What inspires you to make a difference in your community? How can you turn faith into action? In this episode of Withology, host Brian Tierney dives into the remarkable journey of Reverend Luis Cortes, founder of Esperanza, a leading faith-based organization. He built a $111 million dollar organization with 800 employees that helps 35,000 people a year in the Hunting Park neighborhood of Philadelphia, all through his relentless work ethic and mission. From his roots in Spanish Harlem to creating a Latino community powerhouse in Philadelphia, his story of social justice, economic development, and community empowerment through education, affordable housing, and healthcare access will leave you inspired. IN THIS EPISODE: (01:51) - Rev. Cortes shares how growing up in Spanish Harlem shaped his worldview (03:47) - Discussion of work ethic, education, community empowerment, and understanding cultural diversity (09:15) - Moving to Black Harlem, navigating cross-cultural opportunities, cultural clashes and diversity (15:57) - A pivotal decision to enter the ministry, discussions on social justice (26:01) - Moving to Philadelphia to lead a faith-based organization and the role his family played (31:53) - Meeting with presidents, sharing the truth, creating Esperanza and the National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast (38:33) How the Latino influenced the history of America and how to change the culture (47:57) - The importance of Hispanic institutional development, enabling the Latino community to compete with top institutions. BIOGRAPHY: The Reverend Luis Cortés, Jr. is the Founder, President and CEO of Esperanza, the premier Hispanic faith-based Evangelical network in the United States. Driven by the biblical mandate to serve and advocate for "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40), Rev. Cortés founded Esperanza in 1986, with support from the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia. Today, with an extensive national network of Hispanic faith and community-based organizations, Esperanza is one of the leading voices for Latinos in America. Leading what began as a local initiative, with programs targeted to address the unmet needs of Philadelphia's Latino community, Rev. Cortés is now sought by national and international leaders alike on issues of economic and workforce development, housing, immigration, and education. Under his leadership, Esperanza has grown from a small, 20-person operation to more than 800 employees that impact 35,000 people and have a $43 million annual operating budget. RESOURCES: Brian Tierney - LinkedIn Reverend Louis Cortes - LinkedIn Esperanza - Website For 30 years, Esperanza has served the 'least of these' and those who 'just need a break' (Philly Gives-Philadelphia Inquirer)
