Tampa Electric team members recently attended a panel discussion at the Hispanic Services Council’s annual networking breakfast.
(Left to Right: Diane Vargas, Mike Suter, Jason Sizemore, TJ Modlin, Luis Valdes, Michele Arevalo, Marc Imhof and Nadia Salcedo.)
“Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” -- Oprah Winfrey.
That power and energy is exactly what 250 audience members recently felt at the Hispanic Services Council’s (HSC) annual networking breakfast event. As one of the organization’s legacy sponsors, Tampa Electric helps support HSC’s mission to increase access and opportunities for Latinos throughout Hillsborough County.
“It feels incredible to work for a company that values the Hispanic population and the merit that this group of people brings to our community,” said Michele Arevalo, Director of High-Performance Computing & BP Supt. for Tampa Electric. “This relationship not only helps those in need, but it helps Tampa Electric to be visible in the community.”
As a second-generation Tampa native, Michele is more than an advocate of HSC. She has served as one of the organization’s board members for 19 years; continuously using her passion to help others.
“Seeing first-hand how this organization’s mission can truly transform lives keeps me coming back,” said Michelle.
As part of the community since 1992, HSC transforms lives through information, education, resources and advocacy. Its annual networking breakfast, called “Integration: The Latino Immigrant Experience,” included a panel discussion where four guests shared their integration stories. This impactful discussion showed the large crowd, which included Michele and seven other Tampa Electric team members, exactly how HSC has assisted individuals while allowing them to get grounded in their new community.
“The journey of belonging can be challenging, particularly in a new country,” said Michele. "HSC’s programs are designed to bridge the cultural and social gaps to achieve our vision of an educated, healthy, prosperous and engaged Latino community.”
Thanks to organizations like HSC, and support from sponsors such as Tampa Electric, more community members than ever are receiving help integrating. Michele’s commitment to this effort is a perfect example of the powerful impact we all can make when we focus on our passion.
