First Responder Fields
Career exploration introduces students to public service roles and the responsibility behind them.
Be A Part Of Mo's Biggest Save
A direct response to the opportunity gap
In the United States, more than one in five children are living in poverty. The effects of poverty on children can cause a wide range of challenges for both children and their families, including negative outcomes related to educational attainment and income earned.
The Mariano Rivera Save 653 Foundation confronts these inequalities head-on through targeted programs in underserved communities. Central to our mission is the Save 653 Mentorship Program, which bridges gaps in education by providing access to essential resources and training, as well as the opportunity for employment following successful program completion.
The Save 653 Mentorship Program includes life-skills workshops, one-on-one coaching, and career exploration opportunities in digital and print media, culinary arts, and first responder fields.
The Four Bases
Each base builds practical confidence and prepares students for the next step.
Personal Development
First Base
Personal presentation, character building, identity, etiquette, and goal-setting.
Technical Training
Second Base
Hands-on education and technical certifications that connect learning to employment pathways.
Career Readiness
Third Base
Budgeting, financial literacy, resume preparation, interview habits, and work readiness.
Career Launch
Home Plate
One-on-one mentorship, job performance coaching, internships, and local opportunity.
Questions About Save 653?
Tell us how you would like to connect with Save 653, and our team will help you take the next step.
Career Exploration In Action
Students learn through direct exposure to service, recognition, and professional environments.
Hands-On Discovery
Experiences outside the classroom help students connect lessons to real tools, teams, and career decisions.
Student Recognition
Milestones matter. Recognition reinforces confidence, commitment, and pride in completed work.
Program Leadership
Meet Carlos Perez
Program Director of the Mariano Rivera Foundation's Save 653 Mentorship Program.
Carlos Perez is the esteemed principal of Windsor School in Pompton Lakes, NJ, a distinguished institution catering to students with learning and behavioral challenges. With over 15 years of educational expertise, Carlos has collaborated with prominent districts including Jersey City Public Schools, Newark Public Schools, and Newark Charter Schools. He holds a Master's in Educational Leadership and another in Theology Urban Ministry, and is pursuing his Doctorate in Ministry from Gordon Conwell.
Beyond his administrative role, Carlos is a dynamic motivational speaker, captivating audiences nationally and internationally. His impactful speaking engagements have touched lives in juvenile centers, youth programs, camps, and professional NFL teams.
Before his distinguished career in education and mentorship in Newark, NJ, Carlos excelled on the football field as a three-year starter at the University of Florida. As a former member of the 2004-2005 NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles, Carlos brings lessons in teamwork, leadership, and life transition into his work as a mentor.
Education leadership
Mentorship
Career readiness
Connect With The Program Team
For more information about Save 653, mentorship, referrals, partnerships, or getting involved, choose the form that best fits your request.
Program Outcomes
Mentorship creates practical paths toward purpose, education, service, and work.Foster Care Professional
"As a teenager, I was influenced by people to make self-destructive choices. After understanding that a change needed to happen, I sought mentorship provided by MRF. My life quickly shifted due to mentors who believed in me and called the greatness out."
Chemist
"Before encountering the leadership of MRF I was lost, hurt by life, and unsure of my identity. With their help, I found direction, healing, and purpose. This foundation has been pivotal in my growth as a person, wife, friend, daughter, student, and professional."
Youth Pastor
"As a teenager, I had no sense of direction. The Mariano Rivera Foundation helped me discover my purpose. While being mentored, I learned disciplines that helped carry me through the highs and lows of my life."
Educator
"As a high-schooler I was sent to an alternative school with no hope of graduating. Upon enrolling into a MRF program, I found hope and purpose. Today I am paying it forward by becoming a certified teacher."
Entrepreneur
"Before being enrolled in a MRF program, I was a young man with no sense of direction. Through the program I learned to know my worth, make the most out of every moment, and live for what truly matters most in life."