A Legacy of Service & Empowerment

Success Stories of Service and Empowerment

2024 marks the 60th anniversary of concerted efforts across the city to help fulfill DYCD's mission to alleviate the effects of poverty and to provide opportunities for New Yorkers and communities to flourish.

In commemoration of these efforts, we want to highlight the importance and impact of the agency's various programs at the human level. Scroll to see some of the real stories of program participants from across New York City.

DYCD Family Literacy Program

Description: This video explores the stories of teachers and students involved in DYCD's Family Literacy Program, which provides ESOL classes to newly immigrated families.

Children's Aid

Description: These videos detail the stories of two Children's Aid alumni, Dan Singleton and Christopher Boyle, describing their experiences growing up in NYC and the part that Children's Aid played in their development.

Adult Education Program: Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation – Manhattan

In January 2023, Latchme joined NMIC's Adult Education Program. Within six months, she earned her High School Equivalency Diploma, crediting her success to the supportive teachers. Grateful for the journey, Latchme stated, "Thank you. If it wasn't for my amazing teachers, I couldn't have done it." NMIC provided her with unwavering support and empowerment, unlocking new possibilities for her future.

ESOL Services: BronxWorx – Bronx

Rosanna R., a 46-year-old single mother from the Dominican Republic, moved to the Bronx in 2018 and has worked as a Home Attendant to support her three children. Back in the Dominican Republic, Rosanna had studied computer engineering, but her dreams of further education were sidelined by familial obligations and the loss of her husband. In 2022, she enrolled in the ESOL program at BronxWorks to improve her English. Thanks to her dedication, she passed her citizenship exam and is now applying to college to study social work, driven by her desire to make a meaningful impact in her community.

Fatherhood Initiative: Forestdale, Inc. – Queens

Mr. C joined the Strong Fathers Program after an incident led to his exclusion from home. He completed Parenting, Domestic Violence, and Anger Management classes, showing openness to change. Mr. C shared his traumatic upbringing and worked to improve his relationship with his family. His progress led to supervised and then unsupervised visits with his son. Now, his court case is over, communication with his partner has improved, and he enjoys more time with his children. Employed and actively participating in Strong Fathers events, Mr. C continues to grow and share his story, demonstrating his commitment to being a better father and partner.

Fatherhood Initiative: Forestdale, Inc. – Queens

Armando L. joined the Strong Fathers program at Forestdale in September 2023, facing homelessness and unemployment. Through the program, he completed Parenting Skills, Anger Management, and Domestic Violence classes. Forestdale provided him with gift cards for temporary relief during the holidays. After attending the Strong Fathers retreat, Mr. L found employment and now shares an apartment with friends. As of June 2024, he has completed all referred services and is part of the Strong Fathers alumni network.

Aissata M.B. Camara

Deputy Commissioner for Policy and Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff
Mayor’s Office of International Affairs

Aissata M.B. Camara is the Deputy Commissioner for Policy and Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff in the NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs. In this role, she provides international policy guidance to NYC agencies. She also works to strengthen NYC’s strategic leadership on the global stage through partnerships and best practice sharing with local governments, the United Nations, Consulates General, and civil society, and the private sector focused on cities leadership, the Sustainable Development Goals, equity, sustainability, health, education, technology, and diversity. Aissata also oversees the Diplomatic Parking Program and the protocol for the Mayor. She is responsible for the Office’s emergency response in collaboration with the General Counsel. Aissata is the main point of contact for Consulates from Africa, Latin America, and South America. She is also the liaison for Permanent Missions from Africa and the Americas. Aissata is a professional with over a decade of program development and management, strategic planning, operations, and relationship building experience in nonprofit, local government, and private sector. She is a recognized expert and excels in helping turn ideas into actionable steps.

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Edward Mermelstein

Commissioner, Mayor’s Office for International Affairs

Edward Mermelstein is New York City’s Commissioner for International Affairs. As head of the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, he leads the office’s mission to serve as the primary liaison between the City of New York and the diplomatic community, consular corp., and the United Nations. Prior to joining the Adams Administration, Edward was the CEO and founder of One & Only Holdings and One & Only Realty, where he specialized in international corporate and real estate law, private equity investment and joint ventures, as well as real estate investment. Edward’s experience in navigating international markets led him to be named one of New York City’s 10 most influential figures in real estate. He aims to bring the same tenacity to the Commission for International Affairs, and to help Mayor Adams reestablish New York City as the capital of the world. In addition to a remarkable career in the private-sector, Edward has also been an integral member of the philanthropic community. In 2016, Edward joined the Board of Overseers of NYU, where he established the Mermelstein Family Scholarship. He is also a Board Member of JDC, a leading global Jewish humanitarian organization, which works in 70 countries to lift lives and strengthen communities.

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Jackie Orr

CEO, New York State Community Action Association (NYSCAA)

Jackie Orr is the CEO at the New York State Community Action Association (NYSCAA),c the membership association for the 47 Community Action Agencies (CAA) in the state. NYSCAA provides training, technical assistance, support, and professional development opportunities. Jackie also worked for the National Association for State Community Services Programs (NASCSP) where she supported state offices across the country that administer Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funds. Prior to working in Community Action, Jackie was employed by a statewide nonprofit organization and is an experienced trainer and facilitator.

