“The beautiful thing about art (and this book is art because it came from the heart) is that even while you sleep, it changes people's lives. Robert has left another mark on the world that no one can take away. Now we just have to reach as many people as possible, so we can let them know that it’s never too late to make a difference in their lives — whether you’re a young Latino, like Robert, or a middle-aged person who just feels like he hasn’t accomplished much. Robert's message is universal, and it will endure.”

—Ken Kamien, Police Officer, City of Chicago Police Department

We're rolling out the Red Carpet next week. BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
The official launch of From the Barrio to the Board Room is about a week away and the energy is enough to power up the entire city of Aurora! Tickets are selling quickly and the media is taking notice. Between interviews with reporters and talking with people in the community, Robert is cranking on all cylinders to prepare for the event. If the buzz has somehow missed you, the Barrio Book Launch will take place at Long Island Sound in Aurora, IL, Robert’s community, beginning at 7 p.m. So much more than a book signing, this night will present a festival of Latino culture — mariachis, Latin dancers, and music. In addition, half a dozen artists will be creating imagery from the evening on canvasses. The paintings will be sold in a Silent Auction that evening, with all proceeds to benefit Hesed House, a non-profit organization striving to end homelessness in the area. Come for the fun and join Mayor Tom Weisner, Aurora aldermen, school administrators, business owners and many others in supporting a worthy cause! Click here for details and to purchase your tickets (which each include a complimentary copy of Robert’s book). For Sponsorship Opportunities, contact us directly at sue@writersoftheroundtable.com or Robert@washprousa.com.

Robert gives kids the VIP treatment.
Children are an important audience for Robert’s message of hope. So he’s hosting more than 40 Aurora area youngsters from the East and West Aurora School District who will take a walk down the Red Carpet at the Barrio Book Launch as his guest. Accompanied by parents and teachers, these kids will receive VIP seating so that Robert can reach out to them directly and empower them to follow a path in life that can lead to fulfillment and joy.

Help us help Hesed House.
Homelessness has become a horrible epidemic in today’s difficult economy. Luckily, Hesed House in Aurora is working to provide help for the homeless people in Fox Valley. Every year, this group of dedicated workers finds the means to provide meals, health care, job training, and even jobs for people who have lost their way in this world. Help us give them a hand by coming to the Barrio Book Launch and bringing items for the Food Drive (non-perishables and gift cards) plus bidding on great items in the Silent Auction. All proceeds from these two activities will go directly to Hesed House! We have already received donations from as far as New York, Florida and Hawaii, and three schools in the Aurora East School District are hosting their own food drives for the benefit! For more information, contact Robert Renteria or call (630) 248-1646.

Community is supporting Book Launch’s homeless benefit.
It’s been said that it takes a village to raise a child. The same holds true for spreading an important message. Robert is getting calls from community leaders and business people who want to step up and sponsor the Barrio Book Launch so that Robert’s inspiring message can reach out to as many people as possible. There’s still time to join this group of sponsors. Contact Sue Publicover at (207) 752-4802 or sue@writersoftheroundtable.com.

Evening With the Author planned for April and May.
If you haven’t already met Robert and heard him talk about his struggle to rise above the challenges of growing up in the barrio, Aurora School Districts 129 and 131 are giving you another chance. Robert has been invited to speak to students, parents, and teachers in April and May so that he can share his message of hope with them. Stay tuned for details or call (630) 248-1646. With only ONE week left before the event, make sure you buy your tickets TODAY, as this event WILL sell out!