About Jean Forde
Jean Forde served as a senator in the 31st and 32nd Legislatures and continues to believe in education as a vehicle to effect positive change. Through Helping Ourselves Meet Excellence (HOME), the philanthropic organization that he founded, Jean works within and throughout the community, making a difference in the lives of all with whom he comes in contact. With his life experiences in education, management, community service, and politics, Jean A. Forde is a Virgin Islander who is focused on making a positive difference in this Territory, we call HOME.
Impact
During his time serving in the 31st and 32nd Legislatures of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Jean A. Forde sponsored, co-sponsored and proposed many pieces of legislation that have improved the quality of life in the Territory. He has been a voice for working class Virgin Islanders in the private sector, championing the fight to increase the minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.50 as of June 1, 2018.
$3+
added to minimum wage
In 2015, Virgin Islanders working within the private sector, earned only $7.25 per hour. Through the work and determination of Senator Jean A. Forde, these workers now earn $10.50 per hour as of June 2018. He didn't stop there, however. In February 2017, he proposed to increase the minimum wage for public sector employees from $20,000 to $27,000.
$28m+
paid to gers
Senator Jean A. Forde is committed to bringing the Government Employees Retirement System to solvency. In 2016, Forde identified a government oversight and failure to provide a yearly appropriation of $7 million from rum excise tax revenues (Act No. 7261) to assist GERS. As of today, $28 million has been paid to help secure the future of government retirees.
$100k+
donated in supplies
50 engraved dining tables to Joseph Gomez Elementary
Lawnmower and A/C units to Addelita Cancryn Junior High
Dishwasher and food warmer to Lockhart Elementary
Bicycles for each elementary and middle school in the District
Art supplies for all elementary schools
Distribution of clothing, water, food, tarpaulins, camping stoves, and personal hygiene items in neighborhoods and public areas after two devastating Category 5 hurricanes
Worked with All Hands and Hearts and AmeriCorps to carry out gutting, debris removal and mold remediation in District public schools and homes