I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the

strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.

-Christopher Reeve

About Jessica

I would like to tell you about the person whom the foundation is named for, Jessica Michelle Green. Jessica was a beautiful soul and an inspiration for individuals with disabilities. She made an impact on the lives of the people that knew her.

Athletics was an important part of Jessica’s life. She played Varsity Fast Pitch Softball for Ed White High School, she was on the Jax Blast Youth Bowling League, and she absolutely loved cycling. She admired Lance Armstrong and could spend all day cycling. She tried getting others in the neighborhood to ride with her to share her joy. Jessica was a determined young woman and gave her all in everything that she did. This attitude won her multiple awards, but she was just as determined that others with disabilities should be given the same opportunities as she had. It was because of Jessica that her friends were given the chance to try out for the Varsity Softball Fast Pitch team at Ed White High School. Jessica convinced the coach to allow two Special Needs girls to try out. The opportunity was given to these girls because of Jessica.

Jessica was not only an athlete, but an artist as well. She enjoyed going to an art studio. Jessica was joined by other children with autism who shared her passion. The Art Studio’s owner was so impressed with Jessica’s art work that she had someone from the Times Union come out to do a special write up on her painting. Jessica’s art was entered in an art show. She was approached by individuals who wanted to buy her oil painting, but Jessica replied that she wanted them to look at it, not buy it.

Jessica would help others in need whether human or canine. Webster was a dog that had only one eye. Jessica was quoted saying, “It kind of hurt me that he only has one eye, now he’s cool because he likes to come up to me.” A severely autistic child, who would not interact with others, began to come out of her shell because of Jessica’s friendship.

Former Mayor John Delaney recognized Jessica in a proclamation ceremony for her courage and determination in the achievement of outstanding accomplishments as a student and a community volunteer. He declared June 15, 1999, Jessica Green Day.

“I was so blessed to have had her in my life for 27 years. She became the heart of my life and I will never forget the special memories that her life represented to me”, said by her mother, Helen Green.