2018 HOLIDAY RAFFLE FUNDRAISER

We wanted to first express our gratitude to each and everyone of you who have generously given of their time, commitment to keeping our organization going for the past ten years and for the monetary investment in our mission.   Without the support from our board, friends and family this organization can not continue its great work.  Thank you!

Now, we are happy to announce our FOUR winners:

1st prize - TV -- Ticket #1860 Steph P. sold by Jessica T.

2nd prize - IPad -- Ticket #1230 Nathan R. sold by Jeanette A.

3rd prize - $100 --Ticket #3285 Rosa G. sold by Jennifer B.

SURPRISE 4th prize -- Ticket #1600 KEURIG coffee maker --Isabelle G. sold by Fanny M.

PRIZE WINNER #1 - 50 inch TV
Stephanie P.

PRIZE WINNER #2 - IPad
Nathan R. 

PRIZE WINNER #3 - $100 cash
Rosa G.

SURPRSIE WINNER #4 - Keurig Coffee Maker
Isabelle G,

We raised a total of $1165 including donations that came in after the raffle.  

Congratulations to our winners 

and 

thank you to our generous donations from 

the Agrinsoni, the Torres, Mera-Carroll and Mayers families. 

2018 End of the Year Fundraisers

N.Y.C.F.C. vs. New England

We made it out on a school night, Wednesday, September 5th, to support our favorite team.  Our boys didn't win but we were able to raised $100.  Thank you to our usual soccer supporters.

New York Yankees Vs. Orioles 

Supporting our home team Yankees is what we do and we raised funds while doing it.  We gathered a group of 29 and raised $145 at our game fundraiser on Sunday, September 23rd.

Thank you to our true blue Yankee fans, who are also S.M.B.S. fans, for helping us enjoy a great game.

FIRST Panda Express Fundraiser 

On the 11th of October, we held our very first fundraiser at Panda Express on Woodhaven Blvd. in Queens.  It was a rainy day and we almost canceled but we did it!  With the love and support of our supporters we raised $33.96 from sales that evening. 

Special thanks to our youngest organizer, Nicolas Torres, for the idea and help in executing this event.  This was his first for S.M.B.S. Inc.  As always thank you to our board members and friends for making it out despite the weather.

Our last N.Y.C.F.C. Fundraiser for 2018

They didn't make it to the playoffs but N.Y.C.F.C. showed their fans they were going to try when they played Atlanta on Sunday, Nov. 4th.  Thank you N.Y.C.F.C. for an amazing year and helping us raise another $120 to end the year! 

PLEASE SEE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR AMAZING PHOTOS TAKEN ON THESE DATES!!!

Thanks again for your ongoing support.

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2018 ANNUAL HOLIDAY RAFFLE

Tickets will continue to be sold up to December 2018.  Get your lucky tickets before the drawing date, Friday, December 14th.   Drawing will be live streamed via Facebook so please LIKE and follow us on our page at:

https://www.facebook.com/The-Stephanie-Marie-Burgos-Scholarship-Inc

If you were unable to attend any of the above events but would like to contribute, you can still send your tax deductible gift directly to our organization via check or money order to:

The Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship, Inc. 

P.O. Box 370153

Brooklyn, New York 11237

Any questions about events or about our organization?

 Please feel free to contact us via email at:

SMBS2010@aol.com

Annual Board Meeting 2018

On Monday, September 10 our board met at Union Pizza Works in Bushwick Brooklyn.  Present were Diana Diaz-Torres (Executive Director), Jeanette Aquino (secretary), Alexandria Agrinsoni (treasurer 2014-18), Fanny Mera, Sue Roye and Jessica Thomas with five signed proxies from Evelyn Mosquea, Christine Rivas, Areta Gjicali, Charmaine Mayers and Kenny Lozano.  It was a busy night of discussion about the future of our organization, event planning and review of our mission, and most importantly a time to bond with our S.M.B.S. Inc. family. 

Jeanette Aquino is committed to serving the rest of her time, two more years, and Alexandria Agrinsoni stepped down as treasurer after four years passing on the baton to Sue Roye.  The officers commit to a four year commitment.  Separate from the general board, the secretary and treasurer meet more frequently throughout the year to assist the executive director, Diana Diaz-Torres, in the facilitation of daily functioning of the organization.  They help not only with their role responsibilities but provide the support needed to keep the flow of planned activities by the board throughout the year.

