Manny Sostre is our featured alumnus of the month! Manny began his journey at Olivet at our Oakbrook site as a Club Kid. Manny is part of the exclusive group of Club Kids who were the first to attend Oakbrook’s new facility in 1992. The Club was his opportunity to stay off the street, have a warm meal, and “be around good people… good adults.” Manny recalled that he was not a tough guy, but he couldn’t listen for long or stay in school, which is why the Club meant even more to him.
Growing up as a youth in Reading, Manny says that he has multiple favorite memories of Olivet, and that it is hard to pinpoint just one. Manny’s mother did not have a vehicle when he was growing up, making the field trips provided by Olivet some of his most fond memories. It was his only chance to get out of the house and gain new experiences that the club afforded him.
During his early teen years, Manny remembered being recruited to join the club as a Youth Development Professional (YDP) by his Director at PAL, Greg Clarke. Manny pays homage to the Directors and leaders who inspired him as a young man and accepted this role to pay it forward. He remembers Kevin Devara, Chris Ninfo, Berry Palmer, and so many others who spoke directly into his life and encouraged him to do and be more. In short, Manny stated that his “why” for the Club is “The people that did it for me. All the people that worked here.” Manny remembered that Mr. Palmer took the time to coach him and encourage him to get his GED. This is what helped him officially become eligible to work with the club as a Director.
“I’m blessed to be around good people who never gave up on me.” – Manny Sostre
Manny worked with the Olivet Boys & Girls Club for 18 years and continues to assist with alumni event organization and community collaboration. Manny is the Director who hired and mentored Jordan Rodriguez, Director of Programs, as a YDP to serve as the “gym coordinator” 15 years ago. Jordan continues to serve with the Olivet Boys & Girls Club, along with a series of other club kids who hold positions as YDP’s and Directors across all 6 of our club locations. When Manny enters a club and sees one of his kids, it’s a reminder that all the hard days, tough conversations, and intentional moments were worth it.
Manny’s story is a constant reminder that the Olivet Boys & Girls Club lifts it’s people, and that is why our mission is so important. It’s not just our club kids, our club staff, and our club families; it’s our community. Olivet is a pillar in this community, and stories like this are a wonderful reminder.
Interview hosted by: J. Medina, Future Ready Graduate (Cohort 1)
Article written by: Brandy Del Gallego