In addition to giving chocolates lovers a new addiction, Jer attributes his success to his acts of giving and compassion throughout his life. Since Jer's Chocolates were initially created as gifts for friends and family, today, that concept still holds true. Jer contributes his company’s products and time to charitable organizations throughout the year as part of his, appropriately titled, initiative: Jer’s Cares.

For more than 15 years, Jer has devoted his time to volunteering in local schools and groups. His strong sense of community is reflected in his frequent talks to students in the Southern California area; offering insight on points, such as: selecting the right career, turning classroom theory into “real world” experience, taking risks in life, and the importance of staying in school. Jer has been described as “a natural speaker whose own entrepreneurial story is invariably an inspiration to everyone; from school children to college students.”

Offering a multitude of support, through both his own efforts and those of his company, Jer has worked with hundreds of local and national organizations to contribute to their various missions and goals.

He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Food Bank; a cause he has long supported. This support of the Food Bank goes back to before he began Jer’s Chocolates. For years, Jer hosted annual holiday parties in which thousands of pounds of canned goods were donated by guests and given to the local Food Bank.

Over time, Jer’s work with the San Diego Food Bank has gotten him involved with the soliciting of product and monetary donations from large food companies and to play an important role in helping organize community contribution drives. He also serves as a public spokesperson during radio spots, television appearances, and interviews with regional print media.

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The Jer’s Cares initiative places a heavy focus in assisting organizations, groups and charities that work to make positive differences in their community, throughout the nation, and around the world. With ongoing efforts in the following non-profit sectors, Jer’s Chocolates graciously welcomes new areas and ideas to incorporate into its Jer’s Cares program.

Through in-kind donations, fundraising programs and sponsorships, Jer’s Chocolates strives to extend a helping hand that reaches further and further each and every time.

1. Youth & Education

- Assist organizations whose focus is to promote healthy, safe and positive lifestyles and learning experiences for children and young adults.

2. Health Advocacy and Research

Provide support to those organizations dedicated to disease research and control; as well as those who provide hope and coping tools to individuals and families with health issues or diseases.

3. Poverty & Hunger

Helping with organizations who work to alleviate the prevalence of poverty and hunger in their communities.

4. Community & Social Services

Promote the efforts of organizations who aim to better the community and its members by providing helpful services and amenities on a small or large scale.