About Jasmine's Place
Jasmine's Place is a beacon of support and advocacy nestled in the heart of the City of Poughkeepsie, New York, serving the families of Dutchess County with unwavering dedication. This nonprofit organization stands as a vital resource for fathers navigating the complex terrain of family court proceedings, offering them guidance, empowerment, and a platform to voice their concerns.
At the core of Jasmine's Place mission is the commitment to championing the rights of fathers in the family court system. Recognizing the unique challenges and systemic barriers they face; Jasmine's Place provides a range of services aimed at leveling the playing field and ensuring fair treatment for fathers in legal proceedings.
One of the cornerstone initiatives of Jasmine's Place is its father support groups, providing a nurturing environment where fathers can share experiences, seek advice, and forge connections with others who understand their journey. These groups serve as a lifeline, offering emotional support and practical guidance to fathers as they navigate the often-turbulent waters of family court.
In addition to its advocacy efforts, Jasmine's Place is dedicated to fostering and strengthening the bonds between incarcerated parents and their children. Through innovative televisit services, the organization facilitates meaningful interactions between incarcerated fathers and their children, bridging the physical divide and nurturing familial connections even in the most challenging circumstances.
Crucially, Jasmine's Place understands the power of collaboration and partnership in effecting meaningful change. By forging alliances with organizations such as the Poughkeepsie School District, Love Quest Foundation, Hudson Valley Reentry Network, the Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse, and N.Y.S MICJ Regional 4, Jasmine's Place expands its reach and maximizes its impact, leveraging collective resources and expertise to better serve the community.
In essence, Jasmine's Place is more than just a nonprofit organization—it is a beacon of hope, empowerment, and solidarity for fathers and families throughout Dutchess County. Through its tireless advocacy, unwavering support, and collaborative spirit, Jasmine's Place is transforming lives, strengthening families, and building a brighter future for all.
Our Board
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Manuel Moore has been serving his community in the city of Poughkeepsie N.Y. by partnering with the city of Poughkeepsie School District. He has helped create and implement a Fatherhood & Male Support Group across the School District. In addition, Manuel helped to create and implement Donuts for Dads events across the School District th
Manuel Moore has been serving his community in the city of Poughkeepsie N.Y. by partnering with the city of Poughkeepsie School District. He has helped create and implement a Fatherhood & Male Support Group across the School District. In addition, Manuel helped to create and implement Donuts for Dads events across the School District throughout the 2023-2024 school calendar year. He continuously has been active with his own community-based podcast called Fatherhood Talk Live. Mr. Moore understands the in dept process of Family Court, and after years of fighting for custody for his daughter Cheyenne, in 2015 he was granted sole custody of his daughter by Bronx Family Court. He is now raising his daughter full time and is currently advocating for fathers by helping them obtain visitation rights and holding support groups for fathers in the Dutchess County area.
Edwardo Gutierrez / President
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Edwardo Chuck Gutierrez is a seasoned baseball professional with a rich history in the sport. Graduating from All Hallows HS in 1982, he embarked on a notable college career, playing at Conner State JR College, Kansas State College, and Dominican College. Venturing to Canada, Gutierrez showcased his skills as a pro player for the Guelph
Edwardo Chuck Gutierrez is a seasoned baseball professional with a rich history in the sport. Graduating from All Hallows HS in 1982, he embarked on a notable college career, playing at Conner State JR College, Kansas State College, and Dominican College. Venturing to Canada, Gutierrez showcased his skills as a pro player for the Guelph Royals. Transitioning to coaching in 2000, he spent an impressive 23 years as the head coach at All Hallows HS, guiding numerous young talents to successful college and professional baseball careers. From 2011 to 2019, Gutierrez played a pivotal role in establishing and coaching the nationally ranked travel team, Bronx. at All Hallows HS, amassing over 300 high school wins in the CHSAAA. Gutierrez boasts a championship record, securing titles like the 2006 Championship at All Hallows and leading the team to a Championship appearance in 2011. His coaching prowess earned him recognition, including the Daily News HS Coach of the Year award in 2011. In 2022, Gutierrez led the All Hallows team to Division Champions and a Final 4 appearance. Beyond high school coaching, he's been a head instructor in A-Rod baseball camps in Miami, Florida, contributing to the development of players like Alex Rodriguez, Carlos Beltran, Jose Reyes, Jorge Polanco, James Norwood, Stephan Alemais, and many others.
Gregory Jacobs / Treasurer
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Gregory Jacobs / Treasurer
Gregory Jacobs is a seasoned educator with over 16 years of experience serving in various capacities within the New York City Department of Education. From September 2005 to 2021, he dedicated his career to fostering excellence in education as the Principal of PS 155Q. In this role, Gregory played a pivotal role in shaping the educatio
Gregory Jacobs is a seasoned educator with over 16 years of experience serving in various capacities within the New York City Department of Education. From September 2005 to 2021, he dedicated his career to fostering excellence in education as the Principal of PS 155Q. In this role, Gregory played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of the school, implementing effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification programs.
A champion of professional development, Gregory trained teachers on innovative instructional methods, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to create dynamic and engaging learning environments. He conducted comprehensive classroom evaluations to assess the efficacy of teaching strategies and provided constructive feedback to support continuous improvement.
Gregory holds a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration, with a specialization in School District Leadership (SDL), from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York. He also earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Lehman College of the City University of New York in the Bronx, and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Human Resource Management from Baruch College of the City University of New York in New York City.
Valerie Coleman / Secretary
Manuel Moore / Executive Director
Gregory Jacobs / Treasurer
Current owner/operator of More Hair Salon, Poughkeepsie, NY and CEO of David Songs productions. Beacon NY native, wife, mother and grandmother. Valerie is a baptized member of the Gathering of Christ Church. Life educated and still learning, mentor to many.