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The UPS Store Hometown Heroes is a platform that highlights fellow Austinites for their work in making Austin a better place to live, work, learn, and play. Throughout the 2024 Season, Austin FC will celebrate heroes from our ATX community!

2024 The UPS Hometown Hero Winners

September 28 - Tony Laudadio

Tony is a brain and kidney cancer survivor who has navigated immense adversity and personal growth. He continues to support the Austin community through his nonprofit, The Tony Foundation, which provides financial assistance to families facing the challenges of cancer. You can read more about Tony's story here.

Tony Laudadio
Honoree Michelle Barrientos

July 13 - Michelle Barrientos

Michelle is a Kindergarten teacher at Baranoff Elementary, who has dedicated her career (and life!) to caring for the education, well-being, and safety of children. She is a mother and wife extraordinaire, as well as a die-hard Austin FC supporter.

October 19 - Karl Ortiz

Karl Ortiz is a sixteen year veteran of the Cedar Park Fire Department, where he currently serves as Captain of Station 2. He serves as a volunteer for his local firefighter organization and raises money for community members who have fallen on difficult times.

Karl Ortiz

Previous Winners