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Denise Harlow

CCAP, Chief Executive Officer, National Community Action Partnership (NCAP)

Denise Harlow serves as the CEO of the National Community Action Partnership, the hub that links the nation’s 1,000 local Community Action Agencies to each other and to leaders looking for solutions that connect Americans to greater opportunity. Community Action Agencies reach into 99% of America’s counties and provide life-changing services that build pathways to well-being and prosperity. With more than 34 years’ experience in the nonprofit sector, Ms. Harlow has a deep understanding of the complexities of the human services ecosystem and the challenges faced by community-based organizations and the families they serve. Prior to her tenure at NCAP, Ms. Harlow was the CEO of the New York State Community Action Association where she launched the Association’s annual Symposium on Poverty and Economic Opportunity and its annual Report on Poverty in New York State, and Sr. Vice President for Capacity Building for the New York Council of Nonprofits where she was the project director for the New York State Board Training Consortium. She began her Community Action career as a social worker with the Schenectady Community Action Program. She has a master’s degree in social work from the University at Albany where she was a Fellow on Women and Public Policy at the Center for Women in Government and Civil Society and holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Valparaiso University. Presently, Ms. Harlow serves on the national advisory committee for First Nonprofit.

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Dr. Dalitso S. Sulamoyo, Ph.D.

Chief Executive Officer, Champaign County Regional Planning Commission

Dalitso Sulamoyo was born and raised in Malawi, Southeast Africa. Since moving to the United States of America in the early 1990s, he has made economic and social justice a focal part of his calling to serve. Dalitso Sulamoyo has been the Chief Executive Officer of the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission, a Community Action Agency, since June 2017. As the CEO, Dalitso oversees a multi-faceted government agency with over 100 different federal, state, and local grants and contracts with a budget of over $60 million. The agency’s services range from transportation planning, police training, energy efficiency research and training, community services, workforce development, economic and community development to early childhood education for income eligible families. He served in that capacity for over 16 years before accepting the CEO position with the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission. He currently serves as the chair of the National Community Action Partnership. Dalitso graduated from Illinois College (Magna Cum Laude) with a BA in Political Science and International Relations. Dalitso received a Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Labor Relations and two master’s degrees in political studies and public administration from the University of Illinois at Springfield. He holds a Ph.D. in Organization Development from Benedictine University.

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Manuel A. Rosa

Director, Division of Community Services, New York State Department of State (DOS)

Manuel A. Rosa, known as Manny to friends and colleagues, currently serves as the Director of the Division of Community Services (DCS) within the New York State Department of State (DOS) since April 2018.As Director of the Division of Community Services, Manny works with an accomplished team of 18 professionals and is responsible for the administration of New York State’s Community Services Block Grant. In this capacity, he works in partnership with the DOS Fiscal Bureau; the DOS Office of General Counsel; 47 CSBG eligible entities, including DYCD as the New York State’s largest grantee, serving all five boroughs of New York City. In addition, CSBG provides funds to community-based-organizations that provide innovative programs, including essential services to newly arrived asylum seekers; financial literacy and asset building; as well as youth servicesHis experience includes positions in the administrations of three New York State Governors. He was appointed as New York State’s first Director of the Office of Minority Health; served as the first District Administrator for Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez; has worked in both Chambers of the New York State Legislature; was an Assistant Vice President for Community and Intergovernmental Affairs, at the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation, and much more.

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Judith Sam

Senior Director of Community Action Programs, Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Judith Sam is a seasoned community development professional dedicated to the holistic growth and empowerment of young people, families, and communities. Rooted in her Ghanaian heritage, born in Brooklyn, and raised in the Bronx, Judith’s career reflects her personal journey as a New Yorker who, like many others, benefited from the very services she now helps to create and implement. Her work is driven by a passion to give back to the community by promoting health, social-emotional wellness, educational enrichment, and economic mobility. Over her decade-long journey at the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), Judith has held key leadership roles that have significantly impacted youth and community services across New York City. Beginning as Deputy Director of COMPASS, the nation’s largest after-school system, she managed a portfolio of over 90 programs, providing vital academic and social-emotional support to K-8 students. Her leadership included mentoring Program Managers and ensuring continuous improvement through strategic planning and contract negotiations. As Director of Staff Development & Validation, Judith enhanced the capacity of community-based organizations (CBOs) by focusing on professional development and compliance with federal and city standards. She led initiatives to implement best practices and provided critical support to underperforming contractors, ensuring programs effectively met community needs. In her current role as Senior Director of Community Action Programs, Judith oversees the management of numerous citywide initiatives, particularly those funded through Community Service Block Grants (CSBG) as part of DYCD's Neighborhood Development Area (NDA) Initiatives. These programs include youth education, family services, economic development, crime prevention, the Fatherhood Initiative, self-sufficiency, and economic mobility. Judith supports non-profit organizations in building youth skills, increasing academic achievement, fostering leadership capabilities, and promoting financial independence.

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MAIN PLENARY PANELS 

Morning Panel 1: Supporting Immigrant Families: Celebrating Diverse Traditions through Holistic Learning 

Moderator:  

Manuel Castro

Commissioner, Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs 

In January of 2022, Manuel was appointed by Mayor Eric Adams as Commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA).  MOIA works to ensure immigrants access culturally and linguistically responsive services in partnership with agencies across the city and community partners. Prior to joining MOIA, Castro served as the Executive Director of New Immigrant Community Empowerment (NICE), a Queens-based organization working to create a world where immigrants can live and work with justice, dignity, and respect. Under Castro’s leadership, NICE developed a set-up of highly impactful and innovative programs and services aimed at strengthening the individual and collective capacities of immigrant workers, particularly those in the informal economy like day laborers and domestic workers. Castro also coordinated a statewide campaign of nearly 200 organizations working to pass federal immigration reform. As a child, Castro crossed the border with his mother to reunite with his father who immigrated to NYC years earlier. He grew up in Sunset Park and Flatbush, Brooklyn. He was part of the early generation of undocumented youth activists known as DREAMers fighting for the right to an education and legal status. Castro earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Urban Anthropology from Hampshire College and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the School of Public Affairs at Baruch College, City University of New York (CUNY) .

