The concept of generational responsibility and the hard work that goes into improving our lives and the lives of others was instilled in me from birth by my parents. My father was my prime example and especially instrumental in shaping my life and career. As a leader in New York’s Puerto Rican community, he worked both at the grassroots level and with elected officials to improve the lives of our community. He was admired for his commitment, leadership and genuineness. The lessons I learned from him continue to drive me personally and professionally, as do the inequities I witnessed and lived through growing up in the housing projects of the South Bronx. These inequities persist to this day in neighborhoods, cities and towns across the country. I share my father’s quest to work to make the American Dream a reality for everyone, using systemic approaches that have long-lasting impact. It is why I’ve spent my career in organizations focused on serving others in the areas of education, health, social services and community empowerment. Changing systems to improve lives is one of the most challenging reforms one can take on, but as my father always said: “Nothing worth doing is ever easy.”