Robert Rivera

It has been over 30 years that I have known Gary. I first met Gary in Fifth Ward as he was doing Habitat for Humanity housing. My first impression was "wow this guy is a go getter!' Just the audaciousness of putting yourself on the limb and saying you are building 100 new homes. I found out later that he did not have the money in place until after the project had started. What a tremendous faith this man has, I thought to myself. And more impressively, he built the homes. What an accomplishment!

Over the last ten years, Gary and I have gotten much closer. We rekindled our acquittances when I discovered his work at Sherman Elementary. He so selflessly gave his all to help the students and families at Sherman Elementary. I must admit that Sherman Elementary is dear to my heart since I went to school there as a young boy.

Over time Gary and I have grown in our friendship. We have collaborated in so many projects that I cannot even remember them all. But one universal truth emerged in our friendship and that is Gary's unyielding desire to serve others. Gary's mantra to me was “tell me how we can do it and not that it can not be done.” Honestly, at times I had to tell Gary, we can not do everything. Then he would smile at me and tell me we have a good partnership.

Gary has been an inspiration to me. I marvel at his energy and his political insights. I will always cherish his wisdom and his unflinching faith in people. I am a better person because Gary has been my friend and fellow troublemaker. Thank you for all you have given to me and the greater Houston community.

With deep admiration Robert Rivera