Thank you to these beautiful ladies and to all of our board members, who work from the heart.  None are paid and give freely of their time to this organization.

From left to right; Alexandria Agrinsoni, Jessica Thomas, Sue Roye,
Diana Diaz-Torres, Jeanette Aquino Reveron and Fanny Mera.

2018 Scholar Updates

Lewinski Lopez - Scholar #10 (2017)

Last semester I wrote about how much of a big help this scholarship was when it came time to buy books for class. This semester, with an increase in tuition I can once again count on this scholarship to help me pay for book expenses.

My first year was eventful because of my involvement with the theatre club as well as working part time and keeping up with classwork but if there is one thing I learned not to stress about, it was where to get the best deals when it came to book buying.

I have spoken with upperclassmen who have given me helpful tips on money management and even joined a club that helps with handling personal finances. I am grateful for this scholarship because I knew I would need it for books and that need to find the best bargains to cover all book expenses led me to discover a club that’s really helped me figure out my personal finances as well as make new friends.

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Jennifer Van - Scholar #9 (2016)

This year has been full of new opportunities and experiences. In my Spring 2018 semester, I took my first Women and Gender Studies course and was captivated by what the course offered. I learned about how race and gender play integral roles in our society and dictate how our lives play out. Consequently, I took 2 additional courses in Women and Gender Studies in the Summer 2018 semester to fill the requirements for a minor. I think these courses add a more holistic view to the health sciences and will help me further my medical career in the future.

Academics aside, I am a junior writer for HerCampus at SBU and post articles every 2 weeks during the semester. Article topics range drastically depending on what’s on my mind. It serves as a writing outlet for me. I also worked as a lab assistant in the spring and was able to catch a glimpse of how research is conducted in the science field. Even though I was just responsible for maintaining the lab’s drosophila stock, it was enlightening to be in that kind of environment.

Furthermore, I was a part of Alternative Spring Break Outreach (ASBO) in the Spring and we took a trip to Pinellas County, Florida to help ameliorate houses in partnership with Habitats for Humanity. It was great to meet so many people that share the same interest in volunteering and meet those who dedicate their time building houses for less fortunate families.

This summer, I continued my work at the airport greeting international students. It’s always interesting to meet new people from different cultures. I also shadowed/scribed for an emergency care doctor for a couple of weeks. I was able to learn a lot from being in a hospital and being in contact with such a variety of patients. Furthermore, it was empowering to follow around a female doctor. It motivates me to work harder towards my goals and gives me insight into my possible future.

I would not be able to take advantage of these opportunities without the help of S.M.B.S Inc. I am able to focus on academics and my extracurriculars because they help to diminish the financial worry of attending college. Again, a big thank you to S.M.B.S. Inc. for making my college experience the most engaging it could be.

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Peer Mentoring Program Update 2018

Over the year, our board members, including former alum scholars, who serve in our board, provide mentoring support to our scholars.  We are happy to report that even with our scholars' and mentors' super busy schedules we try to squeeze a friendly text or email and happily get responses.  We know that an unexpected care package sent to our scholars or a planned event is always a positive experience for them to meet, keep in touch with each other and stay connected with the organization.

Once scholars graduate, they are invited to serve on our board.  Some look at it as a give back while others simply just enjoy giving of themselves as noted throughout their academic careers. 

Thank you for supporting our organization's efforts to not only provide financial support to our scholars yearly but the ability to continue to develop a program like this in order to support our scholars throughout their academic career.  As noted a portion of your donations goes towards scholars' participation in these reunions and events.

Meeting between Jennifer Van Scholar #9 (2016) and
Mentor/Board member, Fanny Mera Summer 2018.

Please join us in our future events and/or make a direct tax deductible donation to:

The Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship, Inc. 

P.O. Box 370153

Brooklyn, New York 11237

Knockerball Fundraiser/ More 2018 Fundraisers

Our FIRST Knockerball Fundraiser 2018

Everyone was screaming for FUN!!!
On August 16th we did just that!!! 

