Nice to Meet You!
Did you know that the In and Out-of-School Time field has some of the greatest working professionals that ‘Inspire Youth, Inspire Learning, and Inspire Change’ year-round? TEAMBOOST proudly features BOOST Partners, Ambassadors, and Leadership Team members in the GTKY (Getting to Know You) collaborative blog series! It’s time to Get To Know BOOST Leadership Team Member, Richard Gijon (he/him/his).
Thank you, Richard, for your meaningful contributions to the BOOST community! We appreciate you!
Get to Know BOOST Leadership Team Member Richard Gijon (he/him/his)
Richard is the Community Schools – Site Program Coordinator for the San Diego Unified School District in San Diego, CA.
What is one thing that motivates you? Share your inspiration.
I find a lot of my motivation through the relationships I have with the people around me. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, the connections I share with them push me to be my best self. Their support, trust, and encouragement give me the drive to keep going, knowing that what I do has a positive impact on the lives of those I care about. These relationships remind me that I’m not just working for myself, but also for the well-being and happiness of the people I value the most.
What go-to song would you sing at Karaoke night?
Fools Rush In and Power of Love
Share any unique hobbies or talents. 
I love to sing… tenor if you’re wondering.
Favorite animal noise?
Cow
What is your most treasured book to read? What are you currently reading?
There are so many books to choose from, and it can be overwhelming at times. One that really stood out to me was Simu Liu’s “We Were Dreamers”. His reflections on the immigrant experience resonated deeply with me, as I could relate to many of the challenges and triumphs he describes. It felt like I was reading a story that mirrored parts of my own life. Right now, I’m diving into “Drink Cultura” by José Antonio Burciaga, which explores Mexican-American identity. It offers a fresh perspective on cultural heritage and the immigrant experience. I find it both insightful and thought-provoking.
Share an inspirational quote that resonates with you.
“Do for one what you wish you could do for everyone.” – Andy Stanley
If you could be any person for a day, who would you be and why?
I would choose Mother Teresa. Her life was a testament to selflessness, compassion, and dedication to the service of others, especially the poorest and most marginalized. Being in her shoes for a day would offer a profound perspective on what it means to truly live for others, to embody unconditional love and empathy in its purest form. Experiencing her humility, faith, and strength as she worked tirelessly to provide care for those in need would be incredibly enlightening. It would offer a chance to understand how she maintained such unwavering devotion to her mission, despite the many hardships and challenges she faced daily.
What advice would you give your teenage self?
Be kind to yourself. You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s okay—treat yourself with the same compassion you show others. Love outrageously, without fear of being hurt or misunderstood. The more open-hearted you are, the richer your relationships will be. And most importantly, be true to yourself. Don’t bend to fit other people’s expectations or let their opinions shape who you are. Trust your instincts and embrace your individuality, because that’s what will guide you to a life of fulfillment and authenticity.
If you really knew me you would know that… 
compassion is at the core of who I am.
Today for breakfast I had…
A yogurt.
From all of us here at TEAMBOOST, thank you, Richard, for sharing your leadership with us. You are a wonderful partner and a shining light for youth!