They actually did it and the building is officially getting renamed for JJ which still feels like a total dream honestly. I was looking through the list of 117 people who put their name down and just realized how much this is going to mean to his family when they …
March 24, 2017
Final supporters
In memory of one of Newark's true heros, let's honor his name by changing the name of the JFK recreational and fitness center to the Hector Espada Jr. Recreational and Fitness Center. He was a voice of the youth and what better way to continue the legacy by placing his name on the recreational center in which gave his heart and soul to. Please sign the petition so we can ask the Honorable Ras J. Baraka to help continue JJ's legacy.
Updates
February 21, 2017
I spent the entire morning scrolling through the comments here and it is just overwhelming to see how many people remember that specific spark JJ brought to the center. I am working on getting a formal meeting request in front of the Mayor because his legacy really deserves this permanent recognition and frankly it needs to start happening now.
February 21, 2017
I keep staring at the screen and honestly it feels like the whole city is finally backing this in a way I never expected. It is just so overwhelming to see so many people who remember JJ and want to keep his spirit alive at the center even though the paperwork is going to be a total headache later.
Reached 100 supporters
February 21, 2017
40 Comments
I never had the pleasure of meeting this young man. I did have the pleasure of hearing about his dedication to the youth of Newark. I heard of the hundreds of people who attended his service. I can't think of a better reason to dedicate the Center to him.
I as Hector's mother am in full agreement with this petition to honor his memory. My son was unselfish with his love and concern for the children of the City of Newark. He was a mentor, brother, and father figure to many. He was and is a hero to the lives he touched.
A hige pillar for our youth. JFK did nothing for Newark, However Hector did. RIH
You couldn't go to the K without seeing JJ every day. Teaching. Coaching, and giving life lessons to the youth of Newark. I believe he earned this. Its good for the city.
JJ was one of my three brothers and with all the good he has done with the Next Level kids nothing would make me happier then to see my brothers mark on newark.
Next Level for Life
Please change the name in honor
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They actually did it and the building is officially getting renamed for JJ which still feels like a total dream honestly. I was looking through the list of 117 people who put their name down and just realized how much this is going to mean to his family when they …
March 24, 2017
Final supporters
In memory of one of Newark's true heros, let's honor his name by changing the name of the JFK recreational and fitness center to the Hector Espada Jr. Recreational and Fitness Center. He was a voice of the youth and what better way to continue the legacy by placing his name on the recreational center in which gave his heart and soul to. Please sign the petition so we can ask the Honorable Ras J. Baraka to help continue JJ's legacy.
Updates
February 21, 2017
I spent the entire morning scrolling through the comments here and it is just overwhelming to see how many people remember that specific spark JJ brought to the center. I am working on getting a formal meeting request in front of the Mayor because his legacy really deserves this permanent recognition and frankly it needs to start happening now.
February 21, 2017
I keep staring at the screen and honestly it feels like the whole city is finally backing this in a way I never expected. It is just so overwhelming to see so many people who remember JJ and want to keep his spirit alive at the center even though the paperwork is going to be a total headache later.
Reached 100 supporters
February 21, 2017
40 Comments
JJ was a true community leader who cared about his city and the Youth. He arrived each and everyday instilling self esteem self worth love for one another education and a never give up attitude into the children he taught cherished mentored and nourished. This is an honor he truly deserves. He gave of himself without asking anything in return never seeking fame or fortune it was always about the youth. He gave so much to the city now it's time the city give back to his legacy.
I never had the pleasure of meeting this young man. I did have the pleasure of hearing about his dedication to the youth of Newark. I heard of the hundreds of people who attended his service. I can't think of a better reason to dedicate the Center to him.
I as Hector's mother am in full agreement with this petition to honor his memory. My son was unselfish with his love and concern for the children of the City of Newark. He was a mentor, brother, and father figure to many. He was and is a hero to the lives he touched.
A hige pillar for our youth. JFK did nothing for Newark, However Hector did. RIH
You couldn't go to the K without seeing JJ every day. Teaching. Coaching, and giving life lessons to the youth of Newark. I believe he earned this. Its good for the city.
JJ was one of my three brothers and with all the good he has done with the Next Level kids nothing would make me happier then to see my brothers mark on newark.
Next Level for Life
Please change the name in honor
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JJ was a true community leader who cared about his city and the Youth. He arrived each and everyday instilling self esteem self worth love for one another education and a never give up attitude into the children he taught cherished mentored and nourished. This is an honor he truly deserves. He gave of himself without asking anything in return never seeking fame or fortune it was always about the youth. He gave so much to the city now it's time the city give back to his legacy.