What do you love about serving with The Emiliani Project?

The Emiliani Project has always been very near and dear to my heart for many reasons, but of all the reasons, what I really love about The Emiliani Project is its display of the human spirit and willingness to still help others in need.  The conception of The Emiliani Project was derived out of three military veterans experiences while serving their country overseas and seeing the severe displacement of children from the conflicts they participated.  Those experiences had a profound impact on their lives and ultimately led to the creation of The Emiliani Project.

The true spirit of The Emiliani Project shows that you don’t have to be a multi-million dollar philanthropist to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.  Simple acts of kindness go a long way in the lives of others.  The Emiliani Project shows that the human spirit to others has not been lost in this world and that everyone, regardless of their time, talent or treasure, can make a difference.  The Emiliani Project gives us an opportunity to leave the world a better place than how we found it.

An interesting fact about yourself?

I was born and raised in Orange, Ca.  I’m a military veteran after serving 12 years in the Navy.  I received a B.S. degree from The University of Maryland in Computer Science.  I am a co-founder to The Emiliani Project.  I was ordained a Catholic deacon for The Diocese of San Diego in June 2017.  I am the Pastoral Associate of St. Margaret Parish in Oceanside.  My wife, Rebecca and I, have been married for 15 years.  We live in Oceanside.  I have two children, Kaylee and Nathaniel.  Both are married.  I am a grandfather and absolutely love it.  I’m an avid cyclist.  When not at work or in Colombia, you will most likely find me on one of my four bikes.  Whenever I do cycling races or big group rides, I always wear Colombian cycling clothing in hopes to talk about The Emiliani Project.  I have a secret passion for cooking and in another life would be a chef.  Chocolate mint and/or Pistachio ice creams are tied for my favorites.  The Rocky movies are my favorite except for #5.  I’ve always had a deep desire to serve others from a very young age.