NEIGHBORS FIRST
Building a Stronger Queens:
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END FANCY FEES: End Predatory Billing and fees by Banks, Utilities and Cable / Internet Providers.
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NO to CITY OF YES: Oppose City of Yes initiative that takes away our right to live in our neighborhoods our way, The Queens Way.
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NO to Congestion Pricing: Queens residents drive into Manhattan because they have to, not because they want to. Congestion Pricing like all predatory billing seeks to take our hard-earned wages out of our pockets.
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Community Board MemberCommunity Board Member: Queens Community Board 9
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Board Member Neighborhood Advisory Board 9 (NAB): NYC Department of Youth & Community Development
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Member Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships: Office of the Mayor of New York City
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Board Member Civic Engagement Committee: Office of the Queens Borough President
Putting My Experience
to Work
ABOUT RUBÉN
Building a Stronger Community:
My Vision for Our District
A Place Where Everyone Thrives
My vision for our district is vibrant and inclusive. I see children of all backgrounds playing together, seniors enjoying activities at the community center, and a bustling atmosphere where people can easily get to work. This is the kind of environment I want to help create.
Growing Up in Queens
I'm a proud Puerto Rican native of Queens. Though we weren't wealthy, my childhood summers were filled with joy. We'd ride the train, noses pressed against the windows, and sometimes even snag a spot at the front for breathtaking views on our way to Rockaway Beach. These experiences instilled in me the value of community and spending quality time with loved ones.
Business Acumen with a Heart for Service
As a business owner, I've navigated challenges like the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these obstacles only fueled my creativity. I found innovative ways to serve the community, particularly focusing on health and wellness programs for seniors and children, as well as arts and culture initiatives. My dedication extends beyond my business ventures. I actively serve on multiple non-profit boards, including the Latin American Intercultural Alliance.
Leading Through Crisis
During the COVID-19 crisis, I recognized the need to support our community in unique ways. Partnering with various organizations, I established the first-ever "Queens Pet Pantry," providing essential supplies to pet owners struggling financially.
I also spearheaded the "Food for the Soul" event, a collaborative effort with NYCNext, several city departments, and community organizations. This uplifting event featured live music, a clothing drive, and a beautiful art installation – a heart wreath floated out to sea in remembrance of those affected by COVID-19.
As the sun set that evening, I saw some of the flowers washing back ashore. It served as a powerful metaphor for our community – we may face challenges, but we are resilient and come back stronger together.
This is the spirit of collaboration and innovation I bring to the table. I'm ready to work alongside all of you to build a brighter future for our district.
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