Monday, November 11, 2024

10 Things About Gustavo Bidart & Casa Familiar

Share

“God never gives you a dream that matches your budget. He is not checking your bank account; he’s checking your faith.”

The mission of Casa Familiar is to enhance the quality of life for low-income individuals and families through Advocacy, Social Services, Education, Affordable Housing, Arts and Culture, and Community and Economic Development. Thanks to the leadership of Board Chairman, Gustavo Bidart, Casa Familiar, is one of the elite organizations that truly makes an impact on the lives of its residents in San Ysidro and the South Bay.

Gustavo Bidart

#1 I am a longtime resident of Chula Vista – Hilltop Lancer class of ’88!

 

#2 I have grown up playing tennis since I was 11 years old. I would like to attend the four tennis grand slams in one year: Australian, French, Wimbledon and the U.S Open.

 

#3 To celebrate my 21st birthday, I did a solo static line parachute jump from 3,500 feet. It was a fantastic experience pushing my limits, setting aside fear and getting a natural rush.

 

#4 “Lola” my family’s 15-year-old yorkie is always a reminder to all of us at home about unconditional love.

 

#5 I very much enjoy visiting Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula and Cancún, Quintana Roo. The beaches are beautiful and Chichén Itzá never fails.

Gustavo Bidart speech at casa familiar

#6 Advice I would give to my younger self:
1) You are not in competition with anyone, focus on being a better version of yourself than the day before.
2) As early as possible, invest 5-10% of your salary for retirement – maximize your Roth IRA at an early age.

 

#7 My former boss at Citi, Cheryl Evans (RIP) taught me that being a true leader is to be an enabler of one’s team’s success. She always reminded me to prioritize God and family before work. She made me a better manager, a better friend and husband.

 

#8 During my tenure at Home Savings of America Bank, I was referred to Casa Familiar and the CEO, at that time, Andrea Skorepa. I fell in love with the organization and its mission. Casa has always found innovative ways to provide programs and services to the families who need it the most.

 

#9 Like many San Diegans, Roxana, a South Bay resident, was unemployed due to the pandemic. She contacted the Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) at Casa Familiar. Casa’s staff helped her find a job.

 

#10 San Diego is very fortunate to have numerous wonderful nonprofit organizations, and among that list, Casa Familiar is always responsive to the needs of its community and pushes its own limits to find creative solutions to today’s challenging issues. I encourage corporations, foundations, and private philanthropists to visit Casa Familiar and explore how to support such a noble organization.

Casa Familiar activities

www.casafamiliar.org

Lori Walton
Lori Walton
My love and appreciation for nonprofit work began in college when I was selected to represent UCLA’s undergraduate service organization. As a student, I didn’t have a lot of money to donate but I quickly learned that I could make an impact by giving my time. All you have to do to make a difference in someone’s life is care. For the last 30 years, San Diego has been my home. During this time, I have served on over 17 boards and chaired 27 fundraisers. No matter how much work I do with nonprofits, I am always amazed at the number of awesome causes and dedicated supporters out there. San Diego definitely has the best weather in the world but what makes San Diego America’s finest city are the people. I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to live in a city that has so many kind and selfless souls who genuinely care about making our community a better place for everyone. As Giving Back Magazine’s Philanthropy Editor, each week, I feature a hero and the causes that are creating a positive difference in our world. Always remember that philanthropy is about more than giving money, it’s about caring enough to help others who are in pain. So, go out there and make every moment count!

Read more

Latest