Aspiring 2 Inspire (A2i) was born out of a deep passion for community service, equity, and the limitless potential within young people.
What began as a simple annual expression of holiday cheer quickly evolved into a movement dedicated to uplifting youth through mentorship, education, and real-life connection.
Initially conceived as “Holidays with Heroes” (an annual shopping spree for youth), we began with one simple goal: to be the spark that ignites change — one child, one family, one neighborhood at a time.
To empower, encourage, and engage youth by providing impactful programs and mentorship that promote leadership, critical thinking, and community responsibility.
A future where every child has access to opportunity, a network of support, and the confidence to become a leader in their own life and community.
We focus on the holistic development of the adolescent — emotionally, psychosocially, and academically.
Our programs offer the opportunity to build confidence in safe spaces and provide youth with tools that can transform their futures.
We collaborate with families, schools, local leaders, community organizations, mental health agencies, and volunteers to ensure that our impact is lasting and grounded in community support. We emphasize the holistic development of each child—emotionally, psychosocially, and academically.
We’re always looking for passionate individuals and partners who share our vision.
Whether you’re interested in mentoring, volunteering, or supporting our mission, there’s a place for you at A2i.
At the core of Holidays with Heroes (Aspiring to Inspire) are its co-founders, Josephine and Michael Bolus, whose unwavering commitment to youth empowerment has shaped the organization’s mission and impact.
Josephine Bolus dedicated her life to community service and youth development. She began her nursing career in 1971, receiving an AAS degree in Nursing from New York City Community College. She then served the Kings County Hospital Center patient community as a Staff Nurse in the Pediatric Emergency Room. In 1975, Mrs. Bolus completed the Kings County Hospital/State University of Health Science Center Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program and later served as a certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner until her retirement in 1997.
As a champion for the recognition of the vital role of nurses and their contribution to the delivery of health care, Josephine pioneered the establishment of certification guidelines for the nurse practitioner in New York State. She also served as Preceptor for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner students at Columbia University and Registered Nursing students at Kingsborough Community College.
Her post-retirement activities include: Founder, Retired RN Network; former Second Vice Chairperson of the Community Advisory Board at the Dr. Susan Smith McKinney Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; former Member, New York State Nurses Association; Member, NYS House of Delegates, American Nurses Association; Member, Brooklyn College Alumni Board; President, Brooklyn’s Canarsie Lions; Member, NYPD 69th Precinct Community Council; Usher and past President, Rosary Society of St. Jude’s Church.
As the first nurse practitioner to sit on the board of directors of the NYC H&H, she served all 10 of NYC Health + Hospitals board committees – namely, Audit, Capital, Executive, Equal Employment Opportunity, Finance, Quality Assurance, Medical & Professional Affairs/Information Technology; as well as Strategic Planning and Community Relations, which she chairs. In addition to her AAS, Mrs. Bolus also earned a Bachelors of Health Science from Brooklyn College and Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University.
Her passion for nurturing young minds and creating growth opportunities laid the foundation for the organization’s initiatives. Josephine’s efforts extended beyond Holidays with Heroes, as she played a significant role in organizing community events, such as the Memorial Day parade in Canarsie, Brooklyn.
Her contributions were deeply valued by the community, and her legacy continues to inspire the organization’s work.
Michael Bolus, a former law enforcement officer, US Army Nurse Corp Officer, NYC public school teacher, and currently a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, has steadfastly advanced their shared vision after his mother’s passing.
His leadership has been instrumental in developing and implementing programs that foster critical thinking, leadership skills, and community engagement among youth.
Michael’s dedication ensures that the organization’s mission thrives, honoring Josephine’s memory and their collective commitment to empowering the next generation.
Together, Josephine and Michael Bolus exemplified the power of partnership in effecting positive change.
Their collaborative efforts have created impactful programs, such as the Critical Thinking Series and Holidays with Heroes Shopping Extravaganza, which continue to benefit countless young individuals.
The enduring legacy of Josephine and the ongoing dedication of Michael serve as a testament to the profound impact that compassionate leadership and community involvement can have on shaping a brighter future for our youth.
