A celebration of roots and values that span the various cultures of the Hispanic world were on display Sept. 28 at the first Hispanic Community Corporation gala, held at Factoria in Charles Point, Peekskill.
The evening showcased the talents and strengths of Peekskill’s vibrant Latin community. There was talk of unity and perseverance while referencing each culture’s collective heritage that has enriched the life of Peekskill.
The nonprofit Hispanic Community Corporation honored Jeffrey Merchan, Simon Guman, Amy Vele, Carlos Campoverde, Maria Olivier Flores and Wilfredo Morel ‘for their contributions to the Peekskill community as evidenced by their dedication and commitment in everything they do.’
Each honoree received a commendation from the City of Peekskill, read by Mayor Vivian McKenzie.
Jeffrey Merchan, who works for Peekskill Herald, began his journalism career while a senior at Peekskill High School in 2022. He has covered City Hall, breaking news and is now sports editor for the nonprofit digital newspaper. In accepting the award, Merchan referenced the perseverance and dedication of his parents, Juan and Rosalia, who taught him what hard work is and that nothing is impossible and anything can be accomplished. He also expressed gratitude to Peekskill Herald Publisher Regina Clarkin for giving him the opportunity to do what he loves: telling stories that are informative.
Merchan said the award does not only recognize his efforts but also is a tribute to the history and sacrifices of his ancestors, on which he relies as a first generation American. “I will always walk into any room proudly saying I’m an Ecuadorian.”
Simon Guman. who came to the United States in 1998 from Cuenca, Ecuador is a founder of Peekskill Hispanic Corporation and also the youth coordinator for soccer leagues and Copa Peekskill, of which he’s the president.
Maria Olivier Flores, who works for Peekskill City School District, began her career as a social worker in New York City. Flores is now the director of Peekskill City School District’s Learning Enrichment Activities Program (LEAP), which offers afterschool activities that combine help with homework, provide opportunities for physical activities, and encourage new skills. She oversees the afterschool activities for students in grades two through eight.
In accepting her award, Olivier Flores spoke of the honor of being recognized by her community and said the power of Latin heritage lies in its unity. “Unity is our core. We’ll be unstoppable if we organize,” she said.
Amy Vele, who is the youngest trustee of the Peekskill Board of Education, was acknowledged for her contributions to the community and specifically the school district. She was also lauded for her contribution to enriching Peekskill’s culture through the band Amauta that she and her father belong to. Amauta has preserved the traditional rhythms of the Andes for more than 25 years. Vele couldn’t be present for the gala. Her award was accepted by her cousin.
Carlos Campoverde, also from Cuenca Ecuador, has been a deacon at the Church of the Assumption for 14 years, where he is the founder of the Hispanic outreach at the catholic church.
Wildredo Morel emigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic as a teenager in 1976. A sculptor, he is the founder of Arts 10566, a nonprofit organization that sees art as a valuable tool to educate children. He spoke of being humbled by the award and also spoke to the universality of the Latin community and the need to support each other. “Together we can make a difference.”
