By: Ashmar Mandou

As we continue our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize the achievements and contributions of our local heroes, from their philanthropy, to their passion for inspiring the next generation of Latinos, to beautifying one’s own neighborhood with positive messages. You needn’t look too far for inspiration as we highlight three individuals for their work in the community.

Liz Flores
Muralist
You can find her work throughout the city celebrating women of all shapes and cultural backgrounds with her evocative murals. This year, she was tasked with the mission to create a mural that would resonate with the Pilsen community to address COVID and vaccine preparedness. Her mural, which is located at 1856 S. Ashland, depicts three women conversing at the kitchen table giving residents something to talk about. “I wanted to show a very personal setting that highlights the joy of getting back together,” said the artist, Liz Flores. “Recently, after not being able to see my grandmother for a year because of COVID, myself, my family and my grandma were all vaccinated and I was able to reunite with her. We had a girls’ night with my grandma and sister where we shared old stories and ate Cuban food. This artwork is meant to depict that moment by featuring three women seated around a table and listening to stories of the past year while eating and drinking cafe con leche, green olives and plantains.” The new Chicago mural is part of Lysol’s ongoing efforts to promote COVID-19 vaccine education and awareness. If you would like to see the work Liz Flores, you can follow her on Instagram on @Lizitto.

Cubs Charities

The Cubs Charities is an organization that supports Latino leaders and the Chicago youth all across the city on and off the field. Throughout the Hispanic Heritage Month, we highlight the individuals committed to making a positive impact on their communities.

Jennifer Vergara
Cubs Scholar
Jennifer Vergara is a senior at Jones College Prep and 2021 Cubs Scholar. Vergara is an officer with the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS), a program created at Jones College Prep for Latin American students to have a space to discuss issues Latinx face to promote active civil participation and the advancement of all people. “As an ALAS officer, I have had the opportunity to spread awareness on issues in the Hispanic community, mentor children preparing for high school, and embrace different cultures,” says Vergara. “There are different ways to serve your community, and ALAS has shown me the importance of contributing and giving back.”    
 
Tony Rodriguez
Little Village Little League and Cubs RBI All-Star Coach
The old adage goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” For Rodriguez this couldn’t ring truer as he spends his time giving back by creating a positive and safe experience for the youth in Little Village. Rodriguez started coaching in Little Village where he learned about Cubs Charities and was eager to get involved.  “Cubs Charities provides programs that have a positive impact on youth both on and off the field. I believe that Cubs Charities is all about helping every young athlete who wants to continue to play baseball at a higher level,” said Rodriguez.