Molly Schaeffer

Executive Director , Mayor’s Office of Asylum Seeker Operations 

Molly Schaeffer joins the Adams administration as a deputy chief of staff and senior emergency advisor, where she will focus on COVID-19 and public safety. She has spent the last nine years in city government, starting in the chancellor's office at the New York City Department of Education and then as an advisor for mental hygiene at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Most recently, Schaeffer has served in City Hall for the last three years, first for the deputy mayor for operations and then for the mayor. A lifelong New Yorker and product of New York City public schools, Schaeffer received her B.A. from the University of Southern California.

Wayne Ho

President and Chief Executive Officer, Chinese American Planning Council, Inc

Wayne Ho is the President and CEO of the Chinese American Planning Council (CPC), the nation’s largest Asian American social services agency. With a mission to promote the social and economic empowerment of Chinese American, immigrant, and low-income communities, CPC serves over 280,000 community members in the areas of education, family support, and community and economic empowerment at 35 locations throughout New York City.  Wayne was the Executive Director of the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), the nation’s only pan-Asian children’s advocacy organization, from 2004-2013.  He was one of 10 leaders invited to meet with President Obama during the White House’s Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration in 2011. . Wayne received his Bachelor of Arts from UC Berkeley and his master's in public policy from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

Maria Ferreira Genao

Program Director , Center for Family Life at Sunset Park  

As Program Director of the Center for Family Life Adult Employment Program, Maria oversees the Job Readiness and Placement Program, DYCD funded portfolio which includes the Immigrant Families and the Healthy Families Programs as well as Literacy Services (Discretionary ESL and ESL/Civics Instruction). She also supervises the Mother Cabrini Foundation grant which expanded the provision of case management services to immigrant families and individuals. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the City College of the City University of New York. She holds a master's degree from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work. She received her SIFI from Hunter College and completed a Middle Management Certificate Program offered by the Institute for Non-for-Profit Management at Colombia Graduate school of Business. Maria started at the Center for Family Life Adult Employment Program as a volunteer (in 1985), shortly after she was hired as Employment Counselor. Within a few years she was promoted to Program Coordinator, and subsequently became Program Director.

Marc Valinoti

Assistant Director Immigration & DV , NMIC

He holds a B.A. in History from Boston University. Marc obtained his J.D. from New York Law School in 2012, where he volunteered for the Safe Passage Project, representing undocumented youth in Family Court and Immigration Court. He began working in private practice, representing clients on a wide variety of immigration issues, including removal defense and bond hearings. Marc joined NMIC in January 2016 where he manages NMIC’s Immigration Unit and supports the work of our Domestic Violence Project, serving low-income NYC residents with a focus on Upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Marc is committed to serving the most vulnerable members of our community and views the practice of law as a powerful means towards helping our immigrant neighbors lead safe and prosperous lives.

Afternoon Panel 2: Commissioner’s Round Table: DYCD’s Investment in Reducing Poverty in NYC 

Moderator: 

Keith Howard  

Commissioner, NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) 

Keith Howard was appointed Commissioner of the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) by Mayor Eric Adams in June 2022. Commissioner Howard formerly served as NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) Associate Deputy Commissioner of the Sidewalk Inspection Management Division. He also was an Adjunct Professor at Queens College and the Joseph S. Murphy Institute for Worker Education and Labor Studies. Commissioner Howard has dedicated 30 years of his professional career to public service and held various senior level positions in New York City government. While education and career are priorities in his life, there are more layers. As a child, he was taught by his parents about the importance of service to the community. So, in the summer of 2002, Commissioner Howard started the non-profit Harlem Group. The organization sponsored health fairs with government agencies and community-based organizations in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. In collaboration with Health Plus Incorporated, the Harlem Group successfully enrolled over 100 families in free health care programs underwritten by the New York State government. As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first Black Greek fraternity, Commissioner Howard has seen the need to build on the fraternity and a commitment to community service by creating a non-profit organization called Servants of All (SOA). For ten years, SOA has escorted more than 700 underprivileged high school and middle school students on college tours to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The goal of the tours is to bring college awareness to students who may not have the resources or access to visit college campuses across the country. Commissioner Howard is married and the father of two young adults. He is a proud alumnus of John Jay College, where he was awarded a bachelor’s degree as well as a master’s degree in public administration.

Panelists:

Part of Panel  2 & Moderator for Panel F

Mike Bobbitt 

Deputy Commissioner of Community Development , Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Linkedin-mikebobbitt/ Instagram @ bobbittmike 

Mike Bobbitt is the Deputy Commissioner of Community Development at DYCD. This Division includes the Discretionary, Literacy and Immigrant Services, Neighborhood Development Areas Initiative, Fatherhood Initiative Units. Mike strives to promote integration and strengthen referral relationships with other City agencies that assist New Yorkers with low incomes. Mike represents DYCD at the state and federal level, as a Board Member of the New York State Community Action Association.     
Prior to joining DYCD, Mike’s focus was in the field of criminal justice. He was a program manager in the JEHT Foundation's Criminal Justice Program, which sought to reduce the high levels of incarceration in the U.S., protect public safety, ease the financial burden to society of supporting the current approach to incarceration, and ensure that adults who come in contact with the justice system are fairly and appropriately treated. Prior to JEHT, Mike led training and technical assistance at Family Justice, assisting government and community-based organizations seeking to reduce criminal recidivism, improve family well-being, and increase compliance with supervision mandates for family members involved in the criminal justice system. Before Family Justice, he was at the Vera Institute of Justice. As Program Director of the Safe Return Initiative, he provided technical assistance to grantees of the U.S. Department of Justice`s Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative with the Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community at the University of Minnesota.

Susan Haskell  

Deputy Commissioner, Youth Services , NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) 

As Deputy Commissioner, Youth Services, Susan oversees programming that focuses on after school and summer, community centers, and services for Runaway and Homeless Youth. A lifelong youth worker, Susan has been a NYC public servant, including 10 years in her current role, and in the not-for profit sector –in the South Bronx, East Harlem and the Lower East Side. She was a GED math teacher, facilitated career development for HS students and out of school youth, and served in administrative roles for a range of social-emotional, academic and enrichment programming, including as Vice President, Youth Services at SoBRO.

