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Jimmy Mera

— Community Leader & Advocate

Jimmy Mera is a proud veteran, dedicated public servant, and longtime advocate for the growth and unity of the City of Newburgh. Since making Newburgh his home in 1978, Jimmy has committed his life to strengthening the community through service, leadership, and a deep sense of responsibility to others.

With over 10 years of experience as a Building Inspector for the City of Newburgh, Jimmy has played a critical role in supporting safe, sustainable development and preserving the integrity of the city's infrastructure. His work reflects a strong commitment to public safety, community revitalization, and long-term economic stability.

Jimmy's passion for service is deeply rooted in the values instilled by his parents. Inspired by his mother's perseverance and his father's strong work ethic, he has dedicated his life to uplifting others and fostering a culture of accountability, resilience, and community pride.

Newburgh's potential is unlimited — as a destination that can attract investment, celebrate diversity, and create shared opportunities for residents and visitors alike. — Jimmy Mera, Founder

A global thinker with a local focus, Jimmy has traveled extensively and understands the role tourism plays in driving economic development, cultural exchange, and community visibility. Through his leadership and vision, Jimmy is committed to advancing initiatives that promote economic mobility, support small business development, and strengthen community infrastructure — building pathways for sustainable success while leaving a lasting legacy of collaboration, empowerment, and inclusive growth.

Francisco Martinez

— Entrepreneur & Community Builder

Francisco Martinez was born in Puebla, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States in 1990. Since establishing his life in Newburgh, New York, he has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to entrepreneurship, family, and community development. A graduate of Newburgh Free Academy, he has been married for over 30 years to his wife Rosa, whose unwavering support has played a vital role in helping him achieve his personal and professional goals.

In 1997, Francisco founded his first business, La Amistad — marking the beginning of a successful entrepreneurial career. Over the years, he has established and operated five additional businesses, contributing to the local economy and creating opportunities for others within the community.

Power is measured by how much you can help someone else. — Francisco Martinez, Co-Founder & VP

Guided by this philosophy, Francisco approaches his work with humility, respect, and a strong sense of purpose. His vision over the next five years is to develop and expand a community-based organization dedicated to youth empowerment, mentorship, and leadership development. Central to this vision is the establishment of a community center in Newburgh that will serve as a resource hub for education, personal growth, and opportunity.

Francisco is committed to building a lasting legacy within the Spanish-speaking community by fostering access to resources, support systems, and opportunities for future generations.

Ronald Zorrilla

— Civic Leader & Small Business Advocate

Ronald Zorrilla is a Hudson Valley–based civic leader, nonprofit founder, and small business advocate whose work bridges economic development, community service, and equitable access to opportunity. The son of immigrant entrepreneurs, Ronald grew up watching his parents build a life through hard work, resilience, and the kind of grit that continues to shape Latino small businesses in the Hudson Valley today.

As a Small Business Advisor with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Ronald counsels founders and owners on launching, financing, and scaling their ventures — translating complex guidance into plain-language action plans for the entrepreneurs who need it most. He is also the founder and CEO of Outdoor Promise, a nonprofit advancing urban conservation, environmental justice, and equitable outdoor access across the region.

Championing the entrepreneurs who power our region's economy — and reflect the story of his own family. — Ronald Zorrilla, Treasurer

Ronald was elected to the Newburgh City Council (Ward 4) for the 2026–2029 term, where he represents residents on neighborhood investment, economic opportunity, and quality-of-life issues. He previously served on Newburgh's Conservation Advisory Council and the Downing Park Planning Committee. He mentors early-stage founders through CUNY Startups and is a graduate of Rising Tide Capital's Community Business Academy.

Desiree Osorio

— Advocate & Single-Mother Champion

Desiree immigrated to the United States in 1995 at the age of ten, and from an early age learned the value of hard work and responsibility by helping support her family starting at just twelve years old. A 2002 graduate of Middletown High School, she carries forward a lifelong commitment to perseverance and service.

As a proud mother of five, her family is the foundation of everything she does — especially her youngest son, who is on the autism spectrum. Through her journey as his advocate, Desiree has learned firsthand how to navigate complex systems, fight for essential rights, and secure the services he needs to thrive. These experiences have inspired a deeper purpose: to stand up for other families facing similar challenges.

Strong families build strong communities. — Desiree Osorio, Secretary

Eleven years ago, she moved to Newburgh as a single mother, balancing two jobs while raising her children and later establishing her own property management business. Motivated by purpose, Desiree returned to college and is currently pursuing a degree in legal studies to strengthen her ability to advocate effectively within her community. She has expanded her professional path into the insurance industry, where she educates and protects families by helping them build financial security and long-term stability.