The Franklin Summer Program consists of about 50 students. The activities break down into six groups of nine children each, most of them are ages six to 13. Some also serve as junior and senior counselors.

"In summer '97 Eric was recommended for junior counselor based on his rapport with the kids and his good attitude," Courson said.

For two hours each day, Eric taught kids about art and sports. "Everyone thought that Eric had a gift," said Manuel Rodriguez '99. "He was a role model."

As part of the Teen Mentoring Program, Eric would join the group on several field trips throughout the year.

"He never took his opportunities for granted," Rosaldo said.

"Although materially Eric had very little to give, he was one of the most talented, intelligent people I ever met through my experiences in the Teen Mentoring Program," Scott said.

Boston police continue to look for Eric's killer as well as for the weapon used in the crime. In the meantime, Eric's former mentors said they still remember him standing in front of Grover Cleveland Middle School at 8:30 a.m., waiting for the counselors to start a new day of camp.

"I'll always remember him there," Scott said. "And I will always remember him waving at me.