Empowering community growth through recognition and giving
(ORLANDO, FL) APRIL 4, 2025 – For the 16th consecutive year, Bank of America donates $5,000 to a non-profit organization chosen by the Don Quijote Excellence Award winner. The 2024 recipient of the award, Maritza Guerrero, Vice President of External Affairs and Philanthropy at Orlando Magic, chose 8 Cents in a Jar Inc. and Valencia College Foundation to receive this special contribution. The check presentation took place on March 28 at Kia Center.
The Don Quijote Awards, presented by Prospera and the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando (The Hispanic Chamber), is Central Florida’s premier Hispanic gala recognizing outstanding Hispanic entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders who have made a significant impact on the growth and development of the community.
In attendance
Representatives present at the check presentation included the Hispanic Chamber President and CEO Pedro Turushina; the Hispanic Chamber Board Chair, Oscar Cristancho; Katia Media, Prospera Regional Vice President; Prospera Central & Northeast Board Chair, Quibulah Graham; Maritza Guerrero, Vice President of External Affairs and Philanthropy at Orlando Magic; Naveed Shujaat, President of Bank of America Central Florida; and Jodie Hardman, Senior Vice President and Marketing Manager at Bank of America, among other distinguished guests.
“We are honored to receive this generous gift from Bank of America and Maritza Martinez-Guerrero, winner of the Don Quijote Excellence Award,” said Carlee Thomas, chief philanthropy officer and executive director of Valencia College Foundation. “Maritza, a Valencia College alumna, received the award for her exemplary leadership in the community, including as the board director for Valencia College Foundation. With this gift, she is helping the college create a brighter tomorrow for our students and the Central Florida region.”
About the nonprofit beneficiaries
Valencia College Foundation advances and serves the Valencia College community through partnerships and philanthropy.
8 Cents in a Jar Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 2016 with a bold vision: transforming the financial futures of under-resourced youth in Central Florida. Its mission is to enlighten youth from under-resourced to prevent poverty and rise to a higher economic position.
To learn more about 8 Cents in a Jar Inc. and their mission, visit https://www.8cents.org/.
To learn more about Valencia College Foundation and their mission, visit https://valencia.org/.
ABOUT THE HISPANIC CHAMBER OF METRO ORLANDO
The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando is one of the largest business organizations in Central Florida. The Hispanic Chamber has advocated for the Hispanic business community for over three decades. This organization is recognized as one of the main economic development entities in the region, serving as the central point of connection, fostering business success, unifying communities, and empowering Hispanic business owners and professionals to drive exceptional economic growth in the region. As a valued member of the Hispanic Chamber, you will be part of one of the largest, most engaged business networks in Central Florida, with exclusive access to unparalleled benefits, award-winning events, and programs focused on commerce opportunities, coaching, and community-building, making us the top choice for businesses of all industries in our region. For more information, please visit www.hispanicchamber.com.
ABOUT PROSPERA
Prospera is an economic development, nonprofit organization that has specialized since 1991 in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs who want to start, sustain, and grow their business. In the last five years alone, Prospera facilitated nearly $65 million in loans for small business clients, trained more than 17,000 entrepreneurs, and helped consulting clients create or retain more than 18,600 jobs. Prospera currently serves Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. For more information, visit www.prosperausa.org.
