In conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month 2021, which occurs each year from September 15 through October 15, Comcast is honoring 8 Hispanic community volunteers who have demonstrated their commitment to Houston, its community organizations, and more. We’ve partnered with Comcast to highlight all 8 honorees and share a little bit about them, living in Houston, and giving back, all in their own words.
Now in its sixth year, Comcast’s Hispanic Hero Awards recognizes individuals who have served as forces for change in the community and also helps to celebrate Houston’s renowned diversity.
“We are inspired by the accomplishments and passion of each of these honorees and honored to be able to shine a light on all they do to make a difference to so many,” said Ralph Martinez, senior vice president for Comcast’s Houston region.
Today, we’re pleased to partner with Comcast to spotlight Ricardo Nazario.
Nominated by Crime Stoppers of Houston, Ricardo Nazario is a financial advisor and founding partner of T.O.S. Advisors. Born in Puerto Rico, he graduated from Houston Baptist University with a Bachelors degree with a double major in Finance and Spanish in 1988. He and his wife Joan have 3 adult children and 2 granddaughters.
In addition to serving on the executive board of Crime Stoppers of Houston, has worked directly with the Safe Schools Program and personally visited area schools to educate children on understanding what crime is, the importance of reporting a crime and rewards for doing so.
After serving Isaacs Elementary in Fifth Ward as “principal for a day”, he’s continued to visit the school, mentor students there, and help advocate for and reward academic success.
Learn more about Nazario’s career, community engagement, and commitment to Houston’s youth on Comcast’s local Houston website and in the video below.
In His Own Words: Ricardo Nazario
We also asked Nazario to share some additional thoughts on his community involvement and life in Houston.
On his favorite way to give back in Houston…
“I like to spend time at local schools sharing stories with the students to inspire them to dream big and achieve their goals. I use the Rubik’s Cube as a metaphor for life…we all know what we want to achieve but need to study how to solve it, learn from the ones that can complete the cube, and practice, practice, practice…”
On the habit that has contributed most to his success…
“Perseverance and hard work. I had my first job delivering newspapers at the age of nine. During that time, I had to get up early every day and spend time at night collecting payment for the newspapers I sold. Playing sports kept me out of trouble and helped me stay in shape, which to this day, has helped me stay healthy and competitive.”
On his personal inspiration…
“My dad [is my biggest inspiration]. He was a dreamer and a visionary. He was an inspiring man who never forgot the many people that helped him—and our family—when he was diagnosed with colon cancer at the tender age of 37. Life became very difficult for him and my mother, who had 5 young children between 3 and 11. However, my dad’s wisdom, my mom;’s determination, their love of life, and sense of humor got us through the difficult times.”
Advice to young and young-at-heart Houstonians who want to get involved in their communities…
“You do not have to go very far to find someone in need of support. It could be something as simple as a kind word, a smile, or a hug. Start small and get ready to make a difference in someone’s life. It is addictive.”
Finally, on his favorite Houston restaurant…
“Tex Chick, a local Puertorrican Restaurant near Montrose Boulevard. I’ve been going there for over 30 years.”
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