A Family-Focused Conversation with Commissioner Manolo Reyes

With the holiday season fast approaching and families looking forward to spending time together, it’s a great moment to reflect on how our community is growing and thriving. Miami Kids Magazine had the opportunity to talk with Commissioner Manolo Reyes, a dedicated leader with deep roots in District 4, who has been instrumental in shaping a family-friendly Miami. As Christmas nears, we asked Commissioner Reyes how his work benefits local families and what we can expect for the future of our community.

1-You’ve lived in District 4 with your family for many years. How has your experience as a father and grandfather shaped your vision for creating a family-friendly environment in Miami?

 Miami has been my home for over 6 decades.  I’ve seen it as a father and as a grandfather. I considerate it my duty to work hard and improve the quality of life for future generations.

2-You’ve worked with non-profits to support over 2,000 families through food distribution and senior assistance programs. What motivates you to continue these efforts, and how can families benefit from these programs?

 Many people think that Miami is the big buildings in the Downtown and Brickell area, but the reality is that the City of Miami has a large population that needs our assistance every day. That reality is what motivates me to continue the work I’m doing to assist seniors and families in need. I have people in my office assigned to work with these cases specifically to connect them with programs and organizations to find the assistance that they need.

 3-As a former teacher and advocate for education, you’ve helped lead programs like FIU’s dual enrollment. What are your plans to continue supporting local schools and ensuring that children in District 4 have access to quality education?

 Since being elected commissioner, I have been working closely with all the schools in my district to guarantee that every child has the school supplies they need to start the school each year and during the school year I maintain a close relationship with school authorities to provide support to families if they need it.

 4-You’ve invested over $11 million in parks and recreational spaces. How do these projects, like the Shenandoah Pool and Coral Nook Park enhancements, create better places for families to enjoy time together outdoors?

 I grew up in a small town named Las Tunas in Cuba, where some of my best childhood memories are of playing and having fun outdoors. That is why I have taken it upon myself to build and rebuild open spaces where our children and families can participate in healthy activities and create memories being outdoors together.

5- Looking ahead, what are your hopes for future generations in Miami, and how do you plan to make District 4 an even better place for families to live, work, and play?

 My hope is that future generations continue to work for our society, improving the quality of life, and providing opportunities for all.

6- How are you going to celebrate this holiday season with your family and tell us some of your family traditions along with a final message to our readers. 

I will celebrate with my family and friends like I do every year and being a good Cuban I will be continuing with our traditions by roasting a pig for our Christmas Eve dinner.

My final message would be to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, full of health, peace and happiness to all.