We asked some very thoughtful members of our community to reflect on what they’ve learned from their heroes.

Oscar Zapien

My hero’s are my parents, Abundio and Leticia Zapien. They both sacrificed and immigrated to the United States of America from Mexico during the mid 70’s with the sole hope that life could be better. That dreams could be realized. That the sacrifice would bear fruit. Read more>>

Theresa Delgado

My hero isn’t one person, it’s actually two…my parents. They have always been incredibly supportive and encouraging. I know that my confidence to try new things or to put myself out there would not be what it is without them. Read more>>

Jamie Robarge

Without a doubt, my son Brooklyn is my hero. When I was pregnant, I worked in retail management, a place I was complacent about being in forever. I was fortunate to receive a ten-month maternity leave after my son was born. During that time, I was 100% solely focused on being a mom. When my maternity leave ended, my position was eliminated, Read more>>

Bethany Pendleton

My hero first and foremost is my husband. He is active duty Air Force and has served in Afghanistan. He knew I was into photography since I started as a freelancer in 2019. However, he was the person who convinced me to strive for more. Being a military spouse we are faced with the constant stress of if we are moving and if so how soon. Because of this, I knew I wanted a career that I could start in one location, but relocate with if we were to draw orders during an upcoming PCS season. Read more>>

Antoine Lee James Rakestraw

My hero I’d have to say is my dad. He taught me about work ethic, respect, business and how to adapt to changing situations. He used to say, if you wanna be something, do something. Because it’s easy to do nothing, you follow me?! My dad left his 9-5 to open his own business. Saw him get up each morning and give 100 percent. Read more>>