es · paz · io

My dear babies,  For the past three years, it has been my greatest honor, pleasure, and privilege to serve Voces and the Latino community of Battle Creek. Hands down, it has been the best job I have ever had. However, the time has come for me to spread my wings and fly away to Brooklyn. New York City! My time with Voces has come to an end.  I used to think that my greatest accomplishment was graduating from the University of Michigan. This is not true. You are all my greatest accomplishment. Bringing the Youth Council together is my greatest accomplishment. Creating a space where you all feel listened to and respected is my greatest accomplishment. Watching you all become young adults thriving, moving forward, and impacting your community in such a positive way is my greatest accomplishment. I treasure each and every single one of you more than you can even imagine. You have truly given me life these past three years. The time that we have spent together during YC meetings, sorting clothes, walking around MSU, painting, washing cars, having balloon fights, filling out scholarship applications, completing the FAFSA, making resumes, going on scavenger hunts, flying airplanes, dancing at your quinceañeras, swinging from giant high swings, watching all kinds of movies, walking the streets of Hollywood, I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am a better person because of all of you. I am a stronger person because of all of you.  You have let me into your lives and I could not be more grateful for that. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much. The strength and bravery that I witness in all of you gives me goosebumps (the good kind). You are all the bravest bunch I know and I am in awe of you. I am your biggest fan and biggest supporter. I will always be in each of your corners cheering you on.  I have no doubt in my mind that all of you will continue to be leaders and role models in your families and in your community. Remember that while you are all individuals (and should always celebrate your individuality unapologetically), you are part of something bigger. I know I've said this so many times to all of you: You don't just represent yourself. You represent your families, Battle Creek, and the Latino community. You aren't the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders of RIGHT NOW. Lean on each other and support each other ALWAYS. You are NOT in competition with each other. Our planet needs each and every single one of us! And none of us can do it alone.  While I am physically leaving Battle Creek, I will carry all of you in my heart with me wherever I go, always.  During the YC meeting on Wednesday, September 3rd from 6-8pm, please feel free to stop by Voces and see me off!