Today we’d like to introduce you to Soraya Rivera-Moya.
Hi Soraya, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico in a loving and very united family. I was raised with three brothers and very happy childhood. After pursuing my Bachelor’s in Journalism and Masters in Public Relations, I started working at a local advertising agency where the McDonald’s account in advertising was handled. There I learned many aspects of advertising, promotions and marketing. It was an incredible experience but after four years, I decided to pursue a big move and move to Miami, Florida to manage the same account but in a different agency. This is where I first learned about Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida.
In 2002, I was promoted to Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida, a nonprofit organization that provides temporary lodging for parents who have sick children being treated at Holtz Children’s Hospital in Downtown Miami. Here is where I learned my true passion about philanthropy and charity.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Moving to a new city and country without knowing anyone was one of my greatest challenges. But with time, I have embraced Miami as my second home. I love the different cultures, its people and how it has grown to be one of the most powerful cities of the United States.
My main challenge is always finding the ways, the means, the ideas and connections to be able to meet the fundraising goals stipulated by the Board of Directors and continue with operations of the facility. Every year the organization has to raised $2 million dollars to keep the doors open and provide the services. Many of the challenges are related to economy, pandemic and other worldwide crises that affect how an organization needs to rely on donations and corporate relationships to keep the mission alive.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My favorite part of my role as Executive Director is the opportunity to connect the generosity and kindness of our community and inspire others to bring comfort and care to sick children and their families while they stay at the Ronald McDonald House.
The inspiration of what I do every day are the children that stay at the Ronald McDonald House. We helped the sickest children whose lives depend on medical treatment. I am fortunate to see the kids and their parents every day as my office is inside the Ronald McDonald House. Even the sickest children give you a smile when they are on their way to the hospital. My role is to make sure their parents are comfortable and they can focus on their child. Along with my team, we recruit donors, volunteers and corporate partners to make their stay as comfortable as possible.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I would like to give credit to the success of my career to my family, my staff and the Board of Directors. My family has always supported my career 100% of their time and they know how passionate I am. They took care of my daughters while I was in meetings, dinners or events.
My current team and co-workers are exceptional and are part of the success of the organization. I am just the captain that sails the boat and works with its crew to reach its goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rmhcsouthflorida.org/
- Instagram: @sorayamoya
- Twitter: @sorayarmoya
Image Credits
Photo credits: Silvio Lima Photography