Our very first outdoor park knockerball fundraiser was held at Cooper Park in Williamsburg Brooklyn, New York, on Thursday, August 16th from 3pm until 7pm.  With the help of friends and family we successfully raised $310 for our organization.

Thank you to everyone who came out and had loads of fun with us.
Special thank you to our vendor KnockerBallNYC for helping make it such a fun filled event!
(For private party booking please contact Jorge at 718-930-9973)

Pictures posted on our facebook page.

PLEASE LOOK OUT FOR UPCOMING EVENTS
INCLUDING:

Wednesday, September 5, 2018  7-10pm
NYCFC vs New England at Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
Tickets only $25
for great seats, great company and great fundraising!

Sunday, September 23, 2018 1pm
Yankees vs Orioles at Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
Tickets only $40
for Section 305, New Era hat, beverage and hot dog

Thursday, October 11, 2018   4pm-11pm
Panda Express Fundraising Event
90-04 Metropolitan Avenue, Forest Hills, New York 11375

NEAREST PANDA EXPRESS1.2Mi

NOSTRAND & FLATBUSH

2166 Nostrand Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11210

718-859-0368

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

*Pickup time is estimated and may change based on items ordered or other circumstances beyond our control. Actual pickup time will be determined upon completing order.

Bring you flyer & 20% of your bill will be donated to our organization.

Friday, December 14, 2018  4pm (approx.)
Holiday Raffle Drawing
$1 ticket - 6 tickets for $5
WIN PRIZES
Large Flat Screen TV, Apple Ipad & $100 Gift Card

PLEASE SAVE THE DATES.

If you are unable to attend any of our fundraising events, 

your tax deductible gift (Money Order or Check)

 can be sent to:

The Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship, Inc. 

P.O. Box 370153

Brooklyn, New York 11237

Scholar High School Speeches

A couple of our scholars wanted to share their valedictorian speeches with us.  Please take a minute to read and admire these beautiful young ladies, who continue represent our organization with great pride and gratitude.  We dedicate these speeches to all recent graduates and to all who continue to reach for those stars.


Shakira DelaCruz - Scholar #8
Gateway H.S. of Environmental & Research Technology at the Stevenson Campus Graduation 2015

Faria Islam - Scholar #11

The Young Women's Leadership School of Queens High School Graduation 2018

Good Afternoon, administration, staff, family, friends, and class of 2018. I would like to begin by expressing my appreciation to the administration for providing me with this opportunity to feel nauseous and petrified, but also full of pride to represent our incredible class. I am humbled by this opportunity.

Having a voice means being able to speak our truth, our needs and our wants. As a woman of color, like many of you, I have faced cultural, religious and social expectations that discouraged me from using my voice. Four years ago, I came to our school with a restricted voice because of fear of being silenced and mocked by others. However, TYWLS has empowered me to leverage my power of speech. It became a safe place to think critically and engage in intimate, thoughtful seminars, where many of our peers and teachers supported us and wanted to hear what we had to say.

In April, I was assigned to present a writing piece and lead a general discussion at my mentorship program called Minds Matter. I choose an article about the #MeToo Movement and asked my peers: “Why do you think a lot of women are speaking out about demeaning male behavior?”. I was conflicted when one of my peers said, “Some women make up the stories and lie.” I was disturbed because the comment seemed to be wrapped up in the assumption that the harder we strive, and the louder our voices are, is equated with being dishonest and disgraceful. There is a stigma that women should be submissive and that victims are often to blame. I share this story today to help you remember the values instilled within you at TYWLS on agency of voice. TYWLS has prepared me to present this sensitive issue and speak the truth to power. It has allowed us to develop our own critical thinking skills and examine the interconnected world.

