Criseida Ortiz is a resilient, compassionate, and driven woman whose life journey reflects perseverance, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to helping others. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the Bronx, New York, her early years were shaped by constant movement, having also lived in Salem, Massachusetts, and Paterson, New Jersey. These experiences gave her a broad perspective on life and a strong sense of adaptability from a young age.
At just 17 years old, Criseida married and relocated to Baní in the Dominican Republic, where she spent 14 years building a family and raising three children. After her divorce at the age of 31, she faced one of the most challenging periods of her life—returning to the United States as a single mother determined to provide stability and opportunity for her children.
She settled in Teaneck, New Jersey, where her determination truly came to life. For three years, she worked tirelessly—holding two jobs while attending college at night. During the weekdays, she worked as a saleswoman in a car dealership, and on weekends, she cared for patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia in an assisted living facility. Despite the demands, she pursued her education and earned an Associate Degree in International Business, even while her dream of becoming an interior designer remained close to her heart.
Following the events of the September 11 attacks she worked with the UNITED WAY in New Jersey providing support thru donations made by the community to the company. After Criseida made the decision to relocate to Tampa, Florida, seeking a fresh start. There, she began a meaningful career with Citibank, where she discovered a passion for professional growth and customer service. Despite periods of layoffs, she remained resilient, later working with SunTrust during its merger with BB&T, continuing to build her career with dedication.
Beyond her professional life, Criseida has always been entrepreneurial and creative. To support her family, she took on various side ventures including catering, personal cooking, upholstery of antique furniture, sewing custom curtains, and interior decorating—often sourcing and selling items directly to clients. Her creativity and work ethic became essential tools in providing for her children.
However, her greatest passion has always been giving back—especially to children in need. Throughout her life, both in the United States and during her years in the Dominican Republic, she has dedicated herself to helping underserved communities. She has organized efforts to collect clothing, toys, and food, often funding these initiatives herself and with the support of family and friends. She frequently traveled to rural and underserved areas, bringing joy and basic necessities to children—especially during the Christmas season.
Witnessing children without food, shoes, or basic necessities deeply impacted her and became the driving force behind her life’s mission. Despite all challenges, she considers her greatest achievement to be raising her three children, who today are successful professionals with families of their own—and her strongest supporters.
Today, Criseida Ortiz is turning her lifelong passion into purpose by creating a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children in need around the world. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure that no child goes without the basic necessities of life, and to continue spreading hope, love, and opportunity wherever it is needed most.