Migdalia Rivera Taratunio, with her husband Jim, co-founded AYUDA for the Arts in April of 2001. Migdalia spent most of her life in the not-for-profit world, working for the Puerto Rican Family Institute, where she held a number of positions, most currently, Director of Development. At that position, she ran numerous successful fundraising events including large galas at The Plaza Hotel, The Boathouse in Central Park, Pierre Hotel and Chelsea Piers. The fundraising activities she organized included Golf Tournaments in both New York and Puerto Rico. Working with NBC, she was able to partner with them for a Christmas Toy Program where, over the years, amassed thousands of toys worth millions of dollars for the community. In 2005, she started a Summer Horse Camp Program in Maine in conjunction with Ballard Farms that sent hundreds of city children for a week in the country over the 13 years she ran the program. She was honored by El Diario la Prensa as one of their “50 Outstanding Latinas”. Migdalia retired from PRFI in 2017.  

As many of you know, Migdalia was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. Since then, the condition has progressed significantly. Migdalia is now receiving round-the-clock care from her husband and professional home care aides, seven days a week. Due to the advanced stage of her dementia, she is unfortunately no longer able to actively participate in day-to-day duties.

Despite these challenges, Migdalia remains a cherished emeritus member of the AYUDA board. As a co-founder of our organization, her contributions and vision are deeply valued, and we are committed to honoring her legacy.