Hispanic Heritage Month: JoJo Taveras
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, providing an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. At the Merrimack Valley YMCA, we are proud to have such a diverse group of staff, members and volunteers who make our Y such a wonderful and welcoming place to be.
Stay tuned throughout this month as we recognize a few of those individuals and share a little bit about their story.
Elias ‘JoJo’ Taveras
Tell us a little about yourself and your connection to the Merrimack Valley YMCA?
I’ve been a member at the Lawrence Y for 40 years and I’ve learned a lot and they treat me really well. The reason why I chose to work here is because the Y gave me a space to do what I love and help others with their fitness goals. I’ve noticed in my life that being healthy is the best thing that you can do for yourself. I’ve learned all my fitness goals and achievements on my own, not from tv or magazines.
What brought you to the Y in the first place?
Basketball is what brought me to the Y in the first place. I used to play basketball here at the Y. The reason why I got my name ‘JoJo’ is because the during that time I was playing basketball here at the Lawrence Y, I looked like the Celtics player JoJo White.
What does your Hispanic/Latino heritage mean to you?
Moving to the this country gave me a lot of opportunities; I was able to bring together my American culture and my Hispanic culture. I see myself a lot in this country and I love the opportunities it has given me and my family. I’m happy I have been given a place where I can be myself while embracing the American culture and my Dominican background.
Is there a tradition, value, or lesson from your family or culture that has stayed with you?
We all get together as a family for the 4th of July.
Who has had the biggest influence on the person you are today?
My biggest influences have been my mother and father. We are a family of 11 that immigrated here from the Dominican Republic.
What is something you’re proud of — either personaly, professionally or within your community?
My greatest achievement is being able to reach the American Dream and my parents choosing to immigrate here when I as 20 years old with all my siblings.
What is one thing you hope to pass on to the next generation?
I would like to pass down to the next generation the importance of physical fitness and sports. To gain knowledge of understanding business and above all keep your health. Without your health you can’t achieve all these things.
