Jessica M. Colón
Jessica has served as an Educator at The New York Botanical Garden's Edible Academy, sharing her love for nature with students. Her diverse experience spans roles as a Museum Educator at the Westchester and Bronx Children's Museum, Historic Hudson Valley, Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and
Jessica M. Colón
Jessica has served as an Educator at The New York Botanical Garden's Edible Academy, sharing her love for nature with students. Her diverse experience spans roles as a Museum Educator at the Westchester and Bronx Children's Museum, Historic Hudson Valley, Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and Morris Jumel Mansion Museum.
Now, as the founder and President of For the People and Kids, Inc., Jessica dedicates herself full-time to bilingual education and community work. Additionally, she holds key roles as Co-Chair at the Mount Kisco Art Council and Community Organizer for Access Nature Project and Mt Kisco's Farmers Market. Her goal is to inspire collaboration among community members, nonprofits, and local partners, fostering community growth.
Jessica's profound connection to nature, commitment to education, and passion for inclusivity drive her advocacy for learning and environmental stewardship. As an educator and nonprofit leader, she aspires to leave a lasting, positive impact by nurturing curiosity and meaningful connections with the natural world.
Livia Fleming
Livia's educational journey has led her into the diverse fields of biotechnology, food, and cosmetic sciences. Inspired by her upbringing, enriched by her education, and driven by a profound passion for holistic medicine, Livia has wholeheartedly dedicated herself to the study of wild medicinal plants. Currently, she activ
Livia Fleming
Livia's educational journey has led her into the diverse fields of biotechnology, food, and cosmetic sciences. Inspired by her upbringing, enriched by her education, and driven by a profound passion for holistic medicine, Livia has wholeheartedly dedicated herself to the study of wild medicinal plants. Currently, she actively contributes to a sustainability committee within the BH district. Her unwavering commitment revolves around inspiring students to engage in community service, nurturing a profound connection with the environment, and offering support to those in need. Livia Fleming's exceptional background and education, combined with her fervent dedication to holistic medicine, have shaped her into a strong advocate for sustainable practices and the well-being of individuals and communities.
As our vice president, she channels her passion into a variety of initiatives aimed at promoting community service, fostering deep connections with nature, and harnessing the transformative power of holistic approaches.
Joseph Roman
Joe is a valuable member of our Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to our nonprofit. He currently serves as the Executive Director at Judicial Title Insurance, highlighting his leadership and management skills. However, Joe's journey is marked by a profound commitment to education
Joseph Roman
Joe is a valuable member of our Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to our nonprofit. He currently serves as the Executive Director at Judicial Title Insurance, highlighting his leadership and management skills. However, Joe's journey is marked by a profound commitment to education and community.
Following his graduation with honors (Cum laude) from Harvard University and before taking on his executive position, Joe devoted more than a decade to the field of education as an NYC History Teacher. During this time, he left a lasting, positive impact on the lives of numerous students.
Moreover, as the former President of Co-op City Little League, Joe not only contributed to the very league he had once been a part of as a child but also exemplified his dedication to instigating constructive change within his community.
In his role as Treasurer within our organization, Joe brings his financial expertise, strong work ethic, and deep passion for making a difference to our board. Since day one, he has been a staunch supporter of our cause.
Joe Roman's unwavering dedication to our organization's mission, along with his expertise and passion, drives us forward. We are fortunate to have him on our team.
Raysa J. Villalona
Raysa, an esteemed board member, leverages her extensive experience as an ESL teacher based in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, where she dedicates her days to teaching, interpreting, and translating. Beyond her role in education, Raysa is an enthusiastic reader with a lifelong commitment to journaling, a practice she embraced ev
Raysa J. Villalona
Raysa, an esteemed board member, leverages her extensive experience as an ESL teacher based in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, where she dedicates her days to teaching, interpreting, and translating. Beyond her role in education, Raysa is an enthusiastic reader with a lifelong commitment to journaling, a practice she embraced even before mastering the art of writing.
