Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month - Athletes for Hope

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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

This past Hispanic Heritage Month, Athletes for Hope introduced the theme “Manos Fuertes, Corazón Valiente” (Strong Hands, Brave Heart), a phrase that captures the essence of physical and emotional resilience. It reflects the powerful connection between strength and bravery in both sports and life, and it symbolizes the perseverance, dedication, and courage that are deeply rooted in Hispanic culture. Through this theme, we honored the contributions of Hispanic athletes who embody these values, inspiring others with their stories of resilience and strength.

Cultural Roots
In Hispanic cultures, the concept of manos fuertes (strong hands) represents physical endurance, hard work, and dedication—qualities athletes harness to excel in their sports. But equally important is corazón valiente (brave heart), a reflection of emotional resilience and the courage to face adversity. Together, these values serve as a reminder that achieving greatness takes both strength and heart, a perfect parallel for athletes who push beyond their limits.

Mental Wellness Connection
“Manos Fuertes, Corazón Valiente” also highlights the critical importance of mental wellness in sports. Athletes are more than just their physical accomplishments; they carry the emotional strength needed to navigate challenges, stay motivated, and overcome obstacles. This theme reminds us that success is a balance of both mental and physical endurance, and we celebrate the inner strength that athletes draw from their heritage and experiences.

Voices from Athletes for Hope: Honoring Heritage and Strength

Lorena Rangel Batres
For Lorena, the phrase Manos Fuertes, Corazón Valiente represents the hard work and heart that define the Hispanic community. “As an athlete, it reminds me of the dedication we put into everything we do,” she shared. Lorena’s words emphasize the deep connection between cultural pride and athletic perseverance, reminding us that strength is not just physical but comes from the heart as well.

Gaby Rivera
Gaby, who hails from Guatemala, connects deeply with Manos Fuertes, Corazón Valiente. For her, the phrase symbolizes the extra effort required for those coming from smaller, less-recognized countries to achieve their dreams. “We, as Hispanic people, are brave in pushing our limits, leaving home, and facing new environments,” Gaby explained. She encourages others not to be afraid of being different, saying, “Use every opportunity to share your culture and let people know where you come from.”

Bella Anita Vargas
As Athletes for Hope’s Digital Marketing Manager and a competitive powerlifter, Bella reflected on the role of strength and courage in her own journey. She shared how machismo in Hispanic culture often means women feel they must work twice as hard to prove their strength. Bella emphasized the importance of resilience, stating, “In our culture, giving up is not an option. Being Chingona means being strong, confident, independent, and successful.” Her powerful message for women athletes is to embrace their inner strength and continue to break barriers.

Mina Marie Anglero
Mina Marie, the Whole Being Athlete Manager at Athletes for Hope, discussed how her Puerto Rican heritage intersects with her journey as a former D1 athlete. After facing burnout and chronic injuries, she used her experiences to reconnect with her ancestral roots. “I’ve learned to honor where I come from and bring forth what I represent,” Mina said, encouraging others to explore their heritage and find strength in their identity.

Kendra Coleman
Kendra, the Champs Program Manager at Athletes for Hope and a retired track and field athlete, shared her thoughts on the theme: “I love Manos Fuertes, Corazón Valiente, especially in running. It translates to starting strong and finishing with heart.” Kendra’s reflection highlights how strength and bravery are essential not just in athletic performance but in every new challenge athletes face.

A Message for All Athletes

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of the Hispanic community. Through the theme Manos Fuertes, Corazón Valiente, we honor the athletes who embody these qualities and inspire others with their courage and perseverance. As we continue to celebrate this legacy, we encourage athletes everywhere to embrace their own strength—both physical and emotional—and to honor their heritage with pride.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month from Athletes for Hope!