Press Release 10/3/19
PERTH AMBOY – On October 16, 2019 Jessica Guevarra a Dr. Herbert N. Richardson School teacher for students of different abilities, was to receive the 2019 Jack Cerulo YMCA Leader Award. The award being awarded at the Woodbridge Metro Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Awards Dinner at the Renaissance Hotel Woodbridge.
Jack Cerulo was a lifelong volunteer who was committed, through his time and talents, to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. When Jack supported the Y, he fulfilled his passion to help local children and families. Jack understood the challenges facing families in his hometown and the responsibility The Y played in their lives. Fortunately, where some saw obstacles, Jack saw opportunities!
Just like Jack, Jessica is a positive influence and makes every effort to engage children and families in the community of Perth Amboy. She espouses the core values of the Y and truly exemplifies our mission to help others learn, grow and thrive. The Dr. Herbert N. Richardson School is the home to a huge team of educators and administrators who all share the same goal for students.
Jessica has been the catalyst of advancements in programming and extra-curricular activities for not only the students but their families as well. She presented a proposal to the Y to offer students an Adaptive Swim Program where students were able to learn to swim safety at the Y where most of their parents never thought taking them was a possibility. With the partnership of the Y and Perth Amboy Police Department later that year flourished an amazing first ever Walk for Awareness from the Richard School to the Police Department which then held a ceremony and lastly set free balloons in honor of all those with disabilities.
“Jack left indelible footprints in so many of our lives. I know that Jessica continues to carry on his legacy of goodwill and love for kids by her commitment and dedication,” said Steve Jobin, President & CEO, RARITAN BAY AREA YMCA.
The goal of any educator is to make a difference in a child’s life. Jessica had no idea how much of a difference her students, their families, and this community would impact hers. Jessica said, “to receive the Jack Cerulo Civic Leader award is an incredible opportunity. The opportunity to watch the growth, of all students, into leading fulfilling and purposeful lives with the love and support of school and community. It is an honor and dream come true.”