Valerie Mulligan  

Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Connect , Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) 

Valerie is the Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Connect at the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development. In this role, she oversees the agency's youth workforce division, which is charged with administering a portfolio of career exploration programs, job training, and employment services to young people across New York City. This includes the Summer Youth Employment Program and WIOA-funded career pathways initiatives for out of school youth. Her portfolio also includes the Precision Employment Initiative, which connects New Yorkers at risk of gun violence with career readiness and job placement programs. Prior to joining DYCD, Valerie served as Assistant Commissioner of Budget at the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development and as Deputy Assistant Director at the Office of Management and Budget, where she supported the Social Services Task Force including DYCD programs. Valerie holds a Bachelor of Arts from Lehigh University and a Master of Public Administration from Baruch College, and hails from Staten Island, New York.

Darryl Rattray  

Deputy Commissioner for Strategic Partnerships Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) 

Darryl Rattray is the Deputy Commissioner for Strategic Partnerships at the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). With over 22 years of service with the agency, Darryl advocates for community empowerment and youth development. He was pivotal in developing the Out-of-School Time initiative, creating opportunities for countless youth. Additionally, he helps implement essential systems like DYCD's afterschool enrollment and attendance tracking system and the online payroll system for the Summer Youth Employment Program, enhancing operational efficiency. Darryl’s visionary leadership also led to the successful launch of the Cornerstone program initiative, vibrant community centers across New York City. His dedication to public service and community empowerment has been widely recognized. In 2021, Darryl received the prestigious Sloan Public Service Award, honoring his outstanding contributions. His recent achievements include a Congressional Certificate of Recognition, a New York State Assembly Certificate of Merit, and various accolades from the New York State Senate and New York City Council. Darryl’s journey began in the Bronx, where he dedicated himself to stopping violence in the West Farms section. His commitment to fostering positive change continues to shape New York City's future, making him a driving force for community and youth development.

Panel 2 & Workshop E

Denice Williams

Deputy Commissioner Planning, Research and Program Development
Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Denice is a native New Yorker dedicated to disrupting policies, practices, procedures that obstruct the advancement of BIPOC people and their opportunity to live their best lives. Denice has devoted her professional life in service to others in nonprofit and government settings. Currently, she serves as Deputy Commissioner for the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development overseeing the Division of Planning, Program Integration and Evaluation (PPIE). PPIE’s mandate is to maximize DYCD investments and improve the customer experience and individual and community outcomes through streamlined, coordinated service delivery.

Jessica Raithel

Assistant Commissioner for Planning, Research and Program Development
Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Jessica has worked for over a decade in public service promoting data-informed decision-making. She began her public service career at the Center for Innovation through Data Intelligence (CIDI) conducting interagency data analysis to inform policy and programming for transition-aged youth. Jessica has been at the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) since 2018 where she oversees evaluation, analytics, program design and integration, and capacity building. While at DYCD, she has led the development of the agency's Theory of Change and overseen the launch of the agency's performance management system.

Denise Ramirez

Associate Commissioner and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Denise Ramirez serves as the Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer at the New York City Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD). She joined DYCD in January 2023, in her role she works across the agency to implement strategies that increase access and opportunities to traditionally marginalized communities. She has over 20 years of experience, working with diverse communities to advance equity. Denise earned a Master of City and Regional Planning from Rutgers University and a bachelor's in environmental design from the University at Buffalo (SUNY).

BREAKOUT SESSION 1- WORKSHOPS & MINI PANEL

Workshop A: Economic Development: Preparing Adolescents for Careers in the 21st Century

Facilitators:

Daniel Liss

Senior Advisor, Industry Partnerships
NYC Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development (NYC Talent)

Daniel currently serves as Senior Advisor for Industry Partnerships with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development (NYC Talent). NYC Talent is charged with mobilizing the city’s talent development ecosystem to ensure New Yorkers have access to good careers, businesses and other employers have access to the talent they need to thrive, and that we continue to see progress towards a more inclusive economy. In his role as Senior Advisor, Daniel leads NYC Talent’s collaborations with the private sector, supporting the Office’s sector-based work, public-private partnerships, and business engagement more generally. Daniel is also the current and outgoing Executive Director of the New York Alliance for Careers in Healthcare (NYACH), the City’s industry partnership for the healthcare sector. Prior to joining NYC Government, Daniel worked for the Chief Human Resources Officer at the Mount Sinai Health System, where he was a strategic advisor and managed key initiatives including workforce development for healthcare reform and population health. Daniel holds a Master of Arts in Social-Organizational Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Science in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University where he graduated with honors in Learning and Organizational Change and Philosophy.

Daphne Montanez

Associate Commissioner, Workforce Connect
Department of Youth and Community Development

Steve Towler

Vice President
Employment and Day Services at AHRC NYC Chapter

Steve is currently the Senior Vice President for Employment and Day Services at AHRC NYC Chapter (NYSARC, Inc.). He has over 35 years of experience developing Employment and Training Programs for people with disabilities and at-risk youth. He currently has a master's degree in psychology from CUNY. Steve directs programs throughout all 5 boroughs of New York City, and has primary responsibility for Employment and Business Services, and Camping and Recreation Services and is a registered lobbyist in NYS for the organization.
Steve has developed a top-notch employment service for individuals with disabilities and at-risk NYC youth. The Employment and Business Services (EBS) department helps over 2,000 people a year prepare for, maintain, and obtain community-based employment. Our Supported Employment Services are highly regarded as the best in NYS. EBS offers high quality services for EBS is extremely innovative and has also developed 2 affirmative enterprises over the last decade to help even more people become employed. EBS operates Hudson River Services (Janitorial, Landscaping and Messenger. We have developed into one of the largest providers of services in NYS under the NYSID umbrella. He has also developed and managed numerous JTPA/WIA/WIOA Youth training programs in NYC over his tenure.