Raysa's passion extends to her roots, particularly her cherished girlhood memories in Washington Heights. Currently, she channels this passion into crafting a collection of essays and memoirs, weaving together the tapestry of her experiences.
Before embarking on her journey in education, Raysa dedicated her efforts to working with adolescents and community-based organizations. Her professional journey reflects a deep commitment to social justice and equity, values that continue to inspire her work and advocacy.
Raysa Villalona is more than an educator; she is a storyteller, an advocate, and a beacon of passion for the causes she holds dear.
Anthony M. Lopez
Anthony brings a unique blend of professional expertise and a deep passion for the arts to our nonprofit board. As the Vice President of Sales at Media Services, he offers a wealth of leadership and experience.
A native New Yorker, Anthony's upbringing in the diverse city of New York has cultivated his profound appreciatio
Anthony M. Lopez
Anthony brings a unique blend of professional expertise and a deep passion for the arts to our nonprofit board. As the Vice President of Sales at Media Services, he offers a wealth of leadership and experience.
A native New Yorker, Anthony's upbringing in the diverse city of New York has cultivated his profound appreciation for culture and creativity. He's not just a businessman; he's an artist and a lifelong cinephile, with a love for the arts and film that has driven his career.
Anthony's journey into the entertainment industry began in 2007 when he joined Media Services' Showbiz Software division. Here, he managed retail stores in New York and Los Angeles, as well as online sales operations, gaining invaluable insights into industry intricacies. In 2013, he transitioned to Media Services' payroll sales team, aligning his career with his passion for entertainment. Working with a variety of content creators, Anthony provides top-tier production payroll services, showcasing his dedication to excellence.
Anthony's journey from a New York upbringing to his current role as Vice President of Sales at Media Services, coupled with his passion for the arts and film, makes him an exceptional board member. His expertise and dedication enhance our organization's mission to foster a thriving creative community.
Rosalyn Maldonado, Esq.
With over two decades of experience, including a decade as Deputy General Counsel at Red Apple Group, Inc., overseeing various subsidiaries, including Gristede’s Supermarkets, Ms. Maldonado brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as a board member of a non-profit education organization.
Following her successfu
Rosalyn Maldonado, Esq.
With over two decades of experience, including a decade as Deputy General Counsel at Red Apple Group, Inc., overseeing various subsidiaries, including Gristede’s Supermarkets, Ms. Maldonado brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as a board member of a non-profit education organization.
Following her successful tenure at Red Apple, she further honed her skills during eight years at a boutique litigation defense firm, handling cases in both federal and state courts. Her extensive background in transactions and negotiations provides her with a unique perspective in addressing legal matters, making her exceptionally effective at assessing and evaluating cases.
Now, as a member of the board, Ms. Maldonado leverages her vast experience and strategic partnerships to contribute to the organization's mission, offering her insights into legal solutions, maximizing agreements, and providing expert guidance in matters of general corporate governance.
Rooted in her upbringing on her grandmother's mountainous Puerto Rican farm, Jessica developed a profound reverence for nature and a passion for education. Moving to New York City, she recognized the importance of bridging her dual cultural worlds.
Drawing from her diverse background, Jessica founded For the People and Kids!, an innovative
Rooted in her upbringing on her grandmother's mountainous Puerto Rican farm, Jessica developed a profound reverence for nature and a passion for education. Moving to New York City, she recognized the importance of bridging her dual cultural worlds.
Drawing from her diverse background, Jessica founded For the People and Kids!, an innovative educational company offering a myriad of STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) classes, kids' gardening programs, day camps, homeschooling initiatives, and after-school programming. In her teaching approach, she seamlessly blends English and Spanish, fostering an inclusive and accessible learning environment for a diverse audience, spanning children to adults.
Jessica's commitment to experiential, bilingual education creates an enriching atmosphere where curiosity thrives, and connections with the natural world deepen. Her teaching style incorporates hands-on experiences, interactive activities, and a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional classroom settings. By combining language inclusivity with a strong emphasis on STREAM disciplines, Jessica empowers learners of all ages to explore, discover, and develop a profound appreciation for the interconnected wonders of the world around them.
