MEET OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FOUNDER/PRESIDENT
Jessica M. Colón
Jessica’s deep connection to nature, commitment to education, and passion for inclusivity drive her advocacy for learning and environmental stewardship. As an educator and nonprofit leader, she aspires to leave a lasting, positive impact by nurturing curiosity and meaningful connections with the natural world.
She has served as an Educator at The New York Botanical Garden’s Edible Academy, sharing her love for nature with students. Her diverse experience spans roles as a Museum Educator at the Westchester and Bronx Children’s Museum, Historic Hudson Valley, Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and Morris Jumel Mansion Museum
Now, as the founder and President of For the People and Kids, Inc., Jessica dedicates herself full-time to bilingual education and community work. Additionally, she holds key roles as the Executive Director at the Mount Kisco Arts Council and the Community Organizer for Access Nature Project and Mt Kisco’s Farmers Market and member of the Mt Kisco Historical Society. Her goal is to inspire collaboration among community members, nonprofits, and local partners, fostering community growth.
Vice PRESIDENT
Anthony M. Lopez
Anthony brings a unique blend of professional expertise and a deep passion for the arts to our nonprofit board. As the Vice President of Sales at Media Services, he offers a wealth of leadership and experience.
A native New Yorker, Anthony’s upbringing in the diverse city of New York has cultivated his profound appreciation for culture and creativity. He’s not just a businessman; he’s an artist and a lifelong cinephile, with a love for the arts and film that has driven his career.
Anthony’s journey into the entertainment industry began in 2007 when he joined Media Services’ Showbiz Software division. Here, he managed retail stores in New York and Los Angeles, as well as online sales operations, gaining invaluable insights into industry intricacies. In 2013, he transitioned to Media Services’ payroll sales team, aligning his career with his passion for entertainment. Working with a variety of content creators, Anthony provides top-tier production payroll services, showcasing his dedication to excellence.
Anthony’s journey from a New York upbringing to his current role as Vice President of Sales at Media Services, coupled with his passion for the arts and film, makes him an exceptional board member. His expertise and dedication enhance our organization’s mission to foster a thriving creative community.
Treasurer
Joseph Roman
Joe is a valuable member of our Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to our nonprofit. He currently serves as the Executive Director at Judicial Title Insurance, highlighting his leadership and management skills. However, Joe’s journey is marked by a profound commitment to education and community.
Following his graduation with honors (Cum laude) from Harvard University and before taking on his executive position, Joe devoted more than a decade to the field of education as an NYC History Teacher. During this time, he left a lasting, positive impact on the lives of numerous students.
Moreover, as the former President of Co-op City Little League, Joe not only contributed to the very league he had once been a part of as a child but also exemplified his dedication to instigating constructive change within his community.
In his role as Treasurer within our organization, Joe brings his financial expertise, strong work ethic, and deep passion for making a difference to our board. Since day one, he has been a staunch supporter of our cause.
Joe Roman’s unwavering dedication to our organization’s mission, along with his expertise and passion, drives us forward. We are fortunate to have him on our team.
COUNSEL
Rosalyn Maldonado, Esq.
With over two decades of experience, including a decade as Deputy General Counsel at Red Apple Group, Inc., overseeing various subsidiaries, including Gristede’s Supermarkets, Ms. Maldonado brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as a board member of a non-profit education organization.
Following her successful tenure at Red Apple, she further honed her skills during eight years at a boutique litigation defense firm, handling cases in both federal and state courts. Her extensive background in transactions and negotiations provides her with a unique perspective in addressing legal matters, making her exceptionally effective at assessing and evaluating cases.
Now, as a member of the board, Ms. Maldonado leverages her vast experience and strategic partnerships to contribute to the organization’s mission, offering her insights into legal solutions, maximizing agreements, and providing expert guidance in matters of general corporate governance.
SECRETARY
Anne Mastrogiacomo
Anne Mastrogiacomo brings a decade of experience in agriculture, farm education, and community engagement to her role as Board Secretary and Project Manager. Beginning her journey as a seasonal farmer, she developed a deep connection to the land, plants, and pollinators. Over the years, she has taken on key leadership roles, including Farm Manager, Market Manager, and Director of Agriculture, refining her expertise in program and project management, crop planning, and educational outreach.
In her role as Project Manager, Anne takes on vital responsibilities, including developing our newsletters to keep the community informed and engaged, as well as assisting with grant-seeking efforts to help sustain and expand our programs.
With her dedication to sustainability, education, and community-building, Anne plays an integral role in ensuring our mission continues to grow and flourish.
