2023 Candidate For City Council District 17, New York - Gonzalo Duran

Gonzalo Duran, a candidate vying for the City Council District 17 in New York, hails from the Belmont neighborhood in the Bronx. His upbringing, guided by the strong influence of his single immigrant mother, instilled in him the values of resilience and community spirit. His journey started at DeWitt Clinton High School, where he excelled not only in academics but also in sports, participating in both the wrestling and football teams. Although his initial dream was to become a veterinarian, his life took a dramatic turn when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps during his senior year, marking the beginning of a remarkable transformation.

During his eight-year military service, Gonzalo rose to the rank of Sergeant and embarked on a tour in Iraq. Simultaneously, he embraced the role of a dedicated father, facing the challenges of juggling family and service. After leaving the military, his transition back to civilian life was fraught with difficulties, including a period of homelessness. Nevertheless, Gonzalo's determination and resilience shone through, and he eventually earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Fordham University. His aspiration to become a doctor guided him throughout this phase of his life.

Subsequently, Gonzalo ventured into the public sector, working within the Veterans Affairs and Labor Department. However, the disillusionment he encountered there fueled a change in his life's direction once again. As he observed these institutions, meant to serve the Bronx community, prioritize profit over people, he resolved to become an advocate for positive change.

As a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Gonzalo transitioned from the battlefield to another critical battle, this time on the homefront in the Bronx. His personal struggles and unwavering commitment to fellow veterans led him to create a non-profit organization, Devil Dog USA, Incorporated. Through this initiative, Gonzalo addressed the pressing needs of Bronx veterans and the local community, focusing on housing, employment, and the provision of a warm and welcoming environment. Despite limited resources, Devil Dog USA successfully reached out to thousands of veterans across the nation, championing important causes like mental health awareness, suicide prevention, unemployment, and homelessness. Gonzalo's efforts extended to media commentary, television and radio shows, and various publications.

In the face of economic challenges, affordable housing shortages, low-wage employment, and growing safety concerns within his neighborhood, Gonzalo Duran has decided to run for City Council. He envisions a future where the Bronx remains accessible and affordable for its residents, resisting the encroachment of luxury developments that only cater to a select few. His campaign focuses on three crucial pillars: Youth Programs, Crime & Safety, and Government Transparency. Gonzalo's life is marked by a series of transformative experiences, and he firmly believes that the path to genuine change lies in his candidacy for City Council. His history of service, advocacy for veterans, and dedication to community welfare make him a compelling choice for those seeking a brighter future for the Bronx.

Learn more about his candidacy
Website: https://www.gonzaloduran.nyc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gonzalodurannyc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gonzalodurannyc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gonzalodurannyc/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gonzalodurannyc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzalo-duran-ab07435a/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3it8n6VVGr2weo_gNtT_iA/
Google Plus: https://plus.google.com/u/0/101819736855789096166/
Tumblr: https://gonzoduran.tumblr.com/

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