San Juan
2012 Director’s Community Leadership Awards
| San Juan |
Basta Ya Puerto Rico |
| Co-founder and President Luis Romero accepts the award on behalf of Basta Ya Puerto Rico. |
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The San Juan Division is pleased to honor Basta Ya Puerto Rico, an anti-violence nonprofit organization, as a recipient of the 2012 Director’s Community leadership Award. Basta Ya Puerto Rico (That’s Enough, Puerto Rico) was created by Marie Rodriguez and Luis Romero after their son, Julian Romero-Rodriguez, was murdered on April 18, 2011 during an armed robbery attempt. It was the night of his 20th birthday. Julian’s parents formed the nonprofit to transform the behavior and habits of local citizens by promoting crime prevention and working together to bring the guilty to justice. The organization is known for its citizens awareness projects, which are broadcast through social networks, TV, radio, and newspapers. In 2012, Basta Ya Puerto Rico created a telecommunication software application for iPhones and Android phones to help citizens report crimes to police. To date, more than 27,000 apps have been downloaded in Puerto Rico. In addition, the organization has created safety zone areas that combine the resources of municipalities, businesses, state government, communities, and corporations to improve the safety and enjoyment of designated areas. A Zona Segura Basta Ya (Basta Ya Secure Zone) is an area where the general public can feel safe while enjoying the outdoors. |