Livia Fleming's upbringing in the vast Slovakian forests immersed her in the beauty of nature, where she developed a deep appreciation for the farm-to-table lifestyle at her family's abundant farm. Her journey led her to pursue training in biotechnology and the fields of food and cosmetic sciences. Fuelled by her upbringing, education, an
Livia Fleming's upbringing in the vast Slovakian forests immersed her in the beauty of nature, where she developed a deep appreciation for the farm-to-table lifestyle at her family's abundant farm. Her journey led her to pursue training in biotechnology and the fields of food and cosmetic sciences. Fuelled by her upbringing, education, and profound passion for holistic medicine, Livia delved into the study of wild medicinal plants.
Embracing a whimsical perspective, Livia played a pivotal role in launching the enchanting 'Fairy Forest' at the Greenburgh Nature Center. Through this initiative, she aimed to create a magical space that allowed individuals to connect with nature and explore its wonders. Currently, Livia actively contributes to a sustainability committee in the BH district, where she dedicates her efforts to engaging students in community service and fostering a connection with the natural world, all while supporting those in need.
One of Livia's many talents is showcased in the products curated by Designed by Liv. Her creative vision and expertise shine through these unique kits, which embody her multifaceted abilities and dedication to providing exceptional experiences.
Livia Fleming's remarkable background, education, and commitment to holistic medicine have shaped her into a passionate advocate for sustainable practices and the well-being of individuals and communities. Through her various endeavors, she seeks to inspire others to engage in community service, forge connections with nature, and embrace the transformative power of holistic approaches.
Danielle Colavito, the visionary behind Soul Shining Wellness, is dedicated to empowering women to embrace health, wholeness, and the radiance of their souls. As a wife and mother of two energetic boys, Danielle's journey as a mother and her children's health challenges led her to shift her focus and career path. For the past decade, she
Danielle Colavito, the visionary behind Soul Shining Wellness, is dedicated to empowering women to embrace health, wholeness, and the radiance of their souls. As a wife and mother of two energetic boys, Danielle's journey as a mother and her children's health challenges led her to shift her focus and career path. For the past decade, she has devoted herself to helping families achieve wellness and prevention.
Having worked as an event planner for over 15 years, Danielle's transition into wellness and prevention was driven by her experiences and a deep desire to support other families. She is a certified Revelation Wellness® Fitness Instructor, Christian-based Wellness Coach, Urban Farmer, Professional Affiliate with the Juice Plus+ Company, and a dedicated Homeschool Mom. Danielle passionately works with fellow mothers through her diverse skill set, providing guidance and support on their family's wellness journey.
Whether leading invigorating workouts, facilitating women's small groups, or teaching families how to nourish their bodies and cultivate their food year-round, Danielle finds immense joy in witnessing families thrive. Her commitment to empowering others and creating a nurturing community is at the heart of Soul Shining Wellness.
Danielle Colavito's holistic approach to wellness, rooted in her personal experiences, fuels her passion for supporting women and families in achieving optimal health and wholeness. Through her business and ministry, she fosters a space where women can let their souls shine, embracing wellness as a pathway to radiant living.
Katie Sheehan, formerly a School Psychologist,
draws from her profound understanding of education and child development. In addition to her roles within her family and in academia, Katie is also an accomplished fiber artist and an ardent advocate for the arts and environmental conservation. Alongside her husband, Patrick, she has co-foun
Katie Sheehan, formerly a School Psychologist,
draws from her profound understanding of education and child development. In addition to her roles within her family and in academia, Katie is also an accomplished fiber artist and an ardent advocate for the arts and environmental conservation. Alongside her husband, Patrick, she has co-founded Hippie Feet Tie Dyes, their own company dedicated to spreading creativity through crafting and fiber arts classes.
Katie introduces young minds to an early appreciation for the environment through hands-on experiences such as tending to her garden and imparting sustainable practices. Her life seamlessly blends the roles of motherhood, her educational expertise, artistic creativity, and her unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. She is a dedicated educator, a nurturing guide, a creative spirit, and an impassioned champion for a sustainable way of life.
