Today we’d like to introduce you to Celia Cortes.
Hi Celia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My story is definitely one of those “If I could do it, so can you” stories. I had to grow up really fast. I was out of the house by the time I was 16. I worked full-time, finished high school, and then enrolled in community college. I got a job that many would consider temporary, and I worked really hard to be good at it. I was dedicated, motivated, and always on time. I worked my way up at my company, not because I had fancy degrees or lots of experience, but because I listened and did what was needed and expected of me every day. That behavior led to my success. And my business success led to my financial success. I made wise investments and grew my portfolio. Out of those successes, I decided that I wanted to give back. I wanted to help communities like the ones in which I grew up. So, I, along with my husband, created our non-profit, Global Action Institute, in 2020. We are a transparent organization that allows our donors to dictate where their donations go. Since 2020, we have helped people in 7 countries on 4 continents and plan to continue helping as many people as possible…
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always bumps in the road. It’s all about how you navigate them. Surround yourself with good people who want to do good in the world, and the road gets smoother. We should always expect there will be administrative struggles and personality conflicts, but we have to put emotion aside and figure out the solution.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Global Action Institute utilizes a network trusted security professionals and humanitarian advocates to do things other organizations can’t or won’t. We travel to war-torn areas to provide aid and supplies; we talk to people that others forget about to ensure they have basic needs; and we address issues head-on. We are different because we listen to our donors and are transparent with them. No one at our organization takes a salary, so we are 100% volunteer-run. One of the programs we are currently most excited about is in Ecuador, where we support women and children who are refugees or survivors of domestic abuse. I’m a bit biased because I adore little ones, and it makes us too happy to be able to help mothers and their children get through difficult times.
What matters most to you? Why?
Honesty, whether that be in my personal life or in business, I believe in being honest, even if someone may not like it.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gaicares.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/globalactioninstitute/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/GlobalActionInstitute
- Youtube: @GlobalActionInstitute
