Public Employee Press

At the DC 37 Ed Fund: 1+1 = 3

By JANE LaTOUR

Four years ago they met in a math class — the first step — before they came to share the name, “Garcia.”

Theresa, a Police Administrative Aide at the 88th Precinct in the Fort Greene-Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn, was there to prepare for the college entrance exam.

Anthony, a Clerical Associate in the City Comptroller’s office, an Auxiliary Police Officer and a Bronx native, came to improve his math skills.

Both were active members of Clerical-Administrative Employees Local 1549. But off-duty and in addition to other commitments, they each took advantage of the courses offered by the DC 37 Education Fund.

Their friendship grew as they spent time together. They became study partners. Anthony was impressed by Theresa’s willingness to learn new math concepts and attracted by her sense of humor and positive attitude. Theresa found Anthony’s sense of humor and kindness appealing.

“He always carried himself like a gentleman,” she recalled. They started to date and soon made it “official” at a small private marriage ceremony at the Municipal Building.

On April 1, 2006, with the birth of Anastasia Carolyn Garcia, the Garcias became a family of three. The adults’ description of the baby captures their joy. To her parents, Anastasia is, “our precious little gem — beautiful, healthy, delightful and funny. She is a blessing and our pride and joy every day.”

Mrs. Garcia has a grown daughter, Chantel Monique, a Head Start teacher in Virginia. “I am blessed with the opportunity to become a wife and a mother again,” she said. “As a first-time father, Anthony is a warm, dedicated parent who showers love on his family.”

Their life as full-time workers, part-time students and politically active union members requires some juggling. Theresa takes the day shift at home with the baby and then works the evening shift, dispatching incoming 311 calls and 911 emergencies. Anthony heads home from the office and cares for Anastasia in the evenings. “Even though being a parent can be very demanding, we are blessed to be able to work together with lots of love, patience, and understanding,” he said.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Garcia are still pursuing their educational goals. Theresa graduated from the DC 37 Campus of the College of New Rochelle Jan. 31 with a bachelor of arts degree. She plans to continue her education at Long Island University in Brooklyn and take computer courses at DC 37 to improve her skills. Anthony plans to continue taking courses through the DC 37 Education Fund. Eventually, he would like to earn a degree in psychology.

Both are indebted to the Ed Fund. “We believe it was fate that brought us together in the math class,” said Theresa. “We want to thank the union for this and for giving us the opportunity to improve our education.”