THE PROMISE OF YOUTH

"Many people my age lack knowledge about philanthropy
and think that you have to be a millionaire to leave a legacy,
and that's just not true." - Alejandro Rivera, 30

Alejandro "Alex" Rivera was only six years old when he and his family came to Miami from Cuba. As a young adult, he began to see the poor financial choices many of his peers made and the resulting consequences. Conversely, he learned that the right financial decisions could change lives and entire communities, and he wanted to make a difference.

So Alex decided to take a different path.

Now 30, Alex is a successful financial planner for MassMutual, and an important up-and-coming young professional in Miami who is already leaving his mark on the future of his community.

Two years ago, Alex purchased a life insurance policy and designated United Way of Miami-Dade as the beneficiary. When it comes to term, the organization and the community it serves will benefit by over $100,000.

"Many people my age lack knowledge about philanthropy and think that you have to be a millionaire to leave a legacy, and that's just not true".

Introduced to the work of United Way of Miami-Dade only a few years ago by his mentor, Alex has already become extremely active in the community. He volunteers and attends many Young Leadership events and just this past year served as the Acting Chair of the Financial Stability Impact Council. Alex says a long-term goal of his is to one day serve on United Way of Miami-Dade's Board of Directors.

Alex's extraordinary commitment and dedication to Miami-Dade through United Way serves as an example to all professionals his age. He hopes that many others will follow in his footsteps in order to help build a stronger community ... for us all.