Day Of Service

We Are Working With Our Community Partners To Finalize Some Of Our Locations As Their Needs Have Changed. More Locations & Additional Information Will Be Added Soon.

DUE TO THE SPEED IN WHICH SPOTS FILL UP AND TO MAINTAIN A LEVEL OF FAIRNESS, 

SIGN-UPS WILL BEGIN ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2024, AT 9:00 A.M.

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THANK YOU TO OUR 

DAY OF SERVICE PRESENTING SPONSORS

DAY OF SERVICE TRANSPORTATION SPONSORED BY

MEDICAL SUPPLY DROPS

Apart from the Day of Service Sites Listed Below, In Partnership with The AYFA Foundation, Our Team Will Continue To Do Medical Supply Drops To Organizations In Need As Part Of Our Service Initiatives. 

This Initiative Has Been Made Possible By The Generosity of Our Sponsors 

(PAYE) Piñones Aprende y Emprende:

Return to PAYE & See The Progress Since Our First Day Of Service in 2021

Overview: Join us in supporting Piñones Aprende y Emprende (P.A.Y.E.), a community-centered non-profit dedicated to fostering education, culture, and development in Piñones (Loíza). Established in 2018 after Hurricane Maria, P.A.Y.E. has transformed a former community school into a hub of learning and empowerment. Through workshops, tutorials, and various initiatives, it provides essential resources and skills to children, youth, and families, helping to uplift the entire community.

2024 Service Plans: During the 2024 SOMOS Inc. Puerto Rico Conference, we will return to P.A.Y.E., located just 15-20 minutes from the host hotel, for a hands-on service day. Building on our long-standing collaboration, we will work alongside our partners—The Building Trades, union affiliates, HEART 9/11, and others—to engage in the following activities:

• Minor repairs to improve the facility
• Light yard clean-up, possible planting, and painting
• Assembling furniture to furnish newly repaired classrooms and community areas (minimal skills required)
• A community conversation (workshop) about ongoing needs and future plans
• A guided tour showcasing the organization's growth and success
• Lunch for participants and community members
• Donation of school and medical supplies to benefit local families

This service day will highlight the incredible progress P.A.Y.E. has made, evolving from a labor-intensive restoration project to a fully functional community center that serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity.

Our Journey with P.A.Y.E.:

• 2018 - 2020: After the closure of the Emiliano Figueroa Torres community school, the local community began transforming the space, even without power, to meet the needs of children and families. P.A.Y.E. emerged to provide structured support, offering educational and cultural programming.
• 2021: In partnership with HEART 9/11, the Building & Construction Trades Council of Greater NY, and their affiliates, SOMOS Inc. helped conduct major repairs to restore the facility, including window and door replacements, painting, and bathroom renovations. Over 50 volunteers participated in this transformation.
• 2022: Continued support allowed P.A.Y.E. to host its first summer camp, and we recognized Founder & Director Tanisha Gaspar for her leadership.
• 2023: We addressed a critical need by funding and installing solar panels for the community kitchen, ensuring reliable power for food preparation and enhancing water access.

Why This Matters: Loíza/Piñones has historically been underserved, and P.A.Y.E. plays a crucial role in filling gaps in education, skills training, and community support. Each year, our efforts help this organization expand its reach and impact. The 2024 service day is a chance to celebrate and contribute to the resilience and growth of P.A.Y.E., supporting its vision of a brighter future for the Piñones community.

Things to Know:

• Recommended Gear: Closed-toe shoes are required for safety during service activities.
• Partnerships: This initiative is made possible through the continued collaboration with the Building Trades, union partners, HEART 9/11, and other dedicated organizations.
• Location & Logistics: P.A.Y.E. is located approximately 15-20 minutes from the host hotel, and transportation details will be provided.

This Site Is in Partnership & Proudly Sponsored By:

The Soloviev Foundation 

AECOM Tishman   

A Day At Centro Esperanza Para La Vejez W. Catholic Charities

Location: Centro Esperanza para la Vejez, Calle Salvador Brau, #2, Carolina, PR 00985

About Centro Esperanza para la Vejez: Founded in 1966, Esperanza para la Vejez, Inc. was the first organized effort in Puerto Rico to offer services to elderly individuals living under the poverty line. This private non-profit ensures the well-being of elderly Puerto Ricans, improving their quality of life through comprehensive, community-focused services. The center's mission is to enhance the social, emotional, economic, physical, and spiritual aspects of life for seniors without distinction of class, race, or political affiliation. Under the leadership of Executive Director Zoraida Vega, the organization continues to uphold its commitment to serving the elderly with dignity and care.
Website: www.esperanzaparalaveje.org

Day of Service Goal: Isolation is a significant issue among seniors in Puerto Rico. Our goal for the Day of Service is to engage with the seniors at Centro Esperanza para la Vejez, fostering social connection through meaningful interactions. Volunteers will help create a warm, inclusive environment by participating in planned activities, such as dancing, playing board games, and sharing a meal.

