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Things to do
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MATT WITTMEYER staff photographer
Debra L. Ortiz-Pardi
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Debra L. Ortiz-Pardi of Parma is a community educator with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and says her work keeps her connected to the community.
Personal: 35, of Parma. Married with two children.
Occupation: Community Educator with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, NY Regional Office.
Community activities: The nature of my work keeps me connected to the community. I am constantly visiting area schools and organizations to provide prevention education programs. I also coordinate with schools who will participate in the Ride for Missing Children, a NCMEC/NY community event. Outside of work, I’m a volunteer Girl Scout Troop Leader and a member of Elmgrove United Methodist Church.
My favorite thing to do in Rochester: Zumba! This is a dance aerobics class that infuses Latin rhythms and other world music. It’s a lot of fun and a great workout.
Biggest challenge I’ve overcome and how I did it: The balance of work life and family is a constant juggling act that, surely, all working parents can relate to. You just have to keep your priorities straight and always remember that family comes first.
One thing I’ve always wanted to do but never have: Visit Puerto Rico and hear the Coquí (little frogs) first hand.
If I could change one thing about myself it would be: Worry less.
The talent I would most like to have: It would be really cool to be able to figure skate.
The one thing I can’t live without: Of course my family. Otherwise, the day is not complete without a Dunkin Donuts vanilla chai!
My favorite movie: It may sound cheesy, but I love the movie Ever After. There’s nothing like a good fairy tale to whisk you away.
One of my favorite sayings is: I’m told I say “We’re good to go!” quite a bit.
A person who has inspired me (and why): My neighbor, a 5-year-old boy with neuroblastoma. I’m in the process of publishing a children’s book that will benefit childhood cancer research. It was inspired by this boy, his plight, and his friendship with my daughter.
