C
The Magazine of Community Access
HOME
SWEET HOME: Meet Tenants Patrice White and Celestino Quinones
OUR ROADMAP to Homes for 8,000 People ALLYSHIP & ACCESS
Staff Members Maryam Abdulmumin & Bob Shary Reflect on Their Service
BUILDING
DIGITAL EQUITY for All
BACK TO THE FUTURE: City Block in East Village Where Community Access’ Roots Were Formed to Become Largest New Construction of Affordable and Supportive Housing in Manhattan
Everette Taylor CEO of Kickstarter
Shares his story of being homeless as a child and how this experience has fueled his passion to make the world a better place for everyone.
WELCOME
Dear Friends,
They say that age is just a number. But when you’re a nonprofit organization like Community Access that just celebrated its fifth decade of service, this milestone is so much more than a number.
It is a moment to reflect on our origins and our journey over the decades, as well as a testament to the thousands of people who have been part of these last 50 years—current and former tenants and program participants, staff, friends, and supporters.
For the people we serve, we are a resource, advocate, and ally to support people in moving forward with their lives—free from the often coercive and harmful practices of the mental health system. Our founder, Fred Hartmann, knew firsthand how psychiatric institutions could harm those they were intended to serve. He was passionate about the need for community-based alternatives for people who had cycled in and out of psychiatric institutions, and he understood the importance of stable and affordable housing.
Our work is rooted in human rights and the knowledge that people are experts in their own lives. Our job is to listen, to understand their lived experiences—what helps them and what has harmed them—and to move forward together toward a better future. When Steve Coe hired Howie the Harp in 1993, it was a pivotal moment in our evolution—planting a stake in the ground marking the importance of peer expertise. When we adopted Housing First and Harm Reduction as guiding principles in the early 2000s, it was another critical moment for Community Access—affirming our commitment to meeting people where they are. Today, we are on the cusp of opening an intensive residential crisis support program in the Lower East Side—an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization for people with acute mental health needs. This program is another link in the chain to the vision of our founders.
These 50 years and the pages of this magazine are full of stories... Stories like those of Rochelle Rosa, who credits stable housing with helping her pursue other life goals, like running the New York City Marathon three times and adopting her beloved dog and cat; Sophia Miller, a mother of two who
just graduated with her Associate’s degree in June; Phyllis Fisher who completed her high school diploma when she was in her 60s; and Prince Powell who was able to reconnect with his grown children after finding secure housing.
We extend sincere appreciation to our staff, board members and trustees, and supporters. Without you, our work would not be possible. Together, we are carrying forth the vision that was established in 1974, and we are fulfilling a promise of our name, nurturing community and access
While we celebrate five decades of service, we know that there is still so much work to do. A lot has changed, but not enough. NYC’s mental health system remains too hard to navigate—fraught with roadblocks that prevent people from accessing quality, voluntary, community-based mental health care. Too many people living with mental health concerns cannot access services when they need them. The NYPD remains the de facto responders to mental health crises. Not enough resources are being devoted to affordable and supportive housing development, the solution to the housing crisis that our city is facing.
We will keep fighting the good fight, one day at a time, pushing systems to be more inclusive, more responsive, more accessible. I am excited about what comes next for Community Access as we move forward with our commitments to accelerate housing development, enhance community integration, and increase our thought leadership and advocacy.
With deep gratitude to you for being a part of this journey,
Cal Hedigan Chief Executive Officer
In celebration of our Golden Anniversary, we kicked off a story-telling series: “50 Years, 50 Stories.” We invite you to take a look, watch, and listen to the reminiscences and memories from tenants, current and former staff, board members, and others who are a part of our history—and our future.
www.instagram.com/ communityaccessinc
Scan this QR Code to watch the series on YouTube.
Ana Morán
Jose Rodriguez
I never had a pet before. But when I got my dog through Pet Access, my world opened up. My emotions aren’t all over the place. I’m able to handle whatever comes my way with my dog.
