Florida Volunteer Demonstrates What It Means to Be a Global Citizen

By Jacqueline Rojas

While some families were hosting parties and exchanging gifts this holiday season, one UNICEF USA volunteer and her family worked to provide gifts for the world’s children. From December 26 to December 28, Gabriela Diaz-Barreiro spent several hours each day outside a grocery store in Coral Gables, Florida, telling shoppers about UNICEF and asking them to support the organization’s work to improve the lives of children around the world. Her husband and two-year-old daughter also joined her efforts. 

Gabriela does not let challenges or disappointments diminish her determination to help make the world a better place for children. While Gabriela is most comfortable speaking in Spanish, her primary language, she fearlessly talks with and answers questions from community members whose primary language is English. Though there were days when she did not fundraise as much as she had hoped, she was not discouraged and continued to table with enthusiasm. In total, she and her family collected over $1,000 during the holiday season to support UNICEF’s work. 

Originally from Venezuela, Gabriela has seen first-hand the issues that can negatively affect children’s lives such as insecurity, poverty and a lack of access to basic commodities. Since moving to the United States a few years ago, she has wanted to give back to the global community because of all the blessings she feels she has received throughout her life. Gabriela’s first experience fundraising for UNICEF was in 2013, when was able to raise about $2,000 to support the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan by tabling outside of grocery stores. 

Speaking in Spanish, Gabriela has said, “It is exciting to show people all that they can do with each dollar they donate to UNICEF and that even a little help can change lives.”

Another major factor that motivates her to volunteer for UNICEF USA is being a mother. Her commitment allows her to show her young daughter the importance of giving back, a fundamental value in the family’s household. Gabriela says, “My husband and I want [our daughter] to grow up understanding that we are all equal, but with distinct opportunities, and that fighting for a more equitable world is worth it.”

Gabriela and her husband have also become more engaged with the Congressional Action Team in Miami to support UNICEF USA’s advocacy efforts. Moving forward, they plan to continue seeking out opportunities to help the organization. Gabriela’s passion to take action on behalf of the world’s children and her family’s spirit demonstrate what it means to be global citizens.