TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico, a premier maritime transportation company and a committed shipping provider in Puerto Rico, recently celebrated its 11th year as the presenting sponsor of the Boys& Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico Youth of the Year Award. The commemoration took place on April 18, 2024, at the Plazoleta of Banco Popular, spotlighting TOTE’s long-term commitment to nurturing the talented youth of Puerto Rico through this esteemed award.
For more than a decade, TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico has stood alongside the Boys & Girls Clubs Puerto Rico (BGCPR) to recognize outstanding young individuals. This year, the deserving recipient of the Youth of the Year 2024 title is Rut A. Despiau Cáceres, representing the Boys & Girls Club Carolina, PR., selected from a pool often finalists, demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities and a passion for helping others.
Eduardo Pagán, vice president of TOTE Maritime Agency Puerto Rico and former President of the Board of Directors of BGCPR from 2017 to 2023, joined the festivities and emphasized the company’s dedication to community investment. “The private sector plays a pivotal role in the success and impact of organizations like the Boys and Girls Club,” said Pagán. “Financial support is crucial for youth education and development initiatives to thrive on the island, but mentoring and giving our time is equally vital to prepare the next generation of leaders for the future.”
Peter Santiago, vice president of commercial at TOTE Maritime Agency Puerto Rico and BGCPR Board Member, joined the finalists ahead of the event to share more about creating goals and staying motivated as they progress in their education and future careers. At the evening event, Santiago presented the TOTE Medal to Rut A. Despiau Cáceres.
With 12 clubs across the island, Boys& Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico provides educational opportunities and skill development to over 30,000 individuals, fostering a brighter future for the island’s youth.
To learn more about TOTE and its corporate social responsibility programs, visit www.totemaritime.com/community.