Anna Mayta, originally from Chile, is an accomplished educator, dance improviser, choreographer, and dance artist. She earned her BA in Dance in Education from Empire State College in June 2001. In November 2008, she obtained a certificate to teach yoga from Svyasa Swami Vivekananda Yoga University in Bangalore, India. Recognized for her
Anna Mayta, originally from Chile, is an accomplished educator, dance improviser, choreographer, and dance artist. She earned her BA in Dance in Education from Empire State College in June 2001. In November 2008, she obtained a certificate to teach yoga from Svyasa Swami Vivekananda Yoga University in Bangalore, India. Recognized for her talent and contributions, Anna received a dissemination award from the Dutchess County Arts Council in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 2006.
In October 2020, Anna was selected for a residency at the Bethany Arts Center in Ossining, NY, where she crafted a solo dance piece advocating for gender equality. Her dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices continued in 2022 when she was granted funding from CREATE to choreograph a piece highlighting the experiences of the Latinx community in Hudson, NY, confronting linguistic prejudice. Anna Mayta is passionate about teaching and shares her expertise through various mediums. She specializes in teaching Spanish through movement and fusion dance, seamlessly blending African, Classical Indian, Flamenco, Chilean, Modern, and Latin dance styles. Anna serves as an adjunct professor of dance at Columbia Greene Community College in Hudson, NY, and conducts classes throughout the Hudson Valley, NY, and Berkshire area.
In addition to her teaching commitments, Anna directs her dance company, Mayta Fusion Dance, where she continues to inspire and innovate within the dance community.
Immersed in the world of yoga since 2011, Nicole Sidman, the creative force behind Anahata Yoga, LLC, teaches with a deep passion and an infectious sense of pure joy. Holding prestigious certifications from Yoga Alliance as a 500-hour Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) and a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Teacher (YACEP), Nic
Immersed in the world of yoga since 2011, Nicole Sidman, the creative force behind Anahata Yoga, LLC, teaches with a deep passion and an infectious sense of pure joy. Holding prestigious certifications from Yoga Alliance as a 500-hour Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) and a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Teacher (YACEP), Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice.
With a commitment to sharing the transformative power of yoga, Nicole has not only led numerous yoga teacher trainings but has also curated a diverse array of workshops and wellness programs. Her teaching style goes beyond the physical practice, delving into the spiritual and holistic aspects of yoga.
Nicole's philosophy revolves around the profound connection between movement, breath, and our sacred Earth. She emphasizes the significance of staying attuned to one's Divine essence, fostering a journey of self-discovery and inner harmony. In her classes, Nicole inspires others to explore the deeper dimensions of yoga, creating a space where individuals can embark on a transformative and empowering journey. Join Nicole on the mat to experience the fusion of joy, mindfulness, and connection that defines the essence of Anahata Yoga.
Shoshanna Rome's childhood in Japan provided her with a unique upbringing, foraging wild edibles and herbs alongside her mother and grandfather. This early exposure sparked her lifelong passion for alternative medicine. In her early twenties, Shoshanna embarked on an immersive herbal internship at Herb Pharm in Williams, Oregon, deepening
Shoshanna Rome's childhood in Japan provided her with a unique upbringing, foraging wild edibles and herbs alongside her mother and grandfather. This early exposure sparked her lifelong passion for alternative medicine. In her early twenties, Shoshanna embarked on an immersive herbal internship at Herb Pharm in Williams, Oregon, deepening her understanding of herbal remedies.
Driven by her unwavering curiosity, Shoshanna actively seeks opportunities to expand her knowledge in herbal medicine. She has attended numerous conferences and workshops across the United States, constantly enriching her expertise in the field. Her dedication to herbal medicine extends beyond personal growth - she firmly believes in integrating plant-based remedies into daily life for nourishment and overall well-being.
Shoshanna's mission goes beyond her own journey. She is committed to making herbal knowledge accessible to all individuals, regardless of their background or level of familiarity with the subject. Her aim is to inspire and empower those with a budding curiosity in herbal medicine, providing them with the tools to incorporate plant medicine into their lives.
