Eva Longoria Parker grew up the youngest of four sisters on a ranch in Corpus Christi Texas. From a very young age, her family’s strong work ethic instilled in her the notion “if you want something, you must work for it.” The Longoria motto has driven Eva not only to professional heights of her own, Golden Globe nominee, Screen Actors Guild Award winner, People’s Choice Award winner, Bambi Award winner, and ALMA Award winner, but it has been the spark that has encouraged her to enrich the lives of others. Eva stars as “Gabrielle Solis” on the ABC megahit “Desperate Housewives,” but the actress’ most important role is the one she plays off screen, in the Latino community, her charitable organizations and the green movement.

Longoria Parker’s charities and organizations are very close to her heart. She is the National Spokesperson for PADRES Contra El Cáncer (Parents Against Cancer). Eva also works with the Special Olympics and gives generously of her time and efforts to numerous other groups and founded the non-profit organization “Eva’s Heroes.” Longoria Parker currently works closely with The United Farm Workers (UFW), The Mexican American Legal Defense Educational Fund (MALDEF), the Dolores Huerta Foundation and The National Council of La Raza (NCLR).

Eva has decided to channel some of her boundless energy into fighting for the preservation of our world for future generations. She campaigned with President Bill Clinton and Al Gore on Prop 87 in California to establish a $4 billion Clean Alternative Energy Program. She also received the Hope of Los Angeles Award from Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, an award given to her for achieving international recognition in her profession and honoring her positive efforts that have impacted the lives of others in a most positive way. As a long time advocate for the environment, Longoria Parker has found a wonderful vehicle in The GreenVille Project where she can put her assets and talent to work. As a savvy and respected business woman, she recognizes that not only is this good for the planet, it is just good business.

Whether she is spearheading the green-retail movement, volunteering during presidential campaigns, playing an active role in her home state of Texas, or working with her nonprofit, Eva Longoria Parker proves that ambition and a big heart go a long way.