Tag: Veterans

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Community Heroes: Elizabeth Nuñez

Elizabeth Nuñez recently celebrated her one-year anniversary as the Deputy Director of MusArt Music Management (MusArt).

Although she has been part of the organization for many years, it was only last year that Nuñez was formally asked to join the executive board of the organization to represent it and help it grow further.

MusArt, led by Daniel Guzman, a decorated combat marine, unites communities through music and entertainment, encompassing all facets of the music industry, from production to talent. Nuñez serves as the backbone that keeps it all running smoothly, and she shares a longstanding friendship with Daniel since childhood.

Her commitment to lending a helping hand and offering hope to those in need was sparked when, as a child, Nuñez witnessed the kindness of a stranger.

Despite grappling with personal medical issues, including Lupus, an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its own tissues, Nuñez passionately champions various causes, from animals to veterans and mental health.

With all this already on her plate, you might think she would be content, but Nuñez has added another role to her already impressive resume and life accomplishments.

She has taken up the position of treasurer for Pa’lante Para Todos Incorporated, a nonprofit subdivision of MusArt dedicated to humanitarian work within the community. Their inaugural unveiling took place earlier in the month at the Puerto Rican Day parade in Manhattan.

During our interview, Nuñez became emotional when explaining the driving force behind her actions. She concluded with these tearful words: “I do what I do to give hope to others facing problems like mine and to inspire them, showing that it doesn’t have to keep us down.”

Based on everything I have witnessed over the past two years, I have no doubt that this is just the beginning of an already impressive career and body of work.

If you would like to be featured in our Community Heroes series or would like to nominate someone, please contact Gonzalo Duran at gonzalodurannyc@gmail.com.

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City Council Candidate Gonzalo Duran Press Release Sep 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 16, 2023

Press Contact: Theresa Kemp at emmpinc@gmail.com or Gonzalo Duran at gonzalodurannyc@gmail.com                                   

 A Fresh Voice for Bronx City Council

Gonzalo Duran has successfully advanced to the general elections for a City Council seat in District 17 on his second campaign attempt

Bronx, NY – “I am thrilled to have reached the general elections. This marks my third official bid for an elected office position. This year posed unique challenges coming out of the pandemic, but I’ve spent years building a strong foundation, and it has paid off,” said Duran.

Duran, the Chief Executive Officer of Devil Dog USA Incorporated, a nonprofit in the Bronx, has maintained his community involvement while campaigning. “I made a deliberate choice not to reduce my community work during the campaign. The issues we face locally are interconnected with the challenges at the city level,” Duran explained.

He continues to stand by his commitment to take a 50% pay reduction if elected, with the intention of reallocating those funds to hire additional staff for outreach and programs. “My stance on the pay reduction is a step toward demonstrating leadership. The current performance of those in office does not warrant the pay increase they granted themselves a few years ago,” Duran asserted. “I aim to lead by example, setting a precedent not only for the city council members but also for our constituents. Someone has to take the first step, and as a leader, I am ready to lead and pledge to do so.”

Duran reflected on the long journey that brought him to this point. “From the outset, I committed to myself that I would reach this stage. I knew I would face numerous challenges, especially from opposition. Yet, with a dedicated team and a keen understanding of the city’s political landscape, I knew it was achievable,” he affirmed.

Duran would like to remind everyone that Election Day is on November 7th, with the Early Voting period spanning from October 28th to November 5th.

For more information about Duran and his community work, please visit www.gonzaloduran.nyc/.

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Gonzalo Duran’s Speech – NYS Veterans’ Services Kiok Unveiling

Good afternoon, everyone. I am Gonzalo Duran, the Chief Executive Officer of Devil Dog USA Incorporated.

Ten years ago, our journey began with a commitment to address student veteran homelessness. Over time, we evolved into an organization dedicated to aiding veterans in their community reintegration, with the invaluable support of our communities.

As we elevated the issue of student veteran homelessness to a national platform, we recognized that it was not a solitary problem. To effect real change, we required the collaboration of the very communities we served.

This led to the inception of programs like our recreational initiatives, which encompass golfing, scuba diving, and camping. This year marks the ninth year of our golf program and the sixth year of our cable talk show, a platform where organizations and individuals share resources for both veterans and the general populace.

Our offices serve as a central resource hub for our community, offering referral services, event space, and various other functions. Notably, we take great pride in our partnership with the Bronx Veteran Chamber of Commerce, empowering emerging organizations with fiscal sponsorship, grant writing support, and operational resources.

Our work with the Bronx Veteran Coalition has facilitated the alignment of diverse organizations that might not typically engage, enabling them to discover common ground. This, in turn, has enhanced collective productivity and mission fulfillment. Our initiatives involve pairing active-duty military personnel with Junior ROTC, enlisting American Legions to serve as honor guards for families unable to provide military services for their loved ones, and organizing classroom discussions where children, teenagers, and veterans can exchange their perspectives.

Our collaboration with the Bronx Veteran Political Party has amplified our efforts to educate veterans about running for elected positions and increasing voter registration.

Through our work with the Bronx Veteran Documentary project, we’ve captured the stories of local veterans, facilitated businesses in enhancing their digital presence, and provided cherished digital family portraits to families in shelters.

Despite the pandemic’s challenges, the demand for our programs never wavered. As restrictions eased, we found ourselves with more work than ever, prompting the opening of a second office next month, which will serve as a community center.

This center embodies our commitment to fostering unity among the general population, veterans, and military members as one cohesive community.

In closing, I would like to express my gratitude to the New York State Department of Veterans Services for inviting me to speak. Just as we unveil this welcome kiosk today, I eagerly anticipate welcoming all veterans to New York City. Thank you.