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As a native of the Dominican Republic, Hispanic Heritage Month holds deep significance for me. It is a time to honor and celebrate the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Hispanic community. This month is one of reflection, pride, and recognition of the resilience and vibrancy that define our heritage. From the rich flavors of our foods to the vibrant sounds of our music, Hispanic culture is a beautiful mosaic that continues to influence, inspire, and shape our society in meaningful ways. A fun fact about the Hispanic community is its incredible diversity—Hispanics come from more than 20 different countries, each with its own distinct culture, traditions, and dialects. This diversity enriches the cultural landscape of the United States, making Hispanic Heritage Month a celebration of many varied traditions that contribute to the Hispanic identity.

Hispanic Heritage Month is also an opportunity to discuss and highlight the challenges faced by  the Hispanic community, particularly in healthcare, and to reaffirm my commitment to addressing these issues through my role at Fidelis Care. Social determinants such as income, education, housing, and access to nutritious food play a significant role in our health and well-being. These factors often lead to delays in seeking care, lower rates of insurance coverage, and increased risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and hypertension.

As a Hispanic leader at Fidelis Care, I am committed to addressing these health challenges and improving the well-being of the Hispanic community. My role allows me to advocate for and implement community engagement initiatives that increase access to healthcare services by providing information in Spanish, offering support to navigate the healthcare system, and ensuring that Hispanic communities receive the care they need when they need it. I am also committed to partnering with local organizations that understand the unique needs of Hispanic communities, working together to close the gap in health disparities.

Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder of the work that still needs to be done, but it is also a celebration of the progress we have made. I am proud to be Hispanic and to be part of an organization committed to making a difference in the lives of the Hispanic community. The achievements of my fellow Hispanics at Fidelis Care, from those in leadership to those on the front lines educating and impacting lives, inspire me to push forward, knowing that our collective efforts are making a real difference.

Virgilio Abel Castillo joined Fidelis Care in 2008 and currently holds the role of Sales and Marketing Manager for Rockland and Westchester Counties. In this role, he supports Fidelis Care's mission to provide quality healthcare to the community. Castillo is an active member of The Fellows Experience of Greater St. Louis and of the Fidelis Care Maternal Health Committee.