Rhode Island Community Leader Cardenas Passes Away

Rhode Island Community Leader Cardenas Passes Away

Rhode Island community leader Jorge Cardenas has passed away.

Lt. Governor Dan McKee and General Treasurer Seth Magaziner took to social media to express their condolences. 

Cardenas was the founder of the “Back to School Celebration of Rhode Island.”

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

He was involved this past August in the event’s 21st year, distributing 16,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to students throughout the state. 

“Jorge Cardenas believed, with all his heart, in the power of community and bringing people together,” said McKee. 

“He changed thousands of lives and made our state a stronger, kinder place. That is how we will remember him. Rest in peace, my friend.”

Magaziner also expressed his sympathies at Cardenas’ passing. 

“I am devastated to learn of the passing of my friend Jorge Cardenas,” said Magaziner. 

“As founder of the annual Back to School celebration, Jorge helped tens of thousands of students with access to school supplies. He was a kind and generous man, devoted to the community,” he added. “His spirit will live on.”