Duarte Miguel Camara: This Year’s Humanitarian Award Recipient

We are absolutely delighted to announce Duarte Miguel Camara as this year’s recipient of the Humanitarian Award. His unwavering dedication to serving others and his selfless contributions to the community have truly set him apart as an exceptional individual.

Duarte's journey began on May 30, 1961, in the quaint village of Capelas in Sao Miguel, Azores. Born into a loving family, he quickly learned the value of hard work and compassion from his parents, Maria de Lurdes Cabral Camara and Antonio da Rosa Camara Paiva. Despite facing early challenges, including leaving school to support his ailing parents, Duarte's resilience and determination remained unshaken.

In 1980, Duarte embarked on a new chapter in his life, immigrating to the United States with dreams of a better future. Working tirelessly as a baker and laborer, he epitomized the immigrant spirit, embodying perseverance and grit. Alongside his beloved wife, Venilia de Fatima Barbosa (Camara), Duarte built Acores Bakery from the ground up, transforming it into a cherished community hub over the course of three decades.

However, Duarte's impact extended far beyond the walls of his bakery. His philanthropic endeavors knew no bounds, as he generously donated sweetbreads and heartfelt messages to inmates, supported soup kitchens, and lent his culinary skills to numerous fundraising events. Acores Bakery became synonymous with compassion and goodwill, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who crossed its threshold.

In 2007, Duarte's commitment to service led him to co-found Amigos Unidos, a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding those in need. Through innovative fundraisers and tireless advocacy, Duarte and his team raised significant funds to support individuals facing adversity, providing crucial assistance and essential medical equipment to those in need.

Despite facing adversity, including the devastating loss of Acores Bakery in a tragic fire, Duarte's spirit remained unbroken. He continues to serve his community, baking and cooking for fundraising efforts and embodying the ethos of compassion and selflessness.

Duarte Miguel Camara exemplifies the true essence of humanitarianism, embodying the values of empathy, generosity, and resilience. We are honored to recognize his remarkable contributions and celebrate his legacy of kindness and service. Congratulations, Duarte, on this well-deserved honor. You are an inspiration to us all.