I am a peer. I’ve had many mental health crises throughout my life. I’ve struggled with poverty, hunger, and housing insecurity. These experiences make me relatable, and I feel solidarity with the people we serve.
Diane Louard-Michel
Steve Coe
For me, one of the things that really distinguishes Community Access is that it has always been an innovator and a visionary. in an apartment.
When you understand that people’s behavior is rooted in their life experiences, you can use that insight to develop strategies that help them make meaningful changes, such as transitioning from living on the street to living
Kendall Atterbury
My only treatment goal was to escape the psychiatric system. The possibility that mental health services could be healing rather than humiliating was not something I dared to imagine. Community Access challenged that imaginative defeat.
Hon. Vanessa L. Gibson
Community Access has been on the ground for 50 years, and for that, we are grateful. We know that they represent all of us in New York City, but they are a true friend of the Bronx.
Jim Weikart
I joined as a board member in 1974, and none of us ever dreamed that the organization would become the force it is.
Prince Powell
Working on yourself is a hard job. I had to get up, dress up, and show up for myself. I’m learning that tough times never last but tough people do.
Jerome “Romie” Grant
I’ve been at the agency for 27 years. I started off in maintenance and worked my way up, learning about computers little by little. Today, I’m the IT manager for Community Access.
Phyllis Vine
In the past five decades, Community Access has achieved what others had only imagined: a recovery journey with dignity, inclusion, and choice. Thank you for opening doors—both figuratively and literally—to a better world.
Jordyn Rosenthal
As someone with my own mental health concerns, it’s really nice to work at a place where I feel like I can be my authentic self and don’t need to hide.
Catherine Patsos
I’ve been a board member for many years, but my connection goes back to the 90s when I worked here. One of my special memories was the opening of the Gouverneur Court in 1994, and I am very proud of all we accomplished ever since.
BUILDING HOMES FOR 8,000 PEOPLE
Community Access owns and operates 1,700 units of housing in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. And we’re building 2,400 more units (studios, one-, two-, and threebedrooms) that, all totaled, will provide homes for more than 8,000 people.
RIVER AVENUE
1169 River Ave
Project team: Maddd Equities LLC; Alembic Community Development; Aufgang Architects; Urban Quotient; Joy Construction Corp 245 units
Baez Place (334 East 176th St., Bronx)
team: Blue Sky Bronx, LLC; ESKW/ Architects; Joy Construction Corporation
1461 Bryant Avenue, Bronx Project team: Blue Sky Bronx, LLC; ESKW/Architects; Bruno Frustaci Contracting 70 units in pre-development
1185 River Avenue, Bronx Project team: Irgang Group (co-developer); Blue Sky Bronx LLC, ESKW/Architects, Mega Contracting Group 276 units in pre-development
200 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx Project team: Maddd Equities, LLC (co-developer), Alembic Community Development, SLCE Architects, GDI Construction 134 units in pre-development
521 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx Project team: Mega Contracting Group (co-developer); Community Healthcare Network (co-developer); SLCE Architects
East 12th Street, Manhattan Project Team: Spatial Equity Co. (codeveloper), Duvernay + Brooks (codeveloper), Cooper Square Committee (co-developer), SLCE Architects
A few years ago, Patrice White created a vision board about what she wanted her future to look like, and the big words on display were “A home for my children: Sky’Lee and Love’Lee.”
Celestino Quinones, also a loving father and grandfather, spent years searching for a place for peace and solitude.
Their journeys before landing at Community Access included many ups and downs. Now, as neighbors together at River Avenue—our newest supportive and affordable housing building in the Bronx—they are moving forward with their lives, establishing roots in the community, and making new friends and connections each day.
We visited them in their beautiful apartments recently to discuss why having a home matters so much—and how this makes a difference in their lives.
Home Sweet Home
PPatrice White: FindingHomeandCommunity
For Patrice, home is not just a place to rest her head at night—it’s the foundation for a life filled with love and community. Patrice and her husband hoped for a stable future for their young family but faced obstacles that made that dream feel out of reach. Today, Patrice has finally found a place where her family can thrive.