Volunteer Activities:

• Engagement & Social Activities: Volunteers will socialize with the seniors, encouraging them to participate in fun activities like board games and dancing.
• Meal Service: Volunteers will assist in serving meals to the seniors, making mealtime a joyful, shared experience.
• Care Package Assembly: Volunteers will help pack toiletries and other necessary items for distribution to the seniors.
• Wellness Checks: We encourage individuals with nursing or medical training to volunteer and assist with basic wellness checks, such as blood pressure screenings, throughout the day.

• Number of Seniors at the Center: Approximately 35

Transportation: Transportation will be provided to and from the host hotel, with buses departing at 9:30 a.m.

About Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York is dedicated to upholding the dignity of each individual by meeting the basic needs of the poor, frail, and oppressed, regardless of their background or religion. Through a network of affiliated agencies, Catholic Charities coordinates quality human services to address almost every aspect of human need. Guided by principles of justice and compassion, the organization advocates for government policies that ensure access to essential resources, including housing, food security, support for disabilities, and strengthening families.

This Site Proudly Sponsored By 

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN POSSIBLY BEING A PLAYER FOR THE 3V3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT? 

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

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If there is space on a team, we will contact you

Backpack Packing at the Host Hotel

Overview: Looking for a way to give back without committing to a full Day of Service? Our Backpack Packing event at the host hotel offers a convenient and impactful opportunity to support the local community. Whether you’re balancing multiple activities or simply want to lend a hand, this activity allows you to contribute to a meaningful cause during your time at the conference.

Event Details: Participants will help pack backpacks with essential school supplies, which will be distributed to local organizations supporting students in need. Your efforts will ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed in their education. This is a great chance to make a lasting impact on the community while working alongside fellow attendees in a collaborative, welcoming environment.

Why Join?

• Flexible Participation: Perfect for those with busy schedules who still want to make a difference.
• Community Impact: Your contribution will directly benefit local students, helping to set them up for success.
• Team Effort: Enjoy the spirit of collaboration and community as you pack alongside other participants.

This activity takes approximately 15 – 20 minutes, so you are free to arrive any time during your selected time slot.

This Site Is Proudly Sponsored By

Hosts Organizations: 

Muslim Community Network, Emgage, 3 Puerto Rican Imams, Islamic Relief, SOMOS

Hosts Site: 

Centro Islamico del Caribe, Masjid Montehiedra

Event Date:

Friday, November 8, 2024 10AM - 3PM

Overview:
Join us for a meaningful day in Puerto Rico to connect with and support the island’s vibrant Muslim community. With over 5,000 Muslims on the island, Puerto Rico’s Muslim community actively contributes to local society through education, civic engagement, and disaster relief. SOMOS invites leaders, advocates, and community members to engage in discussions on climate resilience and community service, strengthening bonds that foster understanding and mutual support.

Event Schedule:

• 10:00 AM – Pickup from Caribe Hilton Hotel
  Transportation will be provided from Caribe Hilton to Centro Islamico del Caribe for the day's events.

• 11:00 AM – Panel Discussion: “The Role of Puerto Rico’s Muslim Community in Climate Resilience and Disaster Relief”
  Location: Centro Islamico del Caribe, Masjid Montehiedra
  Panelists will discuss the Muslim community's role in relief and resilience efforts, including insights from local leaders and Islamic Relief representatives.

• 12:00 PM – Day of Service & Community Engagement
  Engage in hands-on service activities, setting up the community food pantry and organizing resources for local families.

• 1:00 PM – Jummah (Friday) Prayer
  Participants are welcome to observe or join the Jummah prayer. Modest dress is requested, and scarves will be available for head covering.

• 1:30 PM – Lunch and Food Pantry Distribution
  Enjoy a provided lunch and assist with the food distribution for local families, organized withIslamic Relief.

