In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we want to celebrate some of the folks who have contributed to our ever evolving and growing community. We asked some of our staff with Hispanic Heritage to tell us their story and share some of the lessons they’ve learned throughout the years.
MONICA ARANDA
Director of Member Services, Management Support
she/her
How would you describe your cultural identity?
Oh wow, my cultural identity? I identify as a cis, straight, and able-bodied Mexican American with Italian roots.
Who is your biggest influence and why?
My biggest influence is my parents. I could fill the entire internet with reasons why they are my biggest influences but here is the short and sweet answer.
My mother is the most giving person I have ever met. I hope that I DO end up like her when I get older, it would be an honor.
My dad is the most driven man, we always say we are a bunch of MexiCANs because of my dad. When I get down or feel like I am taking on too much, I think about my dad, sit back up, and push on. If he can come to the US in his 20’s and make an American Dream come true, I can do anything.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in the last year?
Many say 2020 was a dumpster fire (and it was) but there were so many silver linings along the way. The biggest lesson I learned this year was don’t take life for granted. 2020 really made you sit with yourself, quite literally, at home… with your thoughts and those around you.
I am thankful for my family and friends, my good health, my living situation, the company I work for, and for the members who supported us.
What kind of advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
Ha! Where to begin…? How about, invest your money wisely.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Celebrate tradition, culture, family stories, recipes and listen to my Abuelo’s favorite mariachi songs.
What is something you’re most proud of?
Raising a toddler while also working simultaneously during a pandemic (that fluctuated like the wind) all without childcare. I know there are a lot of us out there. YOU DID A GREAT JOB!
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is making people’s days better, whether it be my co-workers or the customers, I just love it. I cannot please everyone but when I do :).
MARIO GUILLEN
Manager at Hollywood Boulders
he/him
How would you describe your cultural identity?
I would identify as Hispanic.
Who is your biggest influence and why?
My biggest influence would have to be my grandparents. They were hard working, honest, loving individuals and I try to carry those traits with me in my personal and professional life.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in the last year?
How to be uncomfortable. This past year was hard for everyone. Learning how to navigate discomfort, accept and overcome it has been priceless.
What kind of advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
Don’t worry what others think of you. Focus on finding out who you are and embrace it.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage month is more of a reminder to be thankful of my roots. To be thankful for my family. To be proud of my culture and traditions that have shaped who I am.
What is something you’re most proud of?
Never giving up on my aspirations. That drive has lead me to where I am today.
What’s the best part of your job?
For most us, the gym is our second home. Being able to create community and make everyone feel welcomed in this space. That is easily the best part of my job.
MARIE GARRINGER
Manager at MetalMark
she/her
How would you describe your cultural identity?
I consider myself a Hispanic with traditional Mexican customs. My Dad is from Mexico and my Mom was from Texas.
Who is your biggest influence and why?
My parents. My Dad helped support his family when they came from Mexico. He quit school in the 6th grade to help feed his family of 9. Since he was the eldest he helped his Dad feed the family, buy clothes, helped with shelter, etc. He taught me to work hard, treat others like I want to be treated, don’t take anything for granted, work hard and you can be anything you want to be and don’t let anyone tell me different. My Mom taught me how to be kind and accepting of everyone and don’t judge people. She taught me that family was the most important thing in life.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in the last year?
Not to be judgmental and be more patient.
What kind of advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
Learn to relax! To this day I still can’t relax or sit still. It’s something I wish I had learned when I was younger. I was taught “an idle body is an idle mind”.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Brings awareness and recognition of the contributions that Latins have brought to this country. It’s a month to celebrate our history, culture and customs brought over from our ancestors.
What is something you’re most proud of?
That I’m still physically fit and in good health. I’m a survivor of cancer and had a positive attitude throughout all my procedures.
What’s the best part of your job?
Working with a great group of people and a great community. Working for Touchstone is the best job I’ve ever had.
If you could have any super power what would it be?
To have everyone get along and be kind to one another. I know it’s not a power, but if I had the power to “zap” people so there is no discrimination of any kind, that everyone could just get along, and be kind to one another that would be great!