“We have movie nights as a family, incredible views of the city, and I am so proud that this is the place where my daughters will grow up—with beautiful memories of being in a home filled with love.”
Before moving into River, Patrice faced a devastating loss. “I was pregnant and lost my baby, and it took all my strength to keep going.” She and her husband then spent two years in the shelter system. “I ended up having both of my beautiful daughters while we lived in the shelter. It was a stressful setting for my family, but we did our best to stay positive.” A lover of poetry, Patrice says writing helped her navigate difficult times. “Poetry makes me feel free. When I share my work, that’s when I feel true bliss, like I’m really letting go.”
Even during the most challenging periods of her life, connecting with and supporting others has always been important to Patrice. Moving into River Avenue marked the beginning of a new chapter—one where she could find the community she craved, create the life she envisioned for herself and her family, and find a sense of peace she never imagined.
“This is the American dream for me. I’m as happy as I’ve ever been in my life. I’ve changed the whole narrative, and I’m proud to say this is my home.”
— Patrice White
“I’ve never had anything like this before—we never feel alone. The staff here were waiting for me with open arms, and I’m involved and supported. The events and programs here help me connect with others and feel a sense of belonging. I love the yoga classes, and my kids have fun at the holiday events.”
As she looks to the future, Patrice continues her passion for helping others, particularly children. “I take natural joy working with kids, so I’ve started watching other people’s children. Whatever I do next, I know it will be in service to others. I also hope to write a children’s book one day.”
Reflecting on how far she has come, Patrice is most proud of her resilience. “I never gave up hope. I never stopped believing in myself, believing that there was more. I kept going, and now, my kids get to laugh and smile, because I didn’t tap out.”
“This is the American dream for me. I’m as happy as I’ve ever been in my life. I’ve changed the whole narrative, and I’m proud to say this is my home.”
CCelestino Quinones: AJourneyofResilienceandIndependence
For Celestino Quinones, family time brings joy and hope. He loves visiting regularly with his children and eight grandchildren, including his youngest granddaughter, who he affectionately calls “Spiderwoman” for her energetic climbing and jumping.
He also likes to get outside and stay active by walking as much as he can in the neighborhood, which has been helpful as he recovers from knee surgery. “I’ve improved my life through my own strength. Eventually I want to get around without crutches and be able to take the bus and train by myself again,” he says.
At 68 years old, Celestino’s life has been marked by resilience—as well as hardship. He had an unstable upbringing in both Puerto Rico and New York City. “I began using drugs at 12 years old,” he recalls, “But I’ve been sober for 37 years now.”
“I’ve improved my life through my own strength. I like that I have my own apartment and can keep it clean. That’s my space.”
— Celestino Quinones
In adulthood, Celestino spent nearly four years in the shelter system. He wanted to move out into a more permanent setting, but none of the options were quite right. ”They wanted to put me in a home for seniors or send me to another state with a roommate, but I wasn’t going there.”
When he learned about Community Access housing, he was reluctant at first. “I thought it would be just like a shelter. But when I met the staff, I decided to give it a chance. I told myself I’d try it for a month, and if I didn’t like it, I’d go back.” Thankfully, River has been a positive change. “I like that I have my own apartment and can keep it clean. That’s my space,” he says.
Celestino also appreciates the sense of community. “If I need something, I can go to my case manager who is always there for me, checking in on me and making sure I’m doing well.”
Looking back on his life, Celestino is proud to have overcome challenges and to live in a stable home. “I escaped death. I’m still here.” As he continues to settle into his home, his advice to others about how to be a good neighbor is: “It all depends on you—you have to be yourself and do your part.”
tenants talk
With 21 buildings around New York City, and over 2,000 tenants and counting, a lot of good stuff is happening in people’s lives.
Meet some of the tenants of Community Access!
“Life at East 11th Street is wonderful. To me it’s like living on Park Avenue—it’s very beautiful, comfortable, and convenient. Living in New York City is all about the home. If you have a place to stay, you have a chance.”