• 2:45 PM – Conclusion of Activities and Return to Hotel

  Transportation will be provided back to the Caribe Hilton Hotel.

Participant Guidelines:

• Dress Code: Modest attire is requested. Scarves will be provided for anyone wishing to cover their head.
• Transportation: Pickup from Caribe Hilton at 10:00 AM, with return after the conclusion of the event at 2:30 PM.
• Meals: Light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

FOR THIS SITE PLEASE RSVP BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW

• RSVP: tinyurl.com/somoscommunityservice

What They Plant

CRESPR

Coalición Restauración Ecosistemas Santurcinos, Puerto Rico

CRES, the Coalición Restauración de Ecosistemas Santurcinos, is a nonprofit working in Puerto Rico towards restoration and conservations of the natural environment. Their projects have included working on conservation for the coral reefs and dunes, reforestation, cleaning the coastlines and implementing better recycling systems!

Their Bucaré Urban Garden (BUG) is an urban-community garden and nursery in San Juan, located in the Punta Las Marías area. The site is also used to offer workshops in propagation of plants, bioconstruction, composting and permaculture, and other topics.

Forest Community, Skateboard Park, Punta las Marias and Community Garden

CRESPR Website

Things To Know

• Clothing: sun protection, water bottles, closed shoes (NO Sandals) 
• You may get wet
• This site is fully outdoors
• Participants are encouraged to take the provided transportation.
• Parking is very limited near the location.

Activity

• Skate Park: support skaters in the reconstruction of a ramp, building trash can from wood pallets, painting walls and educational signs 
• Coastal Forest: planting, removing grass, coastal cleanup. 
• Green Garden: transplanting and preparing compost

This Site Is Proudly Sponsored by

NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL 

The New York Botanical Garden

La Pica Project: Sembrando Semillas, Puerto Rico

Overview: The Jayuya La Pica Project is focused on transforming a former youth incarceration facility into a vibrant community center dedicated to education and skills development. The initiative aims to cultivate a thriving environment for both individuals on-site and the broader community. By building partnerships with like-minded organizations and collaborating with visionary leaders, La Pica seeks to empower future generations while preserving local cultural history and the surrounding land. Through collaboration, the project supports sustainable socioeconomic growth.

Event Details: Participants are invited to join the team for an informative community conversation, a guided tour, and lunch. This experience will serve as a starting point for gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the local community and how the La Pica Project fosters collaboration to create a sustainable future.

Optional Pre-Event Workshop: While attendance at the workshop on Thursday is not mandatory, it is recommended for those who wish to learn more about the project's mission and impact.

THINGS TO KNOW

THE VANS WILL DEPART THE HOST HOTEL AT 7AM

PARTICIPANTS MUST TAKE THE TRANSPORTATION PROVIDED

• The commute to the location is approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
• Feel free to bring a snack for the bus ride 
• This location will have smaller vans there is no restroom on the van.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing
• Closed Toe Shoes Are Recommended  
• Water Bottle Recommended

RETURN TO HOST HOTEL BY 3:30 PM 

Lunch Provided 

The New York Foundling: John Cardinal O’Connor Early Head Start

Location: NY Foundling John Cardinal O’Connor Early Head Start and Head Start Site, 2372 Calle Santa Elena, San Juan, PR 00915

Transportation Provided - Participants can also arrive on own.

Overview: Since its founding in 1869, The New York Foundling has been a cornerstone of support for children, adults, and families on their journeys toward stability and independence. With a deep commitment to communities in New York and Puerto Rico, The Foundling has provided transformative services since 1973, including its Head Start and Early Head Start programs, which currently serve over 1,500 families across 42 centers in Puerto Rico.

For the 2024 SOMOS Inc. Puerto Rico Conference, The Foundling will host a two-part event at the John Cardinal O’Connor Early Head Start and Head Start site in San Juan. This event will highlight ongoing efforts to support families and mark the grand re-opening of newly renovated spaces designed to better serve the community.

Event Details:

1. Service Project (9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.): Volunteers will participate in a hurricane/storm readiness packet and school supply giveaway for the 140 families served by The Foundling’s San Juan programs. This initiative aims to equip families with essential resources to prepare for storm season, as well as to provide school supplies to support children’s education.

2. Grand Re-Opening: This is in part a celebration for the re-opening of the O’Connor site, showcasing the new classrooms and a storm shelter that will serve the center families and the surrounding community. Attendees will learn about the ongoing efforts to enhance the facility and its impact on the community.

