPA Maya Professional Services 6960 Lee Hwy Suite #200 Chattanooga TN 37421 423-899-1801

Woman/minority owned, Bilingual, multi-cultural Propietaria Bilingüe y multicultural, Empresaria minoritaria

As our city grows more diverse, it has become obvious that having services that are multi-cultural and bilingual are necessary to ensure successful business enterprises. Let our expertise in launching new businesses, bookkeeping, and accounting services, and respectful client relations translate into a solid foundation for YOUR business.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Guiding new businesses in all matters related to opening, including permitting, registration for all types of enterprises • Bookkeeping, payroll, and accounting services • Tax preparation for personal and business returns • Insurance audits • Tax audits • QuickBooks set up and in-house maintenance • Beer and liquor by the drink licenses

A medida que nuestra ciudad se vuelve más diversa, se ha vuelto obvio que contar con servicios multiculturales y bilingües es necesario para asegurar empresas comerciales exitosas. Deje que nuestra experiencia en el lanzamiento de nuevos negocios, teneduría de libros y servicios contables, y relaciones respetuosas con los clientes, se traduzcan en una base sólida para SU negocio.

NUESTROS SERVICIOS INCLUYEN: • Orientación de nuevas empresas en todos los asuntos relacionados con la apertura, incluidos los permisos, el registro para todo tipo de empresas • Servicios de contabilidad, nómina y contabilidad • Preparación de impuestos para declaraciones personales y comerciales • Auditorías de seguros • Auditorías fiscales • Configuración de QuickBooks y mantenimiento interno • Cerveza y licor por las licencias de bebida

Ezequiel Garcia

FROM: San Anotonio, Texas to Mexican Parents Chattanoogan since 2011

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I work at the Hamilton County Health Department with the communications team focusing primarily on the Hispanic community.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

When the pandemic started, I was working with the pediatrician at the Sequoyah clinic, but realizing the need to communicate with the Hispanic community, the Department of Health approached me for help. At first I hesitated, not because I didn’t want to help but because of a lack of selfconfidence. He did not know if he could fulfill this great responsibility, especially as the rate of positive cases in the Hispanic community was increasing rapidly. During the first days in my new assignment I spent many nights without sleep because I wanted to do my job well, but above all to reach the Hispanic community. Thanks to the support of my wife, my co-workers and the team of interpreters and translators, I began to feel that I could fulfill this responsibility.

Who are some of your own heroes that inspire you?

There are two people who have always inspired me to help others and give my best, and those are my dear parents. From an early age they instilled in me the advice of the Bible such as “there is more happiness in giving than in receiving.” To this day they continue to be a great example for me. During the pandemic they have redoubled their efforts to help others. We all have an innate desire to want to help others, but their example and the biblical advice they instilled in me has allowed me to do so without expecting anything in return. Many times it is easier to share material things but for me it is more valuable to give of our time, love and compassion.

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

Don’t take your loved ones and friends for granted. Remember to do good and share what we have with others. This experience has helped me learn to be more patient with others, but above all with myself. Many times we expect more from ourselves than from others and when we do not achieve what we expected immediately we are very hard on ourselves. Now I strive to take one day at a time and not give up.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

One of the most difficult challenges in 2020 is not being able to hug and kiss my parents because out of love for our neighbors/community and for life itself we have decided not to meet until this crisis is over.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

By following the guidelines given by the Health Department to stay home as much as possible, I have learned to value my wife more. Together we have learned to enjoy God’s creation more when we go for a walk to combat mental fatigue. We have also learned to take more advantage of technology to stay connected with friends and family around the world.

Juan Camilo Florez

FROM: Colombia Chattanoogan since 2000

What do you do for work? What’s your role in the community?

I am one of the shareholders of Top This Roofer, but I consider myself a problem solver and a creator. On top of the roofing, I enjoy helping other businesses grow and achieve their goals. The responsibility that comes with this is normally self-imposed, but I love being able to have the freedom to create businesses and products that in turn help a lot of people; the more the better. In Chattanooga and Atlanta I’m known as the “QR Code Guy”, this started off as a joke 2 years ago, but quickly turned into another passion of mine. Since the average person doesn’t sit around and talk about roofing, I had to get creative. With the help of QR Codes, I created a faster way to connect with others while leaving a lasting impression. No matter where I went people remembered the “QR Code Guy.” I quickly found out that bringing value to others and helping them solve their problems in regards to business was my way to build my network of connections, thus allowing me to be more than just Chattanooga’s Best Roofer.

When we saw a crisis begin to strike our city, what were your first thoughts when deciding to step up for your community?