— Gregory
“I have a stable place to put my head. I can cook, I can clean, I can do all of that good stuff. It feels really, really good to have a place to call home for once. I got Prince through Pet Access. I saw his smile, and he just won my heart.”
— John and Prince
“When we moved into our apartment at Bruckner, my kids started crying. They said, ‘Mommy, you did it! You did it!’ They were really happy. It has changed a lot for us in life, for me and my kids.”
— Jacqueline
“Thanks to my stable housing, I’ve been able to pursue my other goals, such as running the New York City Marathon—which I have run successfully three times!”
— Rochelle
TThe world was changing dramatically in 1974, when a small group of volunteers came together to found Community Access. People living with mental health concerns were being discharged from psychiatric hospitals into the community without adequate housing or support. Our founders recognized the urgent need to take action and provide stable housing with supports in the community.
Our very first housing venture in 1974 was the result of our founding board members pooling together $800 to rent three apartments on Avenue C in the East Village.
Since those humble grassroots beginnings, we have grown to become a leader in housing and mental health in New York City. Over the past 50 years, we have developed 21 beautiful buildings—$500 million of real estate—which are homes to people who need it the most: individuals living with mental health concerns and families with children who have experienced homelessness.
Many of the tenants we serve have faced systemic roadblocks in accessing health care, education, treatment, or other supports. In the service of our mission, we approach our work with a genuine desire to build connection—one human being supporting another as an advocate and unwavering ally.
We are rapidly advancing our strategic plan to grow from 1,700 to more than 4,000 units of housing, which will provide homes for more than 8,000 people.
It is gratifying to announce that we are leading a team that recently purchased an entire city block on 12th Street and Avenue D in the East Village—nearby the very places where our founders leased the first apartments 50 years ago.
Community Access is the lead nonprofit developer of a team creating the largest-ever new construction of supportive and affordable housing in Manhattan. We’re delighted to announce the project and introduce you to two of our joint venture partners in this landmark housing development— Spatial Equity and Cooper Square Committee.
Landmark property acquisition on East 12th Street and Avenue D set to the become the site for the largest new construction of affordable and supportive housing in Manhattan
Back to the Future
SPATIAL EQUITY
Teghvir “Teg” Sethi launched his community development firm, Spatial Equity, with a singular vision—to build brighter futures for New Yorkers by creating new affordable housing and community spaces.
For Teg, being part of the development team for our East 12th Street project is a milestone for his company. “Community Access is critical to making this entire project possible. It’s exciting to work with an organization with a profound understanding of big projects,” says Teg. “They are deeply committed to meeting housing goals in this community.”
Born to immigrant parents in Long Island, Teg was inspired by his father’s American dream. His dad arrived in 1970 as one of the first Sikhs in New York with just $60 in his pocket. He worked various jobs to support his family—and eventually found success in market rate and luxury real estate development.
Teg was interested in his father’s career but wanted to carve his own path. After obtaining a real estate development certificate and a master’s degree, Teg gravitated toward the nonprofit sector. He worked at the Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation in East New York, where he helped develop 400 affordable housing units.
Building on this experience, Teg founded Spatial Equity in 2020. The firm’s first project was a 123unit development in East New York for veterans and justice-impacted families, with another 167-unit project underway.
Teg sees affordable housing as crucial to fostering community success, and views our East 12th Street and Avenue D project as a signal to the broader industry that equitable housing development in Lower Manhattan is both feasible and necessary.
“What inspires me about working with Community Access is its track record of innovation and providing the highest level of service. What drives me—and where I found alignment with Community Access— is the ultimate goal of trying to alleviate and solve homelessness. This partnership to develop housing in the East Village is a major step in the right direction.”
“The most amazing thing to alleviate poverty is access to affordable housing—it can set up a future of success. I want to reach New Yorkers who are most in need of housing and mental health support—which this project does in a really powerful way. Plus, the views are going to be spectacular!”
