Front Cover Feature Vernon R . Matthews , Jr . Aldermen , Servant Leader Waterbury , Connecticut Summer 2023
Nancy Echevarria Business CEO
Mentoring the Future Leader of America
Vernon Matthews has made headlines for his relentless support of minority women in politics and governmental roles by serving as a mentor to so many and volunteering as a board member of several organizations that promote civic engagement and opportunities for minority women .
I ’ ve worked with several young men and women that I mentored for years but I must say that two really stick out . They both have overcome several challenges and obstacles but I would encourage them not to give up and continue on their journey .
I am pleased to say one is now a Dr and the other is a very successful businesswoman with several businesses . Dr . M . D . Finkley of the Micheal Finkley Show nationally syndicated talk show , and my personal booking agent Ms . Nancy Echevarria owner of several businesses as well as a few Brand / Trademarks . It ’ s like seeing children grow up and make it on their own . Like all my other mentees they keep in constant contact with me letting me know what they are doing and what they ’ re thinking about doing in future .
One last thing about my mentees not only that I happy for Nancy working as my booking agent . I ’ m super excited about her opening up another clothing store in Connecticut and her overcoming her naysayers now owning several different businesses . As for Dr . Finkley being apart of this years Stellar Awards , I am elated for his dedication and commitment to giving back .
New Health Care Facility for the Community
I took great pride is spearheading the project to purchase St . Lucy Church and Rectory to be used as a community-based health center . Expanding health services to the North End of Waterbury is a necessity . The center will provide people of all ages clinical services in behavior , mental , medical and dental care during evening hours and on Saturdays , when other city-based health clinics are closed .
The ultimate goal is for the health center to operate seven days a week . It ’ s been something I ’ ve been talking and preaching about that was needed . We finally found a spot that would be conducive to the area and to actually be something that works well within the community .
Program Success 18 Summer 2023