For Rick Perez, CEO of the Olivet Boys & Girls Club of Reading & Berks County, the journey from wide-eyed club kid to community leader has been anything but conventional. A Reading native, Perez’s connection to Olivet began during a pivotal time in his childhood, and over the years, that relationship has grown into a lifelong commitment to youth development, mentorship, and community service.
“I was born in Reading, grew up right in the city, and started going to Olivet around the age of 11,” Perez recalled. “At the time, my parents had just divorced, and the Club became a place of refuge and fun. It introduced me to sports, friendships, and a sense of community that I hadn’t experienced before.”
That early exposure to Olivet’s programs was just the beginning. After high school stints at Muhlenberg and Wilson, and playing collegiate basketball at West Chester University, Perez’s path remained uncertain. A return home led him back to Olivet—not as a member, but as a staff member. What began as a job opportunity soon revealed a deeper calling.
🎧 Listen to this Episode: Rick Perez: CEO of Olivet Boys & Girls Club.
“I never intended to coach. Honestly, I didn’t know what I was going to do,” he said. “But being around the kids, I started to feel empowered. Coaching happened organically, and it ended up transforming my life.”
That transformation culminated in a remarkable coaching career, most notably as head coach of the Reading High School boys basketball team, where Perez led the Red Knights to three PIAA Class 6A championships. Today, he continues to coach at Muhlenberg High School while leading Olivet into a new era.
Perez’s appointment as CEO was not something he actively pursued. Instead, it was the encouragement of community leaders like Dr. Khalid Mumin, Angel Helm, and Su Parati that propelled him into the role. “They told me, ‘You’re going to be the CEO of Olivet.’ I thought they were joking. But they saw something in me that I hadn’t seen in myself yet.”
Under Perez’s leadership, Olivet is focusing on reopening key club locations, enhancing partnerships with local schools, and expanding its reach to support more of Berks County’s youth. Immediate goals include revitalizing the Powell and Mulberry clubs, which had been closed due to maintenance issues.
“Our mission is recreation, education, and fun,” Perez explained. “We’re not here to replace school. We want to support kids through programs that build leadership, provide academic support, and offer a safe, engaging environment after school.”
With an average daily attendance of 350 children and a growing membership nearing 700, Olivet’s impact is evident. But Perez is determined to reach even more. “There are nearly 19,000 students in the Reading School District. We want to find ways to reach every single one of them—whether that’s through our club locations, partnerships with schools, or even virtual programs.”
A defining aspect of Perez’s leadership is his personal connection to the kids Olivet serves. “I was one of these kids. I get it. I know what it’s like to race your bike to the club after school. That relatability helps build authentic connections.”
But Olivet’s success isn’t just about one person. Perez is quick to credit the dedicated staff, board members, and volunteers who keep the organization moving forward. “When I started, I walked into summer camp and saw 80 kids bursting with energy. That told me everything I needed to know—Olivet is alive and well because of the people who believe in this mission.”
Looking ahead, Perez envisions Olivet as a hub of inclusivity and opportunity. Whether it’s expanding sports programs, fostering leadership development, or collaborating with community partners, his goal is clear: to create a positive, lasting impact on the lives of Berks County’s youth.
“I always ask the kids, ‘Who’s the next CEO?’ Because I see myself in them. This role isn’t about the title—it’s about giving back to the place that gave me so much.”
For those interested in supporting Olivet, opportunities abound—from volunteering and mentorship to financial donations. “We need people. We need volunteers. Our kids benefit from seeing people from all walks of life who are willing to invest in them.”
Rick Perez’s story is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and coming full circle. As he leads Olivet into its next chapter, his focus remains steadfast: empowering the next generation, one child at a time.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.olivetbgc.org or follow Olivet Boys & Girls Club on social media.