In 1996, I became a member of First Baptist Church of Fort Lauderdale and served in their Christmas pageant for two years. Later, I became a volunteer in their Security team and eventually became the Lead security Agent for the Pastor and his family. Additionally, I have been a volunteer at the Make-A-Wish foundation since around 2004, specifically working with a child named Austin Farmer whom I still keep in touch with. I continue to volunteer at Make-A-Wish and have been doing so for many years.
For the past five years, I have also been volunteering at the Broward County Humane Society. Along with two friends, I started a Security group which has now grown to a five-man unit. During this time, I have taken on the responsibility of interacting with court-ordered volunteers to guide them towards a brighter future through open conversation and mentoring.
I have been a member of The Hundred Club since 2017, an organization that assists family members of fallen firefighters and law enforcement officers. Currently, I am a weekly attendee at Calvary Chapel church where I serve as a Greeter at the door entrance.
Before my injuries, I used to be a good neighbor by helping out with tasks such as cutting lawns and cleaning pools for my neighbors. I find it rewarding to see new neighbors moving in and helping them out when they haven't had time to tend to these tasks.
One of my greatest accomplishments in life is my son Jeffrey. I raised him to be polite and a gentleman, always providing for him and being a full-time dad even during my time at the sheriff's office. Jeffrey received scholarships to college, got married, and later became a father of three wonderful children. He now serves as a pastor, bringing me immense joy and pride.
Perhaps the most fulfilling part of my life came when I decided to start serving our Creator, God, bringing me a sense of comfort, inner peace, and deep joy.