Justin Perkins

Assistant Director
Employment and Day Services at AHRC NYC Chapter

Justin Perkins is the Assistant Director of Employment and Business Services for AHRC NYC, a service provider annually supporting over 15,000 people who are neurodiverse and their families. The organization is committed to a socially just world where the power of difference is embraced, valued and celebrated. Justin has worked at AHRC NYC’s Supported Employment program for the past 18 years in various capacities and has contributed to the ongoing development of employment services for underrepresented communities. During this time, Justin has helped hundreds of people prepare for, obtain, and maintain life-changing employment opportunities while providing guidance and support to its many business partners.

Hannah Millson

Assistant Director
AHRC NYC's Employment and Business Services

www.linkedin hannah-millson-08b60257

Hannah Millson is as Asst. Director at AHRC NYC's Employment and Business Services. Hannah led the startup of the Partnership for Inclusive Internships, AHRC's public-private partnership with the City of New York to connect people with disabilities to internship opportunities in City government. Prior to joining the team at AHRC NYC, Hannah taught for 5 years as a special education teacher, specializing in adaptive and vocational skills. She has a B.S from Haverford College and holds a master's degree in special education/Intellectual Disabilities and Autism from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Workshop B: Mental Health: Education + Awareness; LGBTQIA+ and Street Homeless Youth: Providing Services Rooted in Anti oppressive and trauma informed care with a Housing First Lens (Conference RM 6)

Facilitators:

Ronald Porcelli

Director
NYC Unity Project

Ronald Porcelli (they / them) serves as the Director of the NYC Unity Project. Under their leadership, the NYC Unity Project has expanded services across all five boroughs in the areas of economic and community development, health equity, and acceptance and antidiscrimination with a focus on advancing equity for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly LGBTQ+ youth, LGBTQ+ people of color, and the TGNCNB community. Ronald has a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law and is a member of the Florida and New York State Bar. Prior to joining the NYC Unity Project, Ronald served as a practicing attorney representing clients in human rights litigation and advocacy.

Denisse Arcos

Assistant Director
Mental Health Services at Ali Forney Center

Denisse Arcos (she/her) is the Assistant Director of Mental Health Services at the Ali Forney Center, a non-profit organization serving LGBTQ youth whose mission it is to protect young people from the harms of homelessness and empower them with the tools needed to live independently. Denisse has over 10 years of experience working with LGBTQ youth in New York City and in her current role, helps to run AFC's mental health program, which provides psychiatric services, as well as therapy, art therapy and intensive case management to clients 16-24.

Sebastien Vante

Associate Vice President
Safe Horizon

Sebastien Vante is the National Community Health worker Advisor for Wellness Equity Alliance a Public Health Startup aimed at addressing social determinants of health and is the Associate Vice President of Street work Programs at Safe Horizon as part of the nation’s largest victim services advocacy organization. Safe Horizon Street work Project delivers comprehensive case management, daytime respite, and crisis shelter services for thousands of Runaway and Homeless Youths in NYC each year. Using client-centered practice, trauma-informed care, and harm reduction frameworks, Sebastien has nearly 15 years of experience working with juvenile justice system involved and at-risk individuals, LGBTQIA communities, and unaccompanied, chronically unhoused youths. Sebastien has served in the field of HIV Prevention and Reproductive Health as facilitator of evidence-based interventions on federal, state, and local levels, including the NYSDOH, AIDS Institute, ACS, and the CDC. Sebastien is currently responsible for carrying out the implementation of the Play Sure Network 2.0 initiative in collaboration with the DOHMH and affiliates in New York City. Offering wrap around services for vulnerable youths, Sebastien has developed and conducted numerous health and wellness groups at Street work Project and has partnered with agencies and local CBOs to promote increased sexual health and HIV prevention education and practices within the RHY (Runaway Homeless Youth) community.

Tamara J. Amoah-Awuah M.S. Mphil

Senior Director, Street work Uptown Drop-In 
Safe Horizon

I was born in raised in Brooklyn, NY and I joined Safe Horizon in 2022 and received my bachelor's in criminal justice and went on to obtain a master's in counseling as well as a master's in human and social services. I knew I wanted to work in Human Services, and I wanted to make sure I was able to work with the most vulnerable populations. I have been in the field for more than 15 years, and I began my career as a direct care staff member working with developmentally disabled clients. I moved on to work as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Harlem and then as a Program Director for a preventative services program in Westchester. I also served as a member of a coordinated intake to inform local providers about trauma informed ways to work with pregnant women of color. I was drawn to StreetWorks because of the incredible work they do with homeless youth, and I wanted to be a part of a team that was passionate about the work and helping to change the lives of young homeless individuals in New York City.

Tamarata Wague

Program Coordinator- Housing Navigation
Uptown Drop-In

I supervise the StreetWorks Housing Navigators and the Peer Housing Navigators. I held other roles prior to my current position including Senior Case Manager and HIV Navigator. Our housing navigation team assists voucher holders with housing search, apartment applications, completing the rental process, and aftercare. Aftercare consists of help with annual recertifications, interim changes, access to furniture and referrals to food pantries, the financial empower coach, housing legal help, benefits and mental health counseling, etc.