Since intolerance and suppression of dissenting voices is on the rise, your voice is most important today to create a change. There are more than 130 million girls between the age of 6 and 17 are out of school globally. These girls do not even have a chance to speak on daily basis because their families and communities do not even care about their presence. Class of 2018, you are all privileged to have been given a chance to express your opinion and contribute to the TYWLS community. I urge you all to continue to use the voice that has been molded within every single one of you for years and inspire others to use theirs in college. Do not let the opinions of others define what you believe and overpower your inner voice. Remember expressing your values in an appropriate way weakens institutions that have a history of inequality by paving a different direction. This year, our class hosted the first TYWLS of Queens voting rally, successfully participated in multiple national school walkouts against gun violence, established Dreamers Alliance with the leadership of Mr. Kane, fellow graduates and Angely, and much more. When you say what you stand for, you are more likely to take actions to extract the result you are looking for.

The achievements of this class would not have been possible without the support of our parents and teachers. Thank you. Over the years, Mrs. Grech taught us to try understand information rather than memorize it. I thank Mr. Otto who made us laugh with but never at, each other. I also thank Ms. Marcus for inspiring me to continue to improve myself. Although all the knowledge we received is valuable, the most important lesson we have learned is that our voices are powerful to create a change. We, the class of 2018, thank every single one of you for your hard work and investment in our education. Finally, to my parents, thank you so much for everything you have done. I hope I made you proud.

Graduating class, this is your time to shine. But let me be clear: the definition of commencement is a new beginning. Although this is the time of celebration, understand that you have completed what you were obligated to, use this opportunity to celebrate the hard work that is ahead for us.You will face multiple barriers that contradict your values in college and there will times where you wish to move away and not address it. Once, you find your passion and your voice in anything you do in the future, have the courage to pursue it. Then you will begin to appreciate life and get on with your journey.
To the class of 2018, it has been an honor to walk by your side. 

Congratulations and best of luck!

2018 Scholar Announcement

Scholar #11 - 2018 is

 Faria Islam 

On Wednesday, June 20th, we were honored to welcome our 11th scholar to our Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship Inc. family.  After dinner at Sagar Chinese in Kew Gardens-Queen, with Scholar #9, Jennifer Van, as a witness and Diana Diaz Torres, Executive Board presenting, our new 2018 scholarship recipient was recognized for her achievements despite adversities in her life.  She will be entering Columbia University in the fall 2018.  Let us all celebrate her today!

It is always a very hard process to select the best candidate as we receive so many qualifying students but we wish all our applicants a happy and successful future.

Again, Congratulations to Faria!!!! 

2018 Fundraiser Updates

2018 Yankee Candle Sale

            Our pre-Mother’s Day Yankee Candle fundraising will continue to run into June 11, 2018 so continue to make your purchases.  Up to date we have received $39.60 from the Yankee Candle company.  We will keep you posted on our progress.  All orders are taken online and delivered directly to your home, 20% of your purchase goes to our organization. SMBS Inc. appreciates your support. 

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Use this link: 
https://www.yankeecandlefundraising.com/home.htm
& Use our group number #990091588

Face Book Birthday Donations

            If you have Facebook, you have probably noticed friends and family selecting a charitable organization to receive donations made in your name for your birthday.   Someone selected our organization and we recently received a check for $40 from such contributions.   Whether you are selecting our organization to receive donations or simply donating to friends for organizations like ours, thank you.

Amazon Smile

            As of February 2018, we were officially set up to receive .5% percentage of your Amazon purchases without you doing anything but enter our organization as your charitable organization of choice when you sign into your Amazon account using the link below: 

https://smile.amazon.com/ch/27-2965950

Chilis Fundraiser

            Unfortunately, the weather was not cooperative with us on Wednesday, March 7^th.   In order to protect our supporters, we made the executive decision to postpone the event until further notice. We do want to thank those who were unable to attend but still made their donations.  A total of $75 was received.  We apologize for the postponement but we will keep you posted on a new date for those who look forward to our annual event. 

Panera Fundraiser

            Our very first Panera fundraiser event was held at the Glendale Panera on Woodhaven Blvd. on Thursday, April 5^th.   Our final count was received this past week and out of 19 transactions we raised $68.37 for the evening.  Thank you Panera for collaborating with us and thank you to all the amazing supporters who came out.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

            If you were unable to attend any of these events or any future events, you can always donate directly to our organization by sending your tax deductible contribution by check or money order to:

The Stephanie Marie Burgos Scholarship, Inc.

P.O. BOX 370153

Brooklyn, New York 11237