Note: Let me preface that what we need to do the most, is spread the word with this one… simply liking this wherever you see it will not create impact.
Share, donate and reach out with any resources directly to Dean…
Who is Dean Huertas?
Dean Huertas is a Puerto Rican storyteller, cultural activist, and author who has spent years giving his people something that was too often left out of the classroom: their own history. Known to many for his series "Puerto Rico Pal Mundo," Dean built his following by traveling the island, uncovering the stories of his heritage, and sharing them with pride and purpose. What began as one person healing the kid who was never taught his own history grew into something much bigger.
Through his Bridge the Gap Tour, Dean has brought Puerto Ricans from the island and across the diaspora into the same room, from Philadelphia to Holyoke to St. Croix, creating events that double as fundraisers for local community organizations. He recently authored his first book, "Island of Impact," a reclaiming of Puerto Rico's place in world history. His message has stayed consistent through all of it: pride on its own is not enough. What matters is what we do with it, and how we use it to lift one another up.
For years, Dean has shown up for his community. He has used his voice, his camera, and his own time to make people feel seen. Now, after a difficult stretch, he is the one who needs his community to show up for him.
Watch the video to hear it in his own words…
What happened
Over the past several weeks, Dean has experienced multiple criminal acts that have resulted in significant personal and financial loss. His vehicle was vandalized. Someone drilled holes into his gas tank and stole his fuel, and the damage is not covered by his insurance, leaving him responsible for the repairs.
On top of that, his apartment was destroyed by a fire that he believes was intentionally set. As a result, he lost most of his personal belongings, including clothing and the majority of his professional recording equipment: microphones, lighting, and the other tools he depends on for his work. He is also currently without stable housing as he works to rebuild.
How your support helps
I am calling on the Cultivator Community to help one of our own.
This fundraiser was created to help Dean cover the immediate expenses of repairing his vehicle and securing a safe place to live. Any additional funds will go toward replacing the essential equipment lost in the fire, so he can continue the work of telling our stories and regain his stability.
Transparency matters to Dean. He has committed that if this campaign raises more than what is needed for his recovery, the remaining funds will be donated to nonprofit organizations providing humanitarian relief to the people of Venezuela.
Thank you for taking the time to read Dean's story, and for any support you are able to offer, whether through a donation, by sharing this fundraiser, or by keeping him in your thoughts.
MIL GRACIAS!
🌱 George Torres
Founder, Siembra Connect
@SiembraConnect
PS… The strongest communities are not found, they are cultivated. Subscribe to Siembra Connect and help us build one worth belonging to.