Panel C: Mini Panel: Public Safety: Strategies to Address Community & Public Safety

Moderators:

Deanna Logan

Director at MOCJ

Director Deanna Logan serves as the Director of MOCJ. She previously served as the General Counsel and Deputy Director of Crime Strategies for the office. She joined MOCJ in 2019 as the Deputy Director of Crime Strategies, and coordinated the efforts of courts, DOC, CHS, DSS, DOF and NYPD to meet the requirements of the City’s Criminal Justice Reform Act. Prior to joining MOCJ she worked with DA Darcel Clark to design, establish and supervise the Rikers Island Prosecution Bureau. Prior to her work in the Bronx, Deanna served as the Assistant Commissioner at the New York City Department of Correction (DOC), where she worked to reform and strengthen internal discipline. The first eight years of Deanna’s career was spent in public service as an Assistant District Attorney in the Office of the New York County District Attorney (DANY). After leaving DANY, she joined the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) as a litigator addressing misconduct issues. She eventually became the Managing Director of Rule Development at the NYSE responsible for enforcing the rules that govern the markets and impact the industry while representing the NYSE before the Securities and Exchange Commission. After NYSE, she spent a short time at Barclays Capital Market Makers working as the Director of Compliance on the trading Floor. Deanna returned to public service when she joined the DOC. Deanna holds a BA in political science from Boston University and earned her J.D. at New York University School of Law.

Andre T. Mitchell

Co-Chair - Gun Violence Prevention Task Force
Founder of Man Up Inc

A.T. Mitchell-Mann: NYC Gun Violence Prevention Czar & Founding Director of Man Up Inc. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Andre T. Mitchell-Mann is the first New York City Gun Violence Prevention Czar, appointed by Mayor Eric Adams. He is also the founder and executive director of Man Up! Inc., a community service organization dedicated to violence prevention, education, and employment.  Mitchell-Mann started Man Up! Inc. in 2004 in response to the killing of 8-year-old Daesean Hill. Since then, the organization has become a recognized 501(c)3 nonprofit, adopting the "Cure Violence" model in 2009 and contributing significantly to gun violence reduction in NYC. He co-architected the NYC Crisis Management System and served on the NYC Task Force on Gun Violence.

Panelists:

Dr. Clifford Larochel

Executive Director, 
Office of Neighborhood Safety, (DYCD)

Cliff Larochel, a lifelong Brooklyn resident, is a dedicated and accomplished leader recognized for his extensive expertise in violence prevention and community safety. As the new Executive Director of the Office of Neighborhood Safety at the New York City (NYC) Department of Youth and Community Development, Cliff is responsible for developing and implementing innovative neighborhood safety solutions and advising on long-term violence-reduction strategies. With a significant tenure as the Director of Violence Prevention Initiatives at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), Cliff consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to formulating and executing comprehensive, community-centric strategies. In his previous position, Cliff played a pivotal role in shaping citywide initiatives, significantly contributing to the Mayor's Gun Violence Prevention Taskforce and actively participating in the crafting of the NYC Blueprint for Community Safety. As a co-author of DOHMH’s Community Violence Prevention Framework, his leadership played a crucial role in steering the agency's multi-sectoral approach to violence prevention, highlighting his steadfast dedication to cultivating safer communities.

Kevin Livingston

Founder & Executive Director
100 SUITS

Kevin Livingston, Founder and CEO of 100Suits for 100 Men, is a New York-based change agent, visionary, philanthropist, speaker, and creative. Hailing from Southeast Queens, the ambitious pioneer facilitates life-changing services, events and creative solutions for the betterment of community health and wealth. In addition, Kevin leverages his dynamic expertise and resources to manage 100Suits LLC and Henry Clayton Group Inc., a consulting firm. Since 2011, Kevin has led the honorable charge of suiting 150,000 New Yorkers in need of business attire, including youth, parolees, and low-income communities. Today, Kevin has expanded his empire throughout five offices nationally. Under his leadership, 100suits launched a $750,000 workplace development program called “Empower Queens” and spearheaded a $2 million investment in the Department of Education. Kevin further amplifies his mission through media partnerships, featured appearances, and documentaries aired in Japan, Germany and France. A community hero, Kevin champions for mental health, workplace development, youth education, financial literacy, criminal justice reform, prison reform, and more.

Al Mathieu

Chief Executive Officer
Brownsville Think Tank Matters Inc.

Al Mathieu, a Brownsville native is currently the sole proprietor of Black Success Unisex II. While being employed as an apprentice at Black Success Barbershop1993, Mr. Mathieu not only studied and practiced the art of Barbering but also had the insight to learn the business aspect of Barbering. Within three years of completing his apprenticeship and obtaining his Apprentice’s License in Barbering, Mr. Mathieu positioned himself professionally and financially to open Black Success Unisex II 1996, While learning the business of Barbering, in the year 2000, Mr. Mathieu obtained his Master barbering license. Mr. Mathieu understood the importance of Real Estate and its value to a Barber. As a Barbershop owner himself, Mr. Mathieu decided to stay with the theme of “Black Success” and committed to creating a Barbershop culture that celebrated black and brown pride and encouraged both barbers and patrons to be good citizens, be economically savvy, the importance of being health conscious, and to be family and community oriented. In 2014, Mr. Mathieu founded and is now serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Brownsville Think Tank Matters Inc. (B.T.T.M.).

Shonte M. Armstrong

Mngr. of Operations & Special Initiatives
Youth Engagement & Prevention Mosholu Montefiore Community Center’s

Shonté Armstrong is a Bronx native with Panamanian and Bajan roots. She currently serves as the Manager of Operations and Special Initiatives for the Youth Engagement and Preventive Services Department at Mosholu Montefiore Community Center (MMCC). She currently supervises Cornerstone, Beacon and Boys and Girls Club of America program in the Bronx and Manhattan. During her tenure at MMCC, Ms. Armstrong established the MMCC Young Earners Program, MMCC Youth Coalition and Project Fame. An advocate for all things fair, just and DEI, she is constantly looking for ways to improve the culture of her department and the agency which secures her seat on the MMCC Workplace Culture Committee. With over 30 years of experience in youth and community services, Shonte is dedicated to uplifting and educating the neighborhoods she services. Following in the footsteps of her late father, spreading love, helping people and being kind to others are her daily goals. She is known for her elaborate and creative vision for programming and the personal development of teens and young adults. She has the ability to shift the common and often stereotypical teenage narrative, dramatically and with ease.

