About us
We created The Education and Safety Alliance for Girls (ESAG) in May of 2023 in New York to provide steadfast support for Happy Home, a sanctuary that exists - it’s called the Happy Home Trust, managed by the devoted Ranjeeta Devi. She has created a place where every child, regardless of their past traumas, finds love, care, and the opportunity to dream again.
Jennifer Vacca, President
Jennifer Vacca is the co-founder and president of the Education and Safety Alliance for Girls (ESAG). For the past 10 years, Jennifer has been deeply devoted to supporting the children at the Happy Home Trust. Her passion for helping those in need began at a young age, as she has always been an advocate for those less fortunate. In 2014, Jennifer met Ranjeeta and immediately knew she needed to dedicate her energy and resources to supporting the beautiful orphans at the Happy Home Trust. Her unwavering commitment to these children has been a driving force in her life and work with ESAG, where she strives to create a safe, supportive environment for young girls to flourish.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Jennifer has run her own business for 35 years, dedicated to helping parents and children connect through photography. She also volunteers for the Christmas Magic organization photographing homeless families making sure they will always have a family portrait to cherish.
“Photography is my passion, but giving back is my purpose.”
Katherine Hare-Ruiz, Treasurer
Katherine Ruiz is licensed optician, and has worked at Moss Opticians since 2006. She is a great proponent of education, especially for girls, and even more so for girls interested in the sciences. Kate’s background is in the sciences, her undergraduate degree is in Biology, her graduate degree is in Animal Behavior and Conservation. She is currently enrolled in an MBA in Healthcare Management program. Kate has stated that she often takes her education for granted, having attended parochial schools, then a college prep high school, going on to an esteemed university; however, she knows full well that education is a luxury, and in many parts of the world it is not readily available. Education is vital; it opens doors, encourages self-growth and confidence. “This is the thing I love most about working with ESAG: being able to assist young women gain access to primary and secondary education, and being able to ensure they can do so in a safe and loving environment.”
Anu Butani, Vice President
Anu Butani is a dedicated and devoted holistic wellness practitioner with over two decades of experience in supporting mind, body, and spirit. As a Reiki Master and Teacher since 2017, a Yoga Teacher since 2003, and an Ayurveda Practitioner since 2011, Anu integrates these transformative modalities to guide individuals towards balance and healing. Passionate about holistic well-being, Anu is also committed to making a difference in the lives of others through service, particularly at the Happy Home Orphanage in Puttaparthi India, supported through Educated and Safety Alliance for Girls, Inc in USA.
With a deep belief in the power of self-care, mindfulness, and compassion, Anu continues to empower clients and communities to live with greater harmony and purpose.
Anu has guided countless individuals toward balance and self-discovery. Passionate about giving back, she is devoted to serving the children of Happy Home Orphanage in India through the work with Educated and Safety Alliance for Girls, Inc., empowering lives through education and care.
www.reikioflongisland.com
Ann Marie Frisco, Secretary
Ann Marie Frisco is a retired librarian and teacher. Her undergraduate degree is from Hofstra University; where she majored in Humanities. Her graduate degree is from Columbia University where she double majored in Education and School Media. Ann Marie feels very fortunate that she was a student teacher at Bank Street School in Manhattan.
Ann Marie’s background also includes running puppet workshops, tutoring students, organizing craft workshops, and holding story hour programs for all grades levels. She has always enjoyed teaching and helping children. This is why she has chosen to become a member of ESAG. “My goal is to improve the lives of children in need. Our organization aims to assist students in all aspects of life, from basic needs like food and clothing, to educating them in a safe and welcoming environment. It is rewarding to know these students will grow to be independent adults.”
Ann Marie’s volunteer work has included food drives, working at the New York Blood Center, and sorting book donations at Book Fairies of Freeport, New York.
In addition, she enjoys practicing yoga, working in her garden and swimming year round at the local gym.