BMAR raises $1,200 for Bronx teen to attend Georgetown program

Bronx, New York Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda asked The Bronx-Manhattan North Association of Realtors (BMNAR) to help a 10th grade Bronx student attend a Summer Program at Georgetown University. Alexandra Valle, currently a student at Mott Hall V in the Bronx, was selected as a Junior Statesman of America. To attend the prestigious summer program, Alexandra needed to raise $3,000 by June 13th to secure her seat. According to Richard Guarino, president of BMNAR's Board, "We want to help Alexandra because the summer program will teach her to cultivate democratic leadership skills, challenge her to think critically, advocate her own opinions, develop respect for opposing views and learn to rise above self-interest to promote the public good." At BMNAR's president's cocktail party on June 11th, Alexandra was $1,200 short of reaching her goal. By the end of the evening, the $1,200 was raised to send this talented and bright Bronx student to Georgetown. Eliezer Rodriguez, Esq., association executive officer, BMNAR, said, "Alexandra has her heart set at becoming an attorney and ultimately a judge. I am so proud of our members for supporting her dream." When Alexandra's mother, Carmen Valle, learned the needed money was raised she said, "I am so happy that my daughter will be going to Georgetown for the summer. I want to thank BMNAR for what they have done for my daughter. One must never give up on hope." The summer program at Georgetown will begin in mid-July. The mission of the Junior Statesman of America is to strengthen American democracy by educating and preparing high school students for life-long involvement and responsible leadership in a democratic society. According to assemblyman Sepulveda, "I want to thank BMNAR and Eliezer for responding to my call for action. We need to help our gifted students. We need to take a more active role to increase the probability that when our children graduate from the life of school and enter the school of life, they will be ready." A presentation of the check was made to Alexandra Valle on June 14th at the BMNAR office, located at 1867 Williamsbridge Rd. According to Rodriguez, he was so moved by Alexandra's story, that he is exploring the creation of a BMNAR Community Assistance Program to help others that seek a helping hand. The BMNAR members that donated to Alexandra's future want to send her a message - "Make us proud!" Eliezer Rodriguez is the association executive of BMAR, Bronx, N.Y.