Shoshanna Rome's deep-rooted connection to nature, coupled with her extensive training and passion for alternative medicine, makes her a valuable resource in the realm of herbal remedies. Through her advocacy and accessible approach, she strives to promote the benefits of plant medicine and contribute to the overall health and vitality of individuals seeking natural alternatives.
Brigitte Bürgler is a dedicated science educator and a mother of three boys. Her diverse background spans countries such as Brazil (her birthplace), Cameroon, Ghana, Mozambique, and the United States. Fluent in Portuguese, French, and English, she leveraged her linguistic skills as a consultant, evaluating health, environmental, and huma
Brigitte Bürgler is a dedicated science educator and a mother of three boys. Her diverse background spans countries such as Brazil (her birthplace), Cameroon, Ghana, Mozambique, and the United States. Fluent in Portuguese, French, and English, she leveraged her linguistic skills as a consultant, evaluating health, environmental, and humanitarian projects for international development organizations around the world.
In recent years, Brigitte has played a pivotal role as a science teacher, impacting the lives of over a thousand students in New York City's public schools. Her commitment and innovation in science education were recognized with prestigious awards, including New York University's Astor Fellowship for her exemplary dedication and Math for America's Master Teacher Fellowship.
Brigitte's teaching philosophy centers on engaging students through hands-on investigations, making complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting. Beyond her professional life, she finds joy in exploring the world, delving into scientific literature, immersing herself in diverse cultures, and nurturing sustainable gardening practices.
Sheryl Farrell is a passionate homeschool educator with a love for fiber arts, gardening, and culinary pursuits. Her dedication to providing a holistic educational experience, coupled with her natural rapport with children, makes her an effective educator.
Sheryl's creative talents shine in the world of fiber arts, including crochet, knitt
Sheryl Farrell is a passionate homeschool educator with a love for fiber arts, gardening, and culinary pursuits. Her dedication to providing a holistic educational experience, coupled with her natural rapport with children, makes her an effective educator.
Sheryl's creative talents shine in the world of fiber arts, including crochet, knitting, spinning fiber on a drop spindle, and exploring the art of dyeing fiber. Additionally, she has spent the past decade cultivating a flourishing vegetable garden and mastering food preservation techniques such as fermenting, canning, and dehydrating. Her culinary skills extend to crafting sourdough bread and growing as a novice herbalist.
Sheryl's artistic endeavors have ranged from watercolor painting to clay work, but her true passion lies in education. She excels in teaching a broad spectrum of subjects, including Science, Mathematics, English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies, Geography, Art, Health, and Physical Education.
Education isn't just a profession for Sheryl; it's a personal obsession. Her keen attention to detail and superb organizational skills ensure that each student's learning experience is tailored to their unique needs. Above all, her genuine connection with children fosters an environment where their growth and development flourish.
With nine years of experience as a Pre-K educator, Amanda Gordon is a dedicated professional in early childhood education. Recognizing the pivotal role of the early years in shaping a lifelong love for learning, she is committed to providing engaging virtual lessons that promote hands-on exploration.
Amanda's teaching style brings lessons
With nine years of experience as a Pre-K educator, Amanda Gordon is a dedicated professional in early childhood education. Recognizing the pivotal role of the early years in shaping a lifelong love for learning, she is committed to providing engaging virtual lessons that promote hands-on exploration.
Amanda's teaching style brings lessons to life, fostering interactive and immersive experiences for young learners. In particular, she embraces the spirit of holidays, designing lessons that inspire and encourage family togetherness during these special occasions.
Amanda's educational background includes a BA in Education from West Texas A&M University, complemented by her possession of a New York State Early Childhood Certification. These qualifications further underscore her expertise and dedication to creating impactful learning experiences for children.
