Miguel Rojas

Attending Advocacy Training 106 with The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade was truly inspiring and informative. I learned so much about how to speak up effectively on issues that matter to my community. The training helped me develop and sharpen important skills and strategies that are needed to be a successful advocate. One thing that really stood out to me was learning about the rules around lobbying and how to stay within legal boundaries while still making a strong impact. It made me realize that advocacy is not just about passion but also about understanding how to work within the system to create real change. I also appreciated how the training focused on the bigger picture of promoting fairness and equality for everyone. It was motivating to see how local and state policies can be influenced by people like me who are willing to stand up and speak out. After attending this training, I feel more confident and ready to take action. I want to use the tools and knowledge I gained to support causes that matter and help build a more just and equitable community for all. This experience reminded me that change is possible when we come together, stay informed, and keep pushing forward.

Volunteering with First United Methodist Church of Miami was more than just a chance to give back. It was a reminder of the power of kindness and human connection. We weren’t just handing out food to people in need or experiencing homelessness. We were showing them that someone cares, that they’re seen, and that they matter.

One thing someone said that stuck with me was, “We’re not just giving food, we’re passing out smiles.” And that’s exactly what it felt like. The meals were important, of course, but the real impact came from the eye contact, the warm greetings, the small conversations, and the shared laughter. Some people smiled with relief, others with gratitude, and some just seemed happy to be treated with dignity.

It made me realize how easy it is to overlook those who are struggling, especially in a busy city like Miami. But standing there, handing out meals and talking to people face to face, made it all personal. These were people with stories, with hopes, with challenges, just like the rest of us.

This experience taught me that giving doesn’t always have to be big or complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as showing up, offering a warm plate of food, and sharing a genuine smile. And sometimes, that’s exactly what someone needs the most.

Participating in the mental health awareness event was a powerful and eye-opening experience for me. From the moment we began setting up to actually taking part in the activities, I felt a real connection not just with the earth around me, but with myself.

One of the most memorable parts was facing our fears by holding beehives. At first, the idea of being so close to bees was intimidating, even scary. But standing there, feeling their gentle buzz and learning about their role in nature, I realized how often fear comes from misunderstanding. It was a lesson in courage, trust, and respect not just for the bees but for my own limits and growth.

Beyond that, the event also emphasized the importance of feeding our bodies in healthy ways. Through the activities and conversations, I learned practical tips about nourishing myself physically as a part of mental wellness. It reminded me that caring for our minds and bodies goes hand in hand.

Overall, this event showed me that healing and strength come from connection, whether it’s connecting to the earth, to others, or to our own inner courage. I walked away with new perspectives and tools to support my mental health in everyday life.

Paula Lucero  1 año Hace the hours have been checked

Writing a letter to Rafa, an elder living in Puerto Rico, was a small act that ended up meaning a lot to me. In a world where everything moves fast and most conversations happen through screens, sitting down to write a letter felt different. It felt personal, quiet, and real.

Knowing that Rafa was someone who longed for connection made every word matter more. I found myself wondering about his life, what the weather was like where he lived, what memories he held close, and what brought him joy or comfort. I wanted my letter to feel like a visit, a small moment of warmth in his day.

I shared a bit about myself and asked about his favorite things like music, food, or stories from his youth. Even though we’re strangers on paper, the act of reaching out created a bridge between us. It reminded me how deeply we all need to feel seen and remembered, no matter our age or where we are in the world.

This experience showed me that human connection doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is a letter, a little time, and the intention to let someone know they matter. I hope Rafa felt the care in my words because I truly meant them. And in writing to him, I felt that connection too.

When I first signed up to write letters to the elderly, I didn’t expect it to mean as much as it did. I figured it would be something small and kind to do, but I didn’t realize how connected I’d feel to someone I’d never even met—like Charles.

Writing to Charles made the whole experience feel real and personal. I didn’t just write a letter—I thought about what might make him smile, what his days might be like, and how my words could bring him a little joy. I shared things about my life, random stories, and even asked him about his favorite memories or hobbies. Even though I haven’t heard back, I like to imagine him reading the letter and maybe chuckling at one of my silly jokes or nodding at something familiar.

The act of sitting down, slowing my thoughts, and writing to someone like Charles made me realize how powerful human connection really is. It reminded me that kindness doesn’t need to be loud or flashy. A few honest words on paper can go a long way—especially for someone who might just need to feel remembered.

This experience didn’t just help me give back—it made me more thoughtful, more present, and more aware of how much small actions can matter. I hope Charles felt a little warmth from my letter, because I know I felt a lot of it just writing to him.

Paula Lucero  1 año Hace hours have been checked

Attending The Women’s Breast and Heart Initiative event was such a powerful and moving experience. It was more than just an event; it felt like a safe and supportive space where women came together to learn, share, and lift each other up. Hearing stories from survivors and health advocates reminded me how important early detection and awareness really are.

What really touched me was how committed the initiative is to reaching women in all communities, especially those that are often overlooked. It wasn’t just about statistics or medical advice; it was about real lives, real stories, and showing love through education and action.

I left the event feeling inspired to take better care of my own health and to encourage the women around me to do the same. I’m so grateful I had the chance to be part of something so meaningful and life changing.

Volunteering with First United Methodist Church of Miami was more than just a chance to give back. It was a reminder of the power of kindness and human connection. We weren’t just handing out food to people in need or experiencing homelessness. We were showing them that someone cares, that they’re seen, and that they matter.

One thing someone said that stuck with me was, “We’re not just giving food, we’re passing out smiles.” And that’s exactly what it felt like. The meals were important, of course, but the real impact came from the eye contact, the warm greetings, the small conversations, and the shared laughter. Some people smiled with relief, others with gratitude, and some just seemed happy to be treated with dignity.

It made me realize how easy it is to overlook those who are struggling, especially in a busy city like Miami. But standing there, handing out meals and talking to people face to face, made it all personal. These were people with stories, with hopes, with challenges, just like the rest of us.

This experience taught me that giving doesn’t always have to be big or complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as showing up, offering a warm plate of food, and sharing a genuine smile. And sometimes, that’s exactly what someone needs the most.

Attending NAMI’s Ending the Silence event was a powerful and emotional experience. It helped me realize just how many people are silently struggling with their mental health, especially young individuals who may not know how to ask for help. Listening to the personal stories shared by the speakers made it clear that mental illness does not have a specific face or background and that it can affect anyone. The event reminded me how important it is to create safe spaces for open conversations, to be a better listener, and to show more empathy toward others. I left feeling not only more aware but also motivated to be part of the change by supporting mental health awareness and helping others feel less alone.