Leonardo Zermeno knows what it means for a parent to worry about not having a job or be able to provide for one’s family. In 2007, his father suffered a severe heart attack. Enormous medical bills have accumulated since and Leonardo notes “my family is in economic crisis. My mother’s income is the only source of money we are receiving.” Leonardo said he knows that getting a college education will make a difference, not only in his life, but in the lives of all of his family members. With a current GPA of 3.6, Leonardo wants to attend the University of California San Diego and major in accounting. “Being dependable is something that I feel is rewarding,” Leonardo said. “My family relies on me to do a lot of work in our home…from normal house chores to translating conversations to filling out documents my parents don’t understand.” His baseball coach said Leonardo “enhances the morale of the team with his positive attitude and sense of humor.” He said that Leonardo is a team leader who excels not only in baseball but in the classroom as well. Leonardo’s Spanish teacher said that he “contributes greatly to enhancing the quality of learning at Saddleback High School by providing us with high quality assignments, a high level of motivation, and a natural disposition to help others.” He added that Leonardo will give back to the community of Santa Ana because of his intense desire to help others in need. The Simon Family Foundation highly encourages a giving spirit like his.