GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY:

AN UNCOMMON ROLE MODEL

As the plane left the runway Ana Maria Correa’s heart filled with mixed emotions. It was 1958 and a new life en Las Americas awaited her. Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, she had never dreamed of leaving her island. But, after many unsuccessful attempts to secure a dependable job, she decided that the sacrifices might someday be worthwhile. Therefore, on an early spring evening she left the island in search of an opportunity. It was exciting to be on the plane. Yet her heart was overcome with distress. The single mother of six had left behind her children, Jose Ramon, Rosa Edna, Angel Manuel, Anania de Jesus, Blas Manuel and Jorge Antonio, in the care of her mother and she already missed their demand for attention. Shortly upon arriving in Springfield, MA, she began working in the tobacco fields in Windsor, CT. Even during the hot summer days when working under the harsh weather conditions made it nearly impossible to make sense of her goals, Ana Maria found strength within to dream of better days.

In 1960, Ana Maria was able to bring her children to Springfield. As the children became older, they also worked to contribute to the family livelihood. Still, life had its setbacks. When Jorge, her youngest child, became stricken with a life threatening illness, Ana Maria could no longer work. She turned to the Department of Welfare for assistance. However, whenever the opportunity became available, she volunteered her time. Ana Maria said, “I needed to give back and I wanted to show that I was in need not by choice.”

Ana Maria volunteered in various organizations, including the Red Cross, Spanish American Union and the Gray House in the North End of Springfield. The volunteer opportunities helped her stay connected with others. While volunteering for the Spanish American Union, she was given the task of planning and organizing what is now El Centro de Amigos (Center for Friends), a senior group that gathers in the basement of Blessed Sacrament Church on Harriet Street every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:00 AM – 12:45 PM.

Ana Maria is now 78 years of age. She is an active member in our community. She is a poet and playwright. She is visibly involved in many social and civic groups and is a member of Blessed Sacrament Church. In 2001, she became the runner up in the Mrs. Isla del Encanto (a senior pageant). Currently Ana Maria is trying to get support and resources to establish a permanent senior center in the North End, that will be accessible to everyone, including those in wheelchairs who currently are unable to enter the basement of the church. Ana Maria Correa is truly a woman of courage, devotion and commitment. She exemplifies one of the best role models in the Latino community. n