Robin Vernucchio brings a wealth of experience as a former science teacher, having taught grades pre-K through 6. She is passionate about providing engaging and interactive learning experiences for her students in virtual and in-person settings. Robin employs hands-on S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) me
Robin Vernucchio brings a wealth of experience as a former science teacher, having taught grades pre-K through 6. She is passionate about providing engaging and interactive learning experiences for her students in virtual and in-person settings. Robin employs hands-on S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) methods to make her classes come alive.
In addition to her work in the classroom, Robin shares her expertise with fellow educators through workshops conducted at local conferences and National Science Teacher Association Conventions. Her dedication to promoting science education extends beyond traditional school settings. Robin is a museum educator and teaches homeschool groups, leveraging her expertise to create enriching learning opportunities.
Robin has been recognized for her exceptional teaching abilities for many years, having developed and led highly regarded informal science camps. Her commitment to science education has led her to be appointed as a James Webb Space Telescope First Image Host and a J.P.L. Solar System Ambassador volunteer for NASA, further showcasing her passion for astronomy and space exploration. Robin is also a valued member of the New York Paleontological Society, actively engaging in the study and preservation of paleontology.
Through her extensive experience, passion for teaching, and involvement in scientific communities, Robin Vernucchio continues to inspire and educate students and fellow educators in the field of science.
Anna Mayta, originally from Chile, is an accomplished educator, dance improviser, choreographer, and dance artist. She earned her BA in Dance in Education from Empire State College in June 2001. In November 2008, she obtained a certificate to teach yoga from Svyasa Swami Vivekananda Yoga University in Bangalore, India. Recognized for her
Anna Mayta, originally from Chile, is an accomplished educator, dance improviser, choreographer, and dance artist. She earned her BA in Dance in Education from Empire State College in June 2001. In November 2008, she obtained a certificate to teach yoga from Svyasa Swami Vivekananda Yoga University in Bangalore, India. Recognized for her talent and contributions, Anna received a dissemination award from the Dutchess County Arts Council in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 2006.
In October 2020, Anna was selected for a residency at the Bethany Arts Center in Ossining, NY, where she crafted a solo dance piece advocating for gender equality. Her dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices continued in 2022 when she was granted funding from CREATE to choreograph a piece highlighting the experiences of the Latinx community in Hudson, NY, confronting linguistic prejudice. Anna Mayta is passionate about teaching and shares her expertise through various mediums. She specializes in teaching Spanish through movement and fusion dance, seamlessly blending African, Classical Indian, Flamenco, Chilean, Modern, and Latin dance styles. Anna serves as an adjunct professor of dance at Columbia Greene Community College in Hudson, NY, and conducts classes throughout the Hudson Valley, NY, and Berkshire area.
In addition to her teaching commitments, Anna directs her dance company, Mayta Fusion Dance, where she continues to inspire and innovate within the dance community.
At For the People and Kids, Inc., we are committed to fostering an environment that prioritizes Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) in all aspects of our operations. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or abilities, deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. Our commitment to EDIA is not just a statement, but a fundamental principle guiding our daily actions and decisions. We strive to create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and included. We actively promote diversity and representation across all levels of our organization, recognizing that different perspectives enrich our work and drive innovation.
Furthermore, we are dedicated to ensuring accessibility for all individuals, removing barriers, and providing accommodations to facilitate full participation and engagement. We continuously assess and improve our practices to ensure that our services, facilities, and resources are accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. In pursuit of equity, we prioritize fairness and justice, striving to address systemic inequalities and create opportunities for marginalized groups to thrive. We are committed to fostering an environment where everyone has equal access to opportunities for growth, advancement, and success. Ultimately, our commitment to EDIA is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic advantage. By embracing diversity, fostering inclusion, and promoting accessibility, we are better positioned to innovate, collaborate, and achieve our collective goals. We recognize that our journey toward equity and inclusion is ongoing, and we remain dedicated to continuously learning, evolving, and taking action to create a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
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Our CommUNITY programs cover a diverse array of activities, from fun educational workshops and recreational outings to essential nutritional awareness, social support gatherings, cultural events, and beyond. The goal is simple: to meet the needs and passions of our community, bring people together, and boost everyone's happiness and well-being.