Jumpline magazine OCT 2022-pages - Flipbook - Page 26
26
Members Giving Back: Maria Ortiz
“I always had it in my heart to give to others,” Maria says. “But
my real motivation began in 2007. I was devastated by the out of
the blue loss of my mother. I felt my world ended. My pets were
slaughtered by a stray animal. I lost my side business, and I went
through a divorce. As it seemed I was about to have a nervous
breakdown, I felt love and a hug from Jesus. It was powerful. It
changed me. It helped me redirect. From that day I said to myself
that since God gave me my life back, I am going to show my
gratitude by living a life of serving”.
The ProJecto Por Amor a Jesus charity was born. Maria’s
mission became helping firefighters and children, primarily in the
Dominican Republic, (where she was born), and Haiti. Although
they also provide extensive help elsewhere and have assisted
in over 12 countries, “Our organization is inspired by the love of
Jesus Christ for the world,” she says.
Locally, Maria acts as the liaison for other countries that request
turnout gear. She says “when you see the look on the faces of
firefighters that get second hand MDFR gear, it’s inspiring.” She
remembers one place, Boca Chica, DR, where the smiles lit up a
room. … add pic here. That feeling is why she coordinates with
Miami-Dade’s GSA, Local 1403, MDFR and the Board of County
Commissioners. She lives for the happiness she helps create. “It
is a rush being there when they are issued a full set of gear and
are beaming!” Maria says.
Sometimes Maria personally goes on the delivery and training
trips. Her organization has also branched out, giving to Haitian
bateys in DR, bringing supplies and shipping goods. “We also
have built 3 churches over there so far, and counting!”
She adds, “I am grateful for the support from MDFR, my giving
coworkers and local 1403. I couldn’t do what I do without the
support. You are all in my prayers.”
If you’d like help ProJecto por Amor a Jesus, she asks that
you reach out. Contact Maria by cell or e-mail below. Your time,
supplies, and even donations will be greatly appreciated.
www.ppaaj.com • ppaaj@comcast.net
Maria Ortiz Personal cell phone: 786-380-1374
Editor’s note: We’ll have a Members Giving Back article in
each edition about the awesome work our people are doing.
Got an idea for union members giving back? Are you doing
something awesome, that may just compel someone else to
join you? Please send it on over. Help us inspire the troops
and remind everyone of the great work you are doing! We
need to see it! We’d love to see it! jumpline@local1403.org
October 2022 | JUMPLINE Magazine
Jack Swerdloff, Ret.
Jumpline Editor