BREAKOUT SESSION 2- WORKSHOPS & MINI PANEL

Workshop D: Mental Health: Trauma informed Services: Frameworks and strategies to support youth experiencing homelessness (Conference RM 6)

Facilitators:

Dr. Amy Wilkerson

Assistant Commissioner, Runaway and Homeless Youth Services
Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Dr. Amy Wilkerson serves as Assistant Commissioner, Runaway and Homeless Youth Services at DYCD, informing policy and practice to support vulnerable youth across New York City.  Amy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has more than 20 years as a change agent for NYC youth, with leadership experience in the nonprofit sector focused on improving outcomes for disconnected youth in child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Amy was previously the Vice President of School and Youth Programs at Sheltering Arms Children and Family Services, overseeing community-based programing including SONYC, COMPASS, mentoring, violence reduction, work readiness and programs for runaway and homeless youth. Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the historically black, Hampton University and a Master of Social Work Degree from New York University. Amy’s passion is leading organizational growth; modifying, improving and starting up programs to impact the lives of youth, children and families and mentoring others to do the same.  Amy’s specializations are youth development, homeless, LGBT+ and justice-involved youth.

Jeffrey Moore

Assistant Vice President- Runaway and Homeless Youth Programs
Rising Ground

Jeffrey Moore joined Rising Ground in 2013 and has held many positions during his tenure with the organization. He currently serves as the Assistant Vice President of the Runaway Homeless Youth Division which provides Drop-in Services, Crisis Shelter programs and Transitional Independent Living programs for young people experiencing homelessness and housing instability.
In addition, Jeffrey is an experienced facilitator as he is certified in multiple trauma models, as well as Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI), a model developed by Cornell University to support young people and staff in crisis situations. He also has experience consulting with organizations such as the National Urban League and the YMCA to implement STEM education programs and models to engage at risk youth across the United States. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York. Jeffrey has a bachelor's in criminal justice from SUNY Buffalo State University, and a master's in public administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Jeffrey is also a New York Community Trust Leadership Fellow.

Rose Torcel

Program Manager- Roadmap to Adulthood
Rising Ground

Rose Torcel joined Rising Ground in May 2023 as the RHY Peer Support Manager. Prior to her current role, she was with Sheltering Arms Children and Family Services, where she gained extensive experience working with homeless youth. With her seven years of experience working with youth aged 5-24, Rose has developed a robust background in various capacities including Youth Peer Advocate, Case Manager in the Rapid Rehousing Program, Residential Counselor, Social Worker Intern providing psychotherapy to young adults, and School Conflict Mediation Social Worker. In addition to her full-time position with Rising Ground, Rose also provides part-time family therapy to the migrant population. She is deeply passionate about peer work and the value of lived experience when working with runaway and homeless youth (RHY). This is driven by her five years of utilizing RHY services, which also motivated her to pursue a career in social work. Rose is a Haitian American, born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Far Rockaway, New York. Rose holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in social work from Hunter College. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, spending time with her dog, and cooking her cultural food.

Workshop E: Economic Development: Addressing Poverty through Economic Strategies: A Community Development Approach.

Lead Facilitator/ Moderator:

Grace C. Bonilla

Chief Executive Officer
United Way of New York City

Grace C. Bonilla, Esq. is a distinguished leader with extensive experience in the nonprofit and public sectors. She has served as the President and CEO of United Way of New York City (UWNYC) since July 2022. In her role, Grace is dedicated to advancing the organization's mission to support the diverse communities of New York City, actively working to ensure that low-income and underinsured New Yorkers have access to preventative healthcare, educational resources, and community support.  Prior to her role at UWNYC, Grace held leadership positions across the nonprofit sector, including Senior Vice President for Latin America at Covenant House International (CHI), where she addressed the root causes of child homelessness across multiple countries.  Grace has garnered prestigious awards and honors, including induction into the City Limits Hall of Fame in 2023, being named in the City and State Power 100 2023, receiving the City and State 2023 Above & Beyond: Women award and delivering the keynote address at this year’s Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Annual Not-For-Profit Summit. She is a lifelong New Yorker, holding a JD from Brooklyn Law School, and remains deeply committed to shaping policies that address the challenges to achieving economic justice and equity for all New Yorkers.

Facilitators/ Panelists:

Johnny Celestin

Executive Director
NYC Mayor’s Office of Nonprofits

Johnny Celestin brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience across the private, public, philanthropic, and nonprofit sectors to the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services. Celestin’s proven track record includes driving strategic responses to the needs of human services organizations, such as the development and delivery of capacity-building programs to improve operational efficiencies. Before this role, Celestin served at the New York City Mayor’s Office of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) as deputy director. During his tenure, Celestin developed policies to expand M/WBE opportunities and spearheaded strategic planning to streamline the delivery of services. Before joining city government, Celestin worked extensively across the nonprofit sector, including at the Robin Hood Foundation, Atlantic Philanthropies, Haitian Center for Leadership and Excellence, Haitian Fund for Innovation and Reconstruction, and the Clinton Foundation. Celestin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration at Iona University and a master's degree in international Affairs at the New School University.

Calvin Brown

Deputy Commissioner for Neighborhood Development
NYC Department of Small Business Services

Calvin Brown - Calvin T. Brown is the Deputy Commissioner for Neighborhood Development at the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS). In this role, he manages three program areas – Neighborhood Planning, Capacity Building, and Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) - that are aimed at assisting in the creation and support of community-based development organizations (CBDOs) advancing the growth of commercial districts across the five boroughs.  Calvin has a B.A. in Urban Studies and a master's in urban planning from CUNY Hunter College, and a Ph.D. in Urban and Public Policy from the Milano School of International Affairs, Management, and Urban Policy.