QR Codes were one of the three concepts we came up with to help with this new normal. We saw the opportunity to show small businesses how they can go contactless with QR Codes, so they can continue to operate. A traditional city like Chattanooga was more difficult to convince than a bigger city like Atlanta, but within 6 months our plan worked. More and more businesses caught on and now over 65% of restaurants in town have adopted the use of QR Codes in their business. Many other types of small businesses are also contacting us to find out how they too can benefit from our services and go contactless. When the tornado destroyed our city in the spring, we spent the first 2 weeks in the affected areas clearing trees, providing water, and at one point passing out food to those that simply couldn’t leave. Our team drove to the affected areas every day until trees weren’t blocking the roads. From there we started tarping roofs with missing shingles and making small roof repairs so that the damage inside didn’t get worse. Little by little, we made progress and were able to make a difference in our community.

When you think back at everything that’s happened this year and what you’ve done, what message do you see telling yourself before all of this happened?

Okay, Juan things are about to get crazy so remember to invest more in the stock market when it’s down. Read more books during the lockdown. Don’t waste precious time, bring immense value to others, learn new skills, give more when times are rough, and be quicker to help others. Guard your mind and stay positive because this too shall pass.

What has been the greatest challenge for you in 2020?

My biggest challenge this year has been to continue to adapt daily. Things got complicated especially in the social and economic environment. There is no real way to have prepared for something like 2020, but It is important to continue educating ourselves so that years like this don’t hit as hard or for too long.

What has been the most rewarding part of 2020?

The most rewarding part of this year was being able to help other people and businesses stay alive during Q1 and Q2 of 2020 and set them up for success for years to come. Overall being able to take something as bad as this pandemic and writing a positive story really changes the narrative. The mainstream media is constantly feeding us lies and fear, it’s so important to step back and remember to smell the flowers and see the positive side. It may be hard at first but there’s a lot of things that went right for us this year. My personal growth, for example, is at an all-time high and I am happy that I was able to develop healthy habits instead of taking another path. We all write our own story, so be positive and keep your head up. One of my favorite people once said, “Take your 10-year plan, and do it in 6 months… you are going to fail, but you will be way further along than if you just sat back and accepted that it was going to take you 10 years.” -Elon Musk. Success leaves clues, it’s so important to never give up especially when things are at their worst.

In Memorium

Andrés Francisco

Small business owner, Tienda La Guatemalteca

Community Volunteer

“Mr. Andrés was instrumental to the early Guatemalan community in Chattanooga. He was an early arrival,

“Janet was

opening a store in 2004, which quickly grew to become a cultural hub for the growing Guatemalan community. Through his service and example, he mentored many newcomers and encouraged many current business owners to take the plunge to open their own businesses. He was highly regarded by all those who knew him. He was kind, and giving and was a pillar of the Guatemalan community. Through his store and the specialized products he sold, he allowed Guatemalan immigrants to keep a connection to their native communities. Through his friendly manner, he made newcomers feel welcomed in a new land.

As the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged our local community, Mr Andrés and his family organized food pantries to benefit his local neighborhood. Unfortunately, this same interaction and contact with his community likely led to his infection of COVID-19. He passed away this summer due to COVID-19 complications. His death has left a void in the local Guatemalan community. As one of the original Guatemalan entrepreneurs in Chattanooga, his passing is a loss not only to his family but to his neighborhood. He is survived by his wife, Maria, and his 5 children and many grandchildren, and the many busidedication to his community. May he rest in power.”

Vivian Anderson Barrera

Janet Miranda

ness owners who were encouraged and mentored by his

an important figure in Chattanooga’s Latino community, and always had a soft spot for people in need. She was always present at our La Paz Cafecitos, even if that meant a long drive from her house to the sites. Janet was a volunteer for La Paz and helped the community greatly after the tornadoes back in April affected a largely Hispanic neighborhood. She took care of a lot of families by distributing food and water, and other needs. She helped La Paz to create a list of the tornado victims so we could contact them and begin case management to help them back on their feet. She helped us to distribute supplies to these families all while risking her wellbeing. We will always remember her passion and willingness to help, even when she was not feeling her best.”

Jessica Cliche,

Director of Community Education and Engagement

Jonathan Hernan Acuña Retired auto mechanic, community supporter, Bible teacher

“Jonathan learned how to drive in 1969 when he first came to the U.S. In his native Colombia he was a surveyor, cobbler, and enjoyed repairing radios and TVs. He loved cars so much he taught himself how to be a mechanic and spent most of his life under the hood of a car. After he retired, he spent most of his time repairing cars for those who couldn't afford the repairs. He didn't mind not getting paid because he knew how much a family's well-being depended on good transportation. He was a friend to neighbors, the elderly, the sick. Many a time he went to hospitals to visit those who didn't have anyone else to care for them. On many Saturdays, you'd find him at church teaching from God's word or preaching. He was a life coach before that was a thing and many sought him for advice and encouragement. His hands were always ready to serve others.

My Dad passed away on June 15 from COVID-19. He loved being an American and had just celebrated 50 years in the U.S. He always felt blessed to live here and taught all of us the importance of giving back and helping others. He was my hero.” Bilda Acuña Small