We asked some of the most inspiring folks in the community to tell us where they want to be professionally by the end of their careers.

Joe Ortiz | Ringleader of Clockpole

When it come to creating art or music, there is no end goal. The work itself is what matters. Make it, admire or detest it, then move on and make the next one. I don’t know if I’ll die today or when I’m 100, so I get busy now and create. The closest thing to a goal is the constant feeling that I must get whatever is in me out or it will never exist. You can’t get back a wasted minute. Enjoy life and the creative process now. I make no money on my art, in fact I lose money and I don’t care. I will likely always have a real job and die unable to retire. I don’t make art for a career. If someone else enjoys my work, that’s fine with me. If no one enjoys my work, that’s fine with me. I do this for me. Read more>>

Maria Baños Jordan | Community Advocate and Founder of the Texas Familias Council

A career in community advocacy doesn’t have an ending. It is one of the most challenging parts of this work, because the rewards are often not seen, and generations will always need to learn more about community. As the years have gone by through many professional roles, I learned that applying my skills and creativity in serving others brings joy. I hope that I’ll continue to find creative ways to share the value of our diverse communities in building a stronger society. Read more>>

Don Jante | Bus Boy Wizard

Hopefully there is no end to our goal. At the end of my career, I hope that Flip ‘n Patties is continuing to add value to the people inside and outside this organization. Read more>>