Hispanic Heritage Month with Board Member Jerry Rivera

Meet Jerry Rivera, a Director at Accordion and a member of Brooklyn Community Services Board of Directors. In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we spoke with Jerry about the role family and community have played in his life and why he continues to serve Brooklyn.

A Community That Feels Like Family

For Jerry, his Hispanic heritage has shaped how he cares for others. Growing up, he could count on the support of both his family and his community. Today, he tries to offer that same support in his personal and professional life.

“My Hispanic heritage gives me a deep appreciation for family and community, especially when your community is often considered part of your family (‘la familia’),” he says.

Born and raised in New York City, Jerry also learned early on how varied Hispanic and Latino experiences can be. At times, he was surrounded by people who shared his heritage but came from different countries. At other times, he was the only Hispanic or Latino person in the room. Both experiences helped him appreciate his own identity and the diversity of the city he calls home.

That sense of belonging shapes his view of community care: “You support ‘la familia.’ When you succeed, they succeed. You look out for your neighbors with that shared sense of belonging.”

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Finding a Way to Give Back

Jerry has long looked for ways to support his neighbors. Over the years, he has cleaned and painted New York City parks and schools, walked shelter dogs, and taught financial literacy to elementary school students. He wanted to deepen that involvement by serving on a nonprofit board.

In late 2010, Jerry joined the board of Turning Point Brooklyn. After its merger with BCS, he continued serving on the BCS board. While he now lives in Queens, Brooklyn remains part of his community.

As life has gotten busier, board service has allowed Jerry to stay involved, even when he has less time to attend volunteer events. “The impact that BCS is having on the community makes me feel proud that I am contributing in some way,” he says.

Looking Ahead

Jerry hopes BCS can continue to be there for Brooklynites as the cost of living rises and community support resources become harder to secure. Through his continued board service, he wants to help the organization provide housing, wellness, educational, and other support for years to come.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re grateful to Jerry for the time and care he has given to our community since 2010. His commitment reflects a belief that has guided him throughout his life: when we look out for our neighbors, we help la familia thrive.