Board Of Directors

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April Garcia - Co-Founder

April is a passionate advocate for building stronger futures through skilled trades. With a background in occupational therapy and years of experience organizing community fundraisers, she brings both heart and hands-on leadership to the foundation.

April works as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, helping individuals and families navigate life after injury, illness, or disability. 

After organizing a $50,000 grassroots fundraiser in memory of her brother-in-law Jay DeLuca, she was inspired to continue his legacy of service through this foundation.

 As President, April is committed to making sure young people feel seen, supported, and equipped to build meaningful, lasting careers — and to reminding them, as Jay would’ve, that there’s pride in doing good work and showing up for others. 

Julia is the heart of the JD BUILDS Foundation and the wife of Jay DeLuca, whose life and legacy inspired its creation. A devoted mother of three, longtime Oakdale resident, and passionate educator, Julia brings both a personal and professional commitment to supporting young people as they find their path.

Julia is a dedicated teacher who was honored as Educator of the Year in her district — a reflection of her ability to lead with compassion, resilience, and a genuine belief in the potential of every student. 

Throughout Jay’s illness and the months that followed, Julie remained a symbol of strength and purpose, always looking for ways to give back.

As Secretary, Julie helps guide the foundation with a focus on education, community, and honoring what mattered most to Jay: hard work, family, and lifting others up.

 Rick Garcia – Co-Founder

Rick brings decades of service, skill, and dedication to his role as Treasurer of the JD BUILDS Foundation. A proud member of the FDNY for over 20 years and a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, Rick has spent his life showing up for others — whether in uniform, on a job site, or within his own community.

Before joining the fire department, Rick worked in multiple areas of the construction industry, gaining hands-on experience in the trades that now fuel the mission of JD BUILDS. 

Rick and Jay were more than brothers-in-law — they shared values. Both believed in doing the work, supporting your people, and helping where you can. 

As Treasurer, Rick honors that legacy by ensuring the foundation’s resources are used responsibly and with purpose.

Richard Garcia SR

 Richard Garcia Sr. is a retired FDNY Lieutenant whose career was defined by service, leadership, and a never-quit attitude. He trained countless new recruits as an instructor and served as the FDNY’s Tactical and Anti-Terrorism Coordinator, always leading from the front with strength and precision.

Even in retirement, Richard keeps moving forward — earning his bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University and continuing to be a steady, dependable force in the lives of those around him.

A devoted husband, proud father, and grandfather, Richard is the kind of person who shows up, no matter what. Strong, sharp, and truly selfless, he brings his resilience and heart to everything he does — including his role on the JD BUILDS board, where he’s helping shape a stronger future for the next generation.

Eric May

At just 19 years old, Eric brings a powerful mix of hands-on experience, deep-rooted values, and a personal connection to the trades. A working mechanic currently enrolled in the HVAC program at Suffolk County Community College, Eric represents the next generation of skilled workers the JD BUILDS Foundation aims to support.

Inspired by the legacy of his grandfather, father, and uncle—all FDNY firefighters who taught him the value of hard work and the power of a well-stocked toolbox—Eric grew up learning to fix what’s broken and build what’s needed. His life was also deeply shaped by the example set by Jay DeLuca, whose impact continues to guide him.

Eric is proud to serve on the Advisory Board and help ensure that students like him get the support they need to launch strong, skilled careers.

Anthony Notaroberta

Anthony is a Marine Corps Veteran who served for 8 years in the Marine Corps including 2 tours in Iraq. During his Military career he saw many young adults transform into fine young men and women through teamwork, honor, and commitment. A lifelong transformation such as this is the mission of JD Builds Foundation. 

Anthony currently works and Northport VA Medical Center in the Logistics Department and his current role involves analyzing and making improvements to policies, functions, and procedures throughout collaboration with Northport Leadership. 

Anthony has been Jay’s best friend since childhood. The two of them were as close to brothers as anyone an be. Anthony understands as well as anyone just how selfless and caring Jason was, and he has always been proud of the impact that Jay had on his family, friends, and his community.

Anthony will contribute to this amazing organization as an Advisory Board Member and he plans to use all of skills to help shape a wonderful future for future generations in honor of his brother Jason DeLuca.