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In the United States, more than one in five children are living in poverty. The effects of poverty on children can cause a wide range of challenges for both children and their families. There are particularly negative outcomes related to educational attainment and income earned. Children who grow up impoverished complete fewer years of schooling and earn much lower incomes than those who did not grow up poor. Thirty percent of children raised in poverty do not finish high school. This inequity is even most pronounced among children of color as both Black and Hispanic students graduate high school at lower rates than the national average. Even more pronounced are the racial gaps in college graduation. Only 51.5% of Black and Hispanic students graduate college after six years, while the figure for white students stands at nearly 70%.These challenges are exacerbated in underprivileged areas where students often start high school with literacy levels significantly behind their more affluent peers.

The Mariano Rivera Foundation confronts these inequalities head-on through targeted programs in these underserved communities. Central to our mission is the 653 Mentorship Program, which bridges gaps in education by providing access to essential resources and training – as well as the opportunity for employment following successful program completion. Our 653 Mentorship program includes life skills workshops, one-on-one coaching, and digital printing job training and opportunities, all designed to cultivate a holistic approach to personal and educational development covering four bases:

  • First Base: Introduction to Personal Development, including personal presentation, character building, and goal-setting
  • Second Base: Technical Training & Education, including a suite of technical certifications for employment
  • Third Base: Career Readiness, including budgeting, financial literacy, and resume preparations
  • Home Plate: Career Launch, including 1:1 mentorship and job performance coaching

Meet Carlos Perez

Program Director of the Mariano Rivera Foundation’s Save 653 Mentorship program.

Carlos Perez is the esteemed principal of Windsor School in Pompton Lakes, NJ, a distinguished institution catering to students with learning and behavioral challenges. With over 15 years of educational expertise, Carlos has collaborated with prominent districts including Jersey City Public Schools, Newark Public Schools, and Newark Charter Schools. He holds a Master's in Educational Leadership and another in Theology Urban Ministry, currently pursuing his Doctorate in Ministry from Gordon Conwell.

Beyond his administrative role, Carlos is a dynamic motivational speaker, captivating audiences nationally and internationally. His impactful speaking engagements have touched lives in juvenile centers, youth programs, camps, and professional NFL teams.

Before his distinguished career in education and mentorship in Newark, NJ, Carlos excelled on the football field as a three-year starter at the University of Florida, garnering invaluable lessons in teamwork and leadership. As a former member of the 2004-2005 NFC champion team, the Philadelphia Eagles, Carlos brings a wealth of experience to his role as a mentor, guiding others through life's transitions with wisdom gained from his NFL journey.

In the heart of Panama, nestled within the vibrant fishing village of Puerto Caimito, lies a community very special to me. It's where I first learned the values of hard work, resilience, and the power of dreams. Today, I am thrilled to share an opportunity to profoundly impact this community by building a school where the future generation can thrive, learn, and dream big.

Please Join Mariano Rivera in Building a School in Puerto Caimito

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Save 653

Be A Part Of Mariano's Biggest Save

Marino Rivera, MLB All-Time Saves Leader 652, now Mariano's Biggest Save 653, The Mariano Rivera Foundation. Youth from impoverished families are at a disadvantage, lacking the necessary resources and relationships to succeed in today’s world. The Mariano Rivera Foundation is dedicated to creating a reality where each child is afforded an opportunity to see beyond their circumstances, and discover new ways to confidently create a better life.

Donate

Save 653

Be A Part Of Mariano's Biggest Save

Marino Rivera, MLB All-Time Saves Leader 652, now Mariano's Biggest Save 653, The Mariano Rivera Foundation. Youth from impoverished families are at a disadvantage, lacking the necessary resources and relationships to succeed in today’s world. The Mariano Rivera Foundation is dedicated to creating a reality where each child is afforded an opportunity to see beyond their circumstances, and discover new ways to confidently create a better life.

Donate

We aspire to be our best, living by example as we invite others to join our endeavor.

Our combined efforts will help to inspire kids to be STRONG as their confidence is being built, be BRAVE in the midst of the challenges they face, and be reminded that they are CAPABLE of achieving a brighter future.

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