The Board of Directors of Olivet Boys and Girls Club of Reading & Berks County recently announced the hiring of Rick Perez as the Club’s new Chief Executive Officer.
Perez learned more than bumper pool and basketball moves during his childhood days at Olivet. Staff at the Clinton Street location led by example and shared lessons Perez has carried for a lifetime.
Their belief in him and his big dreams allowed Perez to believe in himself. Perez would become a motivational speaker, educator, and athletic coach who led the Reading Red Knights basketball team to a historic three-state championship.
In his new role as Club CEO, Perez will continue to pay it forward and share that same encouragement with children throughout our community. The Olivet Board of Directors voted unanimously on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, to approve Perez as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and he will officially begin his new role as CEO on June 17, 2024.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” Perez said. “Olivet kids are all heart and grit, and we will give them the best. I’m excited and grateful for this opportunity.”
“We thank our staff, board members, and the broader Olivet community for their support as we completed an extensive search and selection process,” said Angel Helm, Search Committee Chair. “Rick is a rising star, and we are excited that he is bringing his light and leadership to Olivet. His all-in approach will help to secure a bright future for our organization and members.”
Perez said his story mirrors that of Olivet– knocked down a few times but always able to rebound and end up on the winning side. “I wasn’t easy to deal with as a young adult, to be honest,” Perez said. “I had to learn the hard way, but I know everything that happens in life has a greater purpose. The Olivet played a vital role in teaching me these life lessons. I’ll be able to use my comeback stories and experiences to build on Olivet’s legacy and connect with a new generation of Olivet members,” said Perez.
Olivet Board Chair P. Sue Perrotty said she loves it when Olivet kids “come back home” to support the organization, which, for more than 100 years, has been a haven and an invaluable community resource.
“Rick is a skilled leader who is rooted in our community,” Perrotty commented. “I believe he is the right person to inspire our members, partner with our board and staff, and lift our organization as we transition into our next chapter. He understands what it takes to build champions, and I know he’ll bring that spirit and energy to our team.”
Perrotty noted, “Rick’s game plan will include ensuring members have safe spaces to explore and foster their interests, from the arts and athletics to STEM programs and volunteer service.”
Perrotty emphasized, “The entire Olivet organization wishes to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to The Opportunity House Board of Directors who provided the time and talents of their CEO, Modesto Fiume, COO, Alyssa Bushkie, and Chief People & Culture Officer, Dori Bornstein, to serve as interim leaders to both Olivet and Opportunity House at the same time. We are deeply indebted to Modesto, Alyssa, and Dori for their leadership, compassion, and dedication to the Olivet Mission and ensuring that our kids continued to be served during our search for our new CEO. We are thrilled they will work with Rick as he transitions into his role as CEO over the next few months. This is truly the greatest form of partnership when two non-profits can come together to ensure continuity of services for all.”
Modesto Fiume, interim Olivet leader, said, “After one conversation with Rick, you can feel his passion and love for both Olivet and the Reading-Berks community. I’m looking forward to working alongside him as we transition leadership and position Olivet for long-term success.”
Perez is a graduate of Wilson High School and earned undergraduate degrees from West Chester University and Marywood University. He is currently studying to become a licensed clinical social worker. Most recently, Perez worked as the Director of River Rock Academy’s Clifton Heights Campus. The school provides alternative education services for youth. Perez lives in Muhlenberg Township with his wife, Kristin, and their three children, Jadin, Kalib, and Leana. He is an active member of Glad Tidings Church.
