Jasarah Burgos was born on May 19, 1989, in Guayama, Puerto Rico, and is a passionate activist for Family and Community Engagement. Working closely with families and communities, her goal is to bridge gaps in services and empower individuals to reach their full potential. In 2017, she faced the devastating loss of her home due to Hurricane Maria, which led her to relocate to Springfield. Little did she know that this move would prove to be the pivotal moment that aligned her with her purpose, enabling her to support and empower the Latino community in advocating for systemic changes. 

 

She credits her commitment to creating a positive change in the community to her two boys, Reynaldo and Sebastian. As a mother, she is deeply invested in ensuring that every child grows up in a city that is strong, vibrant, and full of opportunities. She wants to create spaces for her children to experience inclusivity where their voices are heard and respected, and empathy is fostered among all individuals. She envisions a future where all children can thrive, contributing to a society that values equity, compassion, and endless possibilities. 

 

For her, relocating to Springfield proved to be a transformative experience. The universe, it seemed, had guided her to precisely where she needed to be. The challenges she faced in Puerto Rico served as a catalyst, propelling her forward on a path of empowerment and advocacy. In her role as a Family and Community Engagement activist, she works tirelessly to support families and individuals in navigating the complexities of accessing essential services and opportunities. Through workshops, support groups, and community initiatives, she strives to create inclusive spaces where voices are heard and diverse perspectives are embraced.

 

In essence, her journey from Puerto Rico to Springfield has been one of resilience, growth, and empowerment. It is her unwavering belief that every individual deserves an equal chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

 

Because of this and so much more, we proudly present this year’s recognition as Madrina to Jasarah Burgos.