Damaris Rodriguez

Program Director Economic Development Program
Dominican Women’s Development Center Inc

Damaris Rodriguez is a first-generation college graduate born and raised in Washington Heights. She has a master’s degree in public administration from Baruch College and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Leo University. Her professional background includes working in corporate to non-profit organizations in areas such as finance, counseling, and education. She has had the privilege of working at different capacities in various organizations that give back to the community, such as, The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, Counseling in Schools and is now the Director of the Economic Development Program at the Dominican Women’s Development Center. Her goal in the program is to create equal economic opportunities in the Washington Heights / Inwood Community to help close the socio-economic disparities that currently exist. Her passion is to help low-income families find opportunities and resources to help them achieve their dreams.

Marciely Alvarado

Program Assistant, Economic Development Program
Dominican Women’s Development Center Inc

Marciely Alvarado is a proud native new yorker born and raised in Washington Heights. She graduated from Buffalo State University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in psychology. She currently works as a Program Assistant in the Economic Development Program at the Dominican Women’s Development Center. Her professional experience ranges from mentoring individuals with intellectual disabilities as well as managing and coordinating program activities. She designs programs that meet the economic needs of the community as well as offers accessible opportunities to participants with diverse barriers. Throughout the program she has organized pop-up markets and industry training workshops. Her role in the Economic Development Program has been a great resource in the Washington Heights community.

Panel F: Mini Panel: Fatherhood Initiative Round Table: The impact of poverty alleviation efforts on fathers.

Moderators:

Scott Leach

Director of Community Engagement
NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)

Scott Leach has more than 30 years of experience working with families and communities of varied socio-economic levels and cultural backgrounds. He received his bachelor’s degree in Recreation Education from The Ohio State University.  Following graduation, Scott was drafted to the National Football League by the New Orleans Saints.  Currently Scott is the Director of Community Engagement with the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (D.Y.C.D.). Scott has a long history working in Fatherhood Initiative programs and services locally and nationally.  He oversaw a 3.4-million-dollar fatherhood portfolio, while helping to coordinate meetings with other New York State fatherhood organizations to promote working with fathers to help with improving outcomes for children and families. Scott holds fatherhood certification with M.D.R.C. as a master trainer, 24/7 Dads curriculum, helped in the development of the parenting journey for fathers, has Presented at several local and national father conferences and working on finishing up his practitioner certification with Fathers and Families Coalition of America, and one of the organizers for the National Campaign Dads Take Your Child To School Day.

Panelists:

Laurel Parker West PhD

Chief Program & Operations Officer
Good+ Foundation

Dr. Laurel Parker West, Chief Programs and Operations Officer, works to ensure that all Good+ programming supports our mission of providing an upward trajectory for under-served parents. Dr. West received her doctorate and master’s degrees from Emory University in Political Science and her bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University in Government and Psychology. Prior to joining Good+ in December 2012, she was the Executive Director of the Women’s Fund of Long Island and before that, the Wyoming Women’s Foundation, where she focused on grantmaking and programming to support the long-term economic security of women and their families. Dr. West also led the Center for Justice Research at the University of Wyoming for four years where she focused on the intersection of family well-being and the criminal justice system. She has held several additional research positions and has conducted numerous studies on and taught courses on early education policy, economic and community development, and antipoverty policymaking at Emory University and other academic and applied settings.

Derek Carter

Director 
Forestdale Strong Fatherhood Forestdale Inc

Derek Carter Director of Forestdale’s Strong Fathers Program Derek Carter joined Forestdale in November 2014 and oversees the Strong Fathers program as its Administrative Director. Prior to joining Forestdale Derek worked for 30 years with the NYC Administration for Children’s Services. During that time Derek worked in various areas within ACS including the Family Preservation Program. Derek also served as ACS representative in the Brooklyn Fatherhood Coalition. He last served as Director of Field Operations in the Division of Child Protection. Derek received his BA in Urban Studies from Queens College and a MS in Urban Policy and Administration from Brooklyn College. Derek is currently seeking a PhD in Social Work from Yeshiva University.

Robert Dejesus

Director
Youth Justice Network

Mr. De Jesus is the Director of Youth Justice Networks Fatherhood Initiative Program Friends 2 Fathers. Mr. De Jesus is a New York Native who has dedicated his life to public services and building up communities that are underserved.

Dyverse Vernon Wooten

Director of Fathers Matters
United Activities Unlimited Inc

Vernon 'Dyverse' Wooten has dedicated over 15 years to fatherhood work in various capacities within child welfare. His career began as a parent advocate for ACS and as a visit coach for parents with children in foster care, working with agencies such as Seaman's Society, New York Foundling, and Children's Aid Society. In 2012, after serving as a co-chair for the ACS-funded Staten Island Community Partnership, Mr. Wooten focused on advocating for fathers. His efforts led to the collection of critical data on fathers' attendance at ACS safety conferences, influencing decisions about child removals from mothers. This data was instrumental in establishing New York City-funded fatherhood initiatives. Currently, Vernon Wooten is the founder and On-Site Director of Fatherhood Matters, an organization under United Activities Unlimited based in Staten Island but serving all five boroughs. Key programs include Dads 2 Grads: An after-school mentorship program aimed at grade and middle school boys who face academic, self-esteem, or behavioral challenges. This program provides male influence and support to help these boys develop personally and achieve their future goals. Staten Island Provider Outreach Project (SIPOP): A coalition of providers that offers co-parenting and family educational workshops and events. This initiative aims to enhance relationships between service agencies and the community while providing accessible resources for parents and their children. Looking ahead, Mr. Wooten is also working on several future endeavors, including the relaunch of the Fatherhood Matters digital app for providers and clients, the dads on Deck Neighborhood Safety Initiative, and the Strategic Plan for the Mayoral Office of Fatherhood and Families.