Bronx, NY – July 18, 2024 – The Jerome Avenue Revitalization Collaborative (JARC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Sideeq Waziri and Sara Kibboua through the AmeriCorps VISTA program. The two will serve as Business Engagement VISTA and Community Engagement VISTA, respectively, contributing their diverse backgrounds and perspectives to foster economic growth and community empowerment in the West Bronx.

Waziri joins the JARC as the Business Engagement VISTA, leveraging his extensive expertise in mathematics, data science, and entrepreneurship to support local small businesses. Waziri holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics from Rutgers University, where he also pursued a minor in Social Justice. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science at Eastern University, Waziri brings a passion for data-driven insights and storytelling to his role. 

“[I am] passionate about supporting the growth and success of entrepreneurs,” Waziri said. “I am dedicated to providing data-driven support, targeted marketing, and access to resources and services that empower small business owners in the Bronx to achieve their goals and drive economic growth in the community.”

Kibboua joins the JARC as the Community Engagement VISTA, bringing over five years of experience as a humanitarian worker and interpreter. Her dedication to community service is evident through her roles as an Operational Site Leader for the Humanitarian Emergency Respite and Relief Center (HERRC) and a Community Associate for the Department of Homeless Services (DHS). Her volunteer work with the Red Cross, both internationally and domestically as a Disaster Action Team (DAT) Associate, reflects her commitment to making a positive impact globally. In her spare time, Kibboua says she enjoys reading, cooking Mediterranean cuisine, and running near the beach.

“We are thrilled to add both Sara and Sideeq to our team,” said Justin Weiss, the AmeriCorps VISTA Leader at Children’s Aid, which oversees the JARC VISTA program. “They are both immensely talented and dedicated to the ideals of social justice and economic opportunity. I can’t wait to see what they accomplish in their roles.”

The addition of Waziri and Kibboua to the JARC team underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering economic development and community resilience in the Bronx. Their unique backgrounds and dedication to service will undoubtedly strengthen the JARC’s efforts to empower local businesses and residents.

For more information about JARC and its initiatives, please visit jarcbx.com.

Paul Philps (Community Board 4) and Marco Castro talk about the challenges in the Jerome Avenue Corridor and JARC’s role in creating careers in the Bronx.

JARC steering committee members Pierina Sanchez and Community Board 4 Chair Paul Philps announce the JARC’s official launch on OPEN BX with Dr. Bob Lee.