COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Horacio Poveda is the President of the Rotary Club in Jackson Heights, one of the 29,000 branches of the club across the world. Through this nonprofit organization, Poveda has had the opportunity to help poor children from around the globe who suffer from heart problems. Along with the association Cardioinfantil from Colombia, the Rotarians have helped more than 300 children in Colombia, according to Poveda. Also, the club organizes health fairs in Jackson Heights to inform the community and once a year they give breakfast to workers from the area.
PERSONAL: This 53-year-old Colombian native of Bogotá came to the United States in 1981 after studying molecular biology and biochemistry. In 1993, he retired and formed Servientrega, a Colombian shipment company and in 2005, along with four other people, they expanded the business in Jackson Heights. “When I am working, I thank God for being able to help disadvantaged people,” said Poveda.
JOB: Poveda is one of the owners of Caracol Radio in the tri-state area, which broadcasts news about Colombia and Colombians in the region. “To accomplish the American dream, people have to study and learn English and not think about long term goals,” Poveda said. “This country gives us big opportunities.”
PROUDEST MOMENT: “Something that makes me vibrate is when sick children come here looking purple and after the surgery, they are children completely healthy and full of happiness,” said Poveda. “That is priceless because you can not keep the tears from welling up in your eyes.”
FAVORITE MEMORY: For Poveda, the day that he got married and the birth of his children have been the favorite moments in his life.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE: According to Poveda, people create challenges for themselves and the small goals that he sets for himself everyday are the challenges in his life.
INSPIRATION: “My dad was my biggest inspiration,” said Poveda, who added that he is thankful for all the teachings and for everything he learned from his father.
