Get to know us
Founded in 2024
Small actions create big changes. Be part of the difference.
Our association was born from the deep desire to make a difference in the lives of those who feel forgotten, especially within the Hispanic community in San Antonio and in Guatemala. Over the years, we have witnessed the countless challenges many families face: the lack of resources to start their own businesses, the barrier of limited access to quality education, and the lack of tools that would allow them to improve their living conditions.
Often, we encounter people full of potential, yet trapped by circumstances that seem insurmountable. That’s when we decided we couldn’t stand by. We knew that together, we could make a difference. So, with hard work and hearts full of hope, we founded our association. We created a support network based on solidarity, where every gesture, no matter how small, would have a real and lasting impact.
Today, thanks to this network, we provide entrepreneurship opportunities, educational resources, and training programs. We help those who want to move forward but don’t have the tools to do so. Because we believe true change starts with mutual support and the determination to offer everyone the chance to build a better future.
This dream is still alive and grows every day, driven by the hope that a future full of opportunities is within everyone’s reach.
Mission
At Hispanos Unidos por el Progreso, our mission is to empower the Hispanic community in San Antonio, Texas, by providing access to education, social development, and financial resources for entrepreneurs. We also extend our support to Guatemala, helping communities in need through initiatives that promote well-being and sustainable growth. We believe in the power of knowledge, solidarity, and mutual support as tools to transform lives.
Vision
Our vision is to create a thriving and self-sufficient Hispanic community where every individual has the opportunities and tools needed to reach their full potential. We aim to build a support network that transcends borders, bringing hope and opportunities to both San Antonio and Guatemala, generating a positive and lasting impact.
Essence
Our essence is rooted in service, empathy, and solidarity. We believe in the potential of every person and their ability to overcome challenges. We are motivated by the satisfaction of seeing others grow and achieve their goals. Hispanos Unidos por el Progreso is more than an organization; it is a movement based on collaboration, inclusion, and the belief that when we help others, we create a better future for everyone.
Meet Our Team
Come and meet our team! We are an association in San Antonio, dedicated to supporting and strengthening our community.
Heidee C. Matos
President
Vilmarie Pena
Director and Secretary
Wilson Ramirez
Director
This Is My Story
I am Heidee C. Matos Ramírez, a woman committed to service and the empowerment of the Hispanic community. I was born on February 8, 1978, in Puerto Rico, and since 2008, I have resided in San Antonio, Texas, where I have dedicated my life to helping people achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
My academic background includes a Bachelor's degree in Tourism, Travel Agency, and Hospitality from the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and a Master's degree in Business Administration from National College, Online Division. Throughout my career, I have worked in various areas related to customer service, entrepreneurship, and consulting, always with the mission of adding value to those around me.
I am a family-oriented woman, married to Mr. Rony W. Ramírez Gómez, who is of Guatemalan origin. My passion and essence lie in serving others, which led me to found Hispanos Unidos por el Progreso, a nonprofit organization born from my deep desire to provide opportunities to the Hispanic community in San Antonio and extend help to those in need in Guatemala.
I believe in people, in their capacity for growth and transformation. It fills me with satisfaction to see individuals and families achieve their goals, overcome obstacles, and build a better future. Hispanos Unidos por el Progreso is more than a project for me: it is a life mission, a way to give back to the community for all it has given me and to be a bridge to new opportunities for those seeking to progress.
If there is one thing that defines my purpose, it is the certainty that when we help others grow, we grow together.
Vilmarie Peña Santiago
She was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and is a professional dedicated to the administrative field. Currently, she serves as the director and secretary of Hispanos Unidos por el Progreso, where she contributes to the organization and management of initiatives in favor of the Hispanic community in San Antonio, Texas, as well as support projects in Guatemala. With her experience as an administrative assistant, she plays a key role in the structure and efficiency of the organization, ensuring that its operations run successfully and fulfill its mission of empowerment and progress.
Rony Wilson Ramírez Gómez
He was born in Guatemala on August 1, 1989. He is a community leader passionate about social development and the well-being of his native country. Currently, he serves as the director of Hispanos Unidos por el Progreso, a nonprofit organization that works to strengthen the Hispanic community in San Antonio, Texas, and extend its impact to Guatemala.
His primary focus is on providing support to underserved communities in Guatemala, driving projects in education, social development, and humanitarian aid. Through his leadership, he seeks to create opportunities that help improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations in his country. His commitment to service and solidarity has made him a key pillar in the efforts of aid and progress in Guatemala.
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