COMMUNITY ENVOLVEMENT: Jose Oliveras is a triathlete and fundraiser for the New York Families for Autistic Children (NYFAC). The mission of NYFAC is “to ensure quality services to parents, siblings and family members of those individuals affected by autism, mental retardation and any developmental disability.” Oliveras believes that, “for every little problem to the world, there’s someone to help and to alleviate some of the suffering.” Oliveras raises funds through a 1.2 mile swim, followed by a 56 mile bike and half a marathon run.
PERSONAL: Currently a full time graduate student, he is studying to become an assistant principle at St. John’s University. He got a degree in education and science in 2010. He’s a retired Marine and married to a school teacher.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE: So far it is “getting people to donate and informing people what autism is.” He said that an average person spends a small fortune on going out to eat, but people will think twice about donating $10 for a good cause. “You’re planting a seed and you’re sowing it. It might not seem like much but when a lot of people donate five, ten dollars, it becomes a good sum of money and can support a family with autistic children,” said Oliveras. So far, he has raised $1,000 and his goal is $5,000.
FAVORITE MEMORY: “The kids sit down and talk to me and say hi. I see them smile, see them have a good time,” Oliveras says about his experience in working with autistic children. “In working with people suffering from autism, our worst day is their best day.”
INSPIRATION: Oliveras quoted St. John’s University’s Vincentian Mission – No one is too poor to give and no one is too rich to receive – as his inspiration for what he’s doing. “I really like the training and I also love the fact that I can somehow help a little bit for an outstanding cause,” he said. “That way, I become a part of a positive experience. I don’t have a lot to give but I’m going to give what I have.”
DREAMS: Oliveras was exposed to autism by the mother of an autistic child through his church. As she is a proactive volunteer for the cause, Oliveras was touched and became fully involved. Just the way he was moved by others, Oliveras wishes he can do the same. “I want to continue doing triathlon for autism. Along the way, I also hope I inspire others to do something positive. I need more people to carry the torch.” – Hein Aung
