Jesuina Nunes Head Nurse, Massachusetts ADH, Brockton Adult Day Health Center
Grant Recipient, Cape Verdean Association of Brockton/American Red Cross

As head nurse for Massachusetts ADH’s program in Brockton, Massachusetts, Jesuina Nunes goes above and beyond on a daily basis in her work on behalf of the clients at the Center. Jesuina has also taken on the role of educating and providing training to all new and current staff members. Given her can-do spirit, it is no surprise then that outside her working hours Jesuina volunteers her time, giving back to a wide array of organizations and helping those in need in the Brockton area.

The Cape Verdean Association of Brockton holds a special place in Jesuina’s heart, as they provided her a scholarship allowing her to go to nursing school. “I want to give back to those who gave to me,” she shared. The Cape Verdean Association is a non-profit community-based organization, whose mission is to provide education, health, civic, social and human services to the Cape Verdeans and other people residing in the greater Brockton area. Jesuina serves as the Secretary on the Board of Directors, volunteers at their summer camp, plans and participates in peace walks and community clean ups, and utilizes her nursing skills to do health screenings and teach CPR.

Jesuina also donates her nursing skills to the American Red Cross where she teaches CPR to high school students, performs CPR demonstrations at health fairs and other community events, volunteers at blood drives and any other opportunity to educate others. She said, “I love teaching, but especially love teaching CPR because the kids are always amazed and it is a pleasure to share with others what you already know.”

The Roosevelt Heights public housing development is where Jesuina’s nephew lived before he passed away last year.  She volunteers at their community center with the after school program doing fun activities with the children and helping them with their homework. “I enjoy spending time with the kids and it allows me to carry out the memory of my nephew by helping at the place he loved spending time,” she said.

“Jesuina is an exemplary nurse, displaying everyday what a nurse should be, a very caring and giving person,” said Sonia Carvalho, Program Director at Massachusetts Adult Day Health Alliance’s Brockton Adult Day Health Center. “She invests her time and knowledge in ways that improve the health of others in the community. She is a natural helper and giver.”