October 15, 2025
Each year, from September 15 to October 15, the nation observes Hispanic Heritage Month, a time set aside to recognize the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The dates themselves carry meaning: they coincide with the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18.
In Montgomery County—where more than one in five residents identifies as Hispanic or Latino—this commemoration is woven into the fabric of the community. It is both a celebration of heritage and an acknowledgment of the leaders and entrepreneurs whose work shapes the county’s civic and economic life.
This year, WorkSource Montgomery is highlighting three figures whose leadership has helped their neighbors build stronger businesses, find opportunity, and strengthen the ties that hold communities together.
Sandra Pacheco — Executive Director and Founder, HDS Biz Solutions
When Sandra Pacheco first arrived in the United States, she had little more than determination and a vision for something better. With $300 and an idea, she launched HDS Biz Solutions, a firm that helps small contractors formalize their businesses, secure licenses, and meet compliance requirements.
“My mission goes beyond paperwork — it’s about opening doors, creating opportunities, and showing Hispanic entrepreneurs they don’t have to walk this journey alone.”
Over nine years, HDS Biz Solutions has worked with more than 4,700 contractors, enabling them to hire workers, grow their businesses, and reach personal milestones such as buying homes and sending children to college.
Pacheco credits her approach to leadership to her Latina roots: resilience, resourcefulness, and a commitment to community.
“When one of us rises, we all rise.”
For her, Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder to honor immigrant stories and to tell the next generation that they are not only part of the American dream but also helping to build it.
Her advice to aspiring leaders:
“Leadership is a lifelong classroom. Courage is moving forward even when your knees are shaking. Take the step, even with fear.”
Contact HDS Biz Solutions:
hds-biz.com/en/
Email: info@hdsbizsolutions.com
Cristine Camacho — Founder, CIS Group
Raised by an Ecuadorian immigrant mother, Cristine Camacho understands the hurdles families face in creating a stable life in a new country. That experience guided her to establish CIS Group, a firm that helps families and small businesses navigate the often-complex world of insurance.
“I wanted to create a space where people feel comfortable, understood, and supported.”
Camacho chose to grow her business in Montgomery County, drawn by its diversity and entrepreneurial spirit. Her leadership is grounded in values of resilience, hard work, family, and trust.
Active well beyond her business, Camacho is Vice President and Events Committee Chair of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Montgomery County, serves on the Board of Directors of Interfaith Works, and conducts workshops for Project Opportunity to help entrepreneurs protect and strengthen their businesses.
Her counsel for those starting out:
“Believe in yourself and embrace your story — your culture and your family’s sacrifices are your strengths. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Contact CIS Group:
11820 Parklawn Drive, Suite 380, Rockville, MD 20852
Phone: 240-752-6111
Email: info@cisgroupus.com
LinkedIn: CIS Group
Diego Uriburu — Co-Founder and Executive Director, Identity
For more than two decades, Diego Uriburu has worked to expand opportunity for Latino youth and families in Montgomery County. In 1998, he co-founded Identity, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting immigrant families as they navigate education, work, and civic life.
“I wanted to fulfill the potential of this community and contribute to the county I’ve called home for most of my adult life.”
Uriburu says the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month is reflected every day in Identity’s culture:
“We are a family — past and current clients, employees, donors, and allies. We work hard, respect others, and persevere even in the toughest circumstances.”
Identity celebrates heritage not with a single event but through its daily work, bringing passion, human connection, and love to the community it serves.
“With a little support, these families thrive and make society stronger and better.”
His message to those seeking to partner with or support Hispanic-led businesses:
“This is a business community that is trustworthy and talented. If you treat them with respect and kindness, you will reap great benefits.”
Contact Identity:
identity-youth.org
Phone: 301-770-6000
Email: info@identity-youth.org
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
The stories of Pacheco, Camacho, and Uriburu show what perseverance, vision, and community-minded leadership can achieve. They also remind us that heritage is not only something to be remembered but also something to be lived — in the businesses that open doors, the programs that guide young people, and the leaders who shape a more inclusive future.
As we mark Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor not just history but the ongoing contributions that continue to enrich Montgomery County.
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