AURORA, Illinois (April 8, 2008) Prepare for an evening of Latin culture and inspiration as author Robert Renteria couples with Aurora’s Hesed House to launch his book and raise funds for the homeless at the April 25 gala at North Island Sound.
“From the Barrio to the Boardroom” is Renteria’s true account of his ascent from growing up in the slums of East L.A., watching his father perish on Skid Row and dropping out of school to join a gang.

A plea from his grandfather and enrolling in the Army transformed his life. Today, he owns a successful coin-laundry consulting business, WashPro. A few years ago, he started mulling over the idea of writing his life story, hoping to inspire other teens to rise above their circumstances.

Rey Cruz, the former president of the Aurora Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Illinois, met Renteria less than a year ago but says the impact of their relationship—and Robert’s story—is lasting.

“I had the opportunity to meet, talk, and become friends with Robert Renteria before I read his book. You would never know unless you read the book, of the many challenges Robert has overcome to become the success he is. He is unbelievably kind, generous, enthusiastic, and mild mannered. Things you would not expect from someone who has walked in his shoes.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to be inspired. It can motivate anyone of any age, ethnicity, color or gender, to go earn what you want in life. I hope that Robert's next book gives us the steps to achieve some of his success.”

The $30 tickets include a copy of Renteria’s book, a souvenir program, hors d’ouvres and a gift bag. A cash bar is also available. Mariachis and Latin dancers will perform while artists capturing the evening’s festivities on canvas will auction off their work later in the evening. All proceeds will go to Hesed House.

ABOUT THE AACVB:

The Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau serves as the tourism marketing and management organization for Aurora, Batavia, Hinckley, North Aurora, Montgomery, Plano, Sugar Grove and Yorkville. This not-for-profit organization provides numerous travel resources to visitors via the Web site at www.enjoyaurora.com and a toll-free number 1-800-477-4369