Eva Longoria has always been a powerhouse in Hollywood, but the driving force behind her passion and compassion is rooted in family. Specifically, her older sister, Liza Longoria, who was born with an intellectual disability, has been a defining influence on her career and life.

From shaping Eva’s moral compass to inspiring her philanthropic work, Liza’s impact is undeniable.

Eva Longoria on Growing Up With Liza: Lessons in Empathy and Selflessness

In interviews, Eva Longoria has shared how her childhood revolved around Liza’s needs. Speaking on the “Making Space with Hoda Kotb” podcast, she reflected, “I don’t really know any other way to be… Everything was, ‘Can Liza go?’” This perspective shaped her empathy, teaching her to consider others first and fostering a deep sense of selflessness.

Eva also revealed how protective she was of her sister. “If you think I’m feisty now, you should have seen 8-year-old Eva,” she said with a laugh, recalling a moment when Liza’s letterman jacket was stolen in high school. Nine-year-old Eva was ready to fight, but Liza’s response stopped her in her tracks: “Somebody who must have been cold,” Liza had said, showing a level of compassion that left a lasting impression on Eva.

“Growing up that way makes you selfless in everything you do,” Eva shared. That compassion has fueled her philanthropic drive and her work in empowering others.

Eva Longoria’s “Hero” and the Birth of Eva’s Heroes

In 2006, Eva Longoria founded Eva’s Heroes, an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual special needs. The San Antonio-based nonprofit provides participants aged 14 and up with social and recreational experiences like drum circles, theater productions, and fashion shows.

“Growing up with you as a sister has taught me so many things,” Eva said in a heartfelt tribute to Liza on the “TODAY with Jenna & Friends” show earlier this year. “The importance of inclusion and advocating for the rights of individuals with intellectual special needs.”

For Eva, the name “Eva’s Heroes” is personal. “I said, ‘Liza’s my hero.’ And I’m sure other people have heroes in their family,” she explained. Liza was the first hero of the organization, and today, the nonprofit serves dozens of participants annually, providing more than 2,300 unique experiences.

“It helps build confidence and independence,” Eva shared. “And Eva’s Heroes is for life.”

A Family Changed by Love and Advocacy

Liza’s influence didn’t stop with Eva. The Longoria family’s dynamic shifted because of her, with Eva’s mother becoming a special education teacher and another sister following the same path. “We owe it all to Liza,” Eva said.

At events and interviews, Eva has often highlighted how Liza’s perspective on life taught her profound lessons. “She doesn’t see the evil in anyone. She just thinks somebody needed it more,” Eva once said, referencing her sister’s unwavering compassion.

That same compassion drives Eva’s work. Whether through her roles as an actor, director, or humanitarian, she channels the lessons she’s learned from Liza to create a more inclusive world.

Eva Longoria and Her Ongoing Mission

Eva’s Heroes is more than just a nonprofit—it’s a testament to the lessons Eva learned growing up with Liza. The organization continues to empower individuals with disabilities, helping them develop skills and confidence while creating lasting memories.

For Eva, it’s all deeply personal. “I owe everything—my values, my moral compass—because of how we grew up as a family,” she said on “TODAY.” And her work is far from done.

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