12/19/2025
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Jerry Destin
Nominated by Luis Santiago, Director of Adult Residential Programs
“Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” - Alan D. Wolfelt
A man of very few words (on paper), Jerry Destin leaves his heart and soul on the plate. The chef for the Domestic Violence Shelter (DVSS), Jerry is known for his scrumptious meals and mouthwatering desserts.
In his short time at the YWCA, Jerry has made a tremendous impact. From preparing a family style Thanksgiving spread to baking gingerbread for the children to decorate during the holidays, Jerry creates meaningful, positive experiences for the residents in DVSS.
“Jerry consistently goes above and beyond to make our guests feel welcomed and cared for,” said Luis Santiago, Director of Adult Residential Programs. “He prepares a variety of delicious, nutritious, culturally sensitive meals each day, but it’s the thoughtful extras that set him apart: remembering individual preferences; preparing special meals for those who are sick or recently discharged from the hospital; and always having homemade treats and desserts on hand.”
Said Jerry, “I just want to help people, and try to make them happy through food.”
Jerry’s professional endeavors have always been driven by his desire to be of service.
“I was born and raised in Boston,” he said. Growing up in Dorchester and subsequently moving to Hyde Park was a formative experience that motivated Jerry to study Criminal Justice in college.
Working for a few years as a Corrections Officer, Jerry hoped to be a mentor to the youth he encountered in juvenile detention. Intent on becoming an ATF Agent, Jerry wanted to give back and clean up the neighborhood he grew up in. “I was a daredevil looking for action,” he said. “I wanted something that was going to be thrilling, and I could still make a difference.” A devoted father and husband to his five sons and wife Liana, Jerry’s decision to pivot to cooking was influenced by the birth of his first child.
“The men in my family didn’t cook,” he said. “I always loved food. My mom and grandmother were always cooking.” A baker for three years, Jerry attended the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Boston.
“Jerry serves every meal with love and passion, and his impact goes far beyond the kitchen,” said Michael Mitchell, Interim Assistant Director of DVSS. “He is an integral part of our facility and a positive male role model to the children and the women we empower, always leading with kindness, compassion, and respect.”
Added Jerry, “When I’m in the kitchen doing my thing, I am mimicking what my mom and grandmother did.”
Prior to coming to the YWCA, Jerry worked as operations manager at a homeless shelter. “One day the cook didn’t show up,” he said. “I stepped in to cook and people went crazy. I saw pure genuine kindness and happiness. I knew this was what I wanted to do.”
“I recently watched Jerry encourage a woman as she prepared to begin new endeavors,” said Micheal. “His empathy and reassurance truly reflected his heart and the trust he has built within our community.”
“The children adore him as well,” Michael continued. “One shared while moving out, ‘Please tell Jerry I’ll miss him and the delicious food and dessert,’ while another ran straight to the kitchen asking for pizza, met with Jerry’s warm smile and respectful reply. Jerry’s presence strengthens our facility every day, and he is truly deserving of this spotlight.”
Concluded Jerry, “I want to make food that feeds the soul.”