3. Tour & Lunch (12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.): Volunteers will be given a guided tour of the newly constructed classrooms and storm shelter, lunch provided.

Bus Depart At 9:00am 

Back at host hotel by 2pm

1st Annual SOMOS Inc. Conference Basketball Tournament

Location: YMCA of San Juan

Overview: Join us for the 1st Annual SOMOS Inc. Conference Basketball Tournament, a 3v3 charity event at the YMCA of San Juan. Hosted by Assemblymember Karines Reyes, Chair of the NYS Puerto Rican & Hispanic Assembly/Senate Task Force, and Task Force Member Senator Jamaal Bailey, this exciting tournament brings together Task Force members, elected officials, sponsors, and community partners for a friendly competition, all in support of local causes and our Puerto Rico Based Scholarship Program.

About the YMCA of San Juan: Since its establishment in 1913, the YMCA of San Juan has been a cornerstone of community engagement and development. As part of the broader YMCA movement that began in Puerto Rico in 1899, the San Juan branch introduced many firsts to the island, including the first public basketball courts, swimming pool, and even the Boy Scouts program. Today, the YMCA continues to provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all ages to learn, grow, and thrive through diverse programs focused on education, health, and wellness.

Event Highlights:

• 3v3 Basketball Tournament: Watch as Task Force members, elected officials, sponsors, and community partners hit the court in a fun, competitive tournament to raise funds for local initiatives.
• Community Engagement: The event is an opportunity to strengthen ties within the community, highlighting the importance of sports and wellness initiatives that bring people together.
• Support a Great Cause: Proceeds from the tournament will support, local causes and our Puerto Rico Based Scholarship Program, furthering our mission and support of the local community.

Why Attend? This event marks the beginning of an annual tradition celebrating sportsmanship, community, and charity. It underscores the commitment of local leaders, sponsors, and partners to fostering community well-being. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines or supporting through donations, your participation will help support local programs and students.

LIMITED SEATING 

TRANSPORTATION PROVIDED

This Site Is Proudly Sponsored By

Supporting Sponsors

YMCA of San Juan & New York

     LeRoi Capital 
    Expeditious Braid Slay 

#1 Escuela Montessori Manuel Elzaburu y Vizcarrondo

Calle Madison, Esquina Residencial Las Margaritas, Cantera , San Juan, Puerto Rico

Join the AFT, AMPR, PEF, NYSUT, UFT, at Escuela Montessori Manuel Elzaburu y Vizcarrondo. 

We will restore an outside basketball court, paint common areas and retouch outdoor games, replace basketball hoops, swings and clean an area to plant trees and plants. 

We will host “La Lectura Abre el Mundo” Book giveaway where we will distribute FREE Books and backpacks for all students.

The school will be in session serving 480 children ages from babies to 8^th grade students. 

Things to Know:

Escuela Montessori Manuel Elzaburu y Vizcarrondo, is located 15 minutes from the host hotel in San Juan.

The work at hand is mostly outside.

We will do a Book giveaway as part of the AFT “Ola de Libros” Campaign.

Clothing:

Please wear your organization t-shirt, comfortable clothing, and shoes - No sandals, ONLY closed toe shoes. 

Donations: The school will accept donations of:

4 basketball hoops.

10 basketballs of all sizes (PreK- 8^th grade).

4 Outdoor swings,

Art materials for all ages.

500 backpacks.

4 overhead projectors.

4 printers, ink cartages and copy paper.

Projects:

Pre-work: (Days before the Day of Service)

#1. Paint and prep basketball court

#2. Clean and prime outdoor play area.

#3. Remove all basketball hoops

#4. Remove all swings

Day of the event:

#1. Finish painting basketball court.

#2. Build and install new basketball hoops.

#3. Clean swing area and install new swings

#4. Gardening- Clean area, plant flowers and small trees.

#5. Organize area for Book giveaway.

#6. Distribute backpacks and books.

Logistics:

• Bus will depart at 9:00am
• Breakfast and Lunch will be provided.
• Upon arrival you will select a project.
• Bus departs to hotel at 3pm

Gloves, masks, and other items will be provided.

#2 Fundación Fortaleza de Corazón in Loiza and Fajardo

Join AFT by organizing a toilet treat donation drive in your organization to help men and women. These items will be distributed at two locations in Loiza and Fajardo. Fundación Fortaleza de Corazón serves sicks patients battling terminal illnesses.