SAN JUAN, PR - The integrated services center for families, Vimenti, received former basketball player José Juan Barea at its two facilities in San Juan to meet and talk with the students. This visit makes the collaboration agreement between the Los Mets de Guaynabo basketball team and Vimenti official, making Vimenti an ally during their basketball season.
“We are very grateful to J.J. Barea for the visit and for sharing his experiences and advice on striving to achieve goals. We are committed to continuing to provide our students with these learning opportunities and exposing them to people like Barea, who represent our country with great pride,” said Bárbara Rivera Batista, executive director of Vimenti.
During his visit, J.J. Barea, manager of the Mets, participated in a story reading session with second-grade students, Q&A with elementary and middle school students, and observing a 3x3 basketball clinic led by the teacher of physical education from Vimenti and renowned Ángel “Rano” Martínez. When addressing the students, Barea highlighted the importance of discipline and perseverance in achieving goals and dreams.
“Never give up, follow your dreams, study, and work hard. Hard work is what distinguishes us Puerto Ricans so much,” said Barea enthusiastically. “Thank you to all the parents, all the children, and everyone who contributes to this program to make this possible for this school; it is very impressive.”
The integrated family services center Vimenti recently celebrated its fifth anniversary by reporting that they achieved an 11% reduction in families living below the poverty level compared to before receiving Vimenti’s services. Additionally, 64% of Vimenti School families reported a higher monthly income, and 22% reported a monthly income increase of over $1,000.