COOPER SQUARE COMMITTEE
Cooper Square Committee (CSC) has a 65-year track record of commitment to community advocacy and housing justice on the Lower East Side. Founded in 1959 by local residents, CSC emerged in opposition to the urban renewal plans of the infamous city planner Robert Moses, whose proposals threatened to displace thousands of residents and small businesses in favor of middle-income housing and expressways.
Since then, CSC has led many notable projects, including the development of 10 Stanton Street, which provides 150 units of affordable housing, and the renovation of 21 dilapidated buildings into low-income co-ops in the 1990s, facilitated by a groundbreaking agreement with Mayor David Dinkins.
CSC and Community Access have a long-standing partnership in the neighborhood. In 2008, we codeveloped a building in the East Village with 53 units of affordable and supportive housing on East 2nd Street. Beyond development, CSC also has a rich history of tenant organizing, successfully securing large financial settlements for tenants harassed by landlords and pushing for stronger rent laws.
Steve Herrick, Executive Director of CSC, shares:
“Over the past 26 years, I’ve seen how rents have spiraled out of control—studio apartments start at well over $2,000 a month. Too many community members are rent-burdened and simply don’t have adequate housing options.”
In collaboration with This Land is Ours Community Land Trust, which CSC helped found, Steve worked to bring together partners who would prioritize affordable housing at the East 12th Street site.
“I knew Community Access would be terrific developers of supportive housing,” says Steve.
As the project moves forward, CSC will play a critical role in community engagement to ensure a warm welcome in the neighborhood. For over six decades, CSC has not only preserved but also enriched the Lower East Side—a testament to the power of community-driven advocacy and development.
“Housing is a human right. A stable home can be a sanctuary and a foundation, a starting point to build the skills and access the support and resources needed to achieve life goals. This development will do just that: provide beautiful homes with vibrant community spaces and robust services where people can move forward with their lives.”
—
Cal Hedigan
East 12th Street and Avenue D
Project Details
Community Access has had a substantial presence in the East Village and Lower East Side since the 1970s—from the early days of renting apartments to later building housing and opening other programs. East 12th Street and Avenue D will become our eighth housing development in the neighborhood.
“Community Access has become a real force in affordable housing development in New York City. The East 12th Street and Avenue D project is a major step forward toward our strategic goal to provide affordable and supportive housing for more than 8,000 people.”
— Chris Lacovara
Community Access and our joint venture partners purchased the property from the The Archdiocese of New York
Expected to break ground in 2026, the building will offer beautiful and affordable apartments in the heart of the East Village at a time when homelessness in New York City has reached the highest levels since the Great Depression.
More than 500 units of permanent, supportive and affordable housing
Studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments
Housing for individuals living with mental health concerns, families with children who have experienced homelessness or housing instability, veterans, and frail/elderly individuals.
On-site social services to ensure tenants have the support they need to achieve their goals.
Our joint venture partners are: Spatial Equity, Cooper Square Committee, and Duvernay + Brooks, a women-led developer of affordable housing nationwide. The firm is a co-developer on projects in five states, with more than 5,000 new construction and preservation units completed or under construction.
Cal Hedigan and Chris Lacovara (CFO & General Counsel who heads up real estate development) on-site at the new property on East 12th Street.
Shout Outs
Beruntem dem ipsus, quae libust, quis dolor aperiones et pre, que rehenie nihiti cusciur? Occum et lita sin prat quodit officil laborio volupta tiatis venistruntis consed moluptatur?Et es aut eveles que odipsap erepernat ut rendand elibus.
Hilluptam qui con rendi sectatent quae videliqui que rerum qui ut ea dentent orepturiam rationsed ent expeliqui sequo toriatu repudae omnis velest vent quae nonserferum qui ut eictem dolessum et erum aute sus, sequi re, est, sitaquaepero volenient mo volestios maio blantia posae nostiae estest, que ea nis et dolore peribus eribusam ex eum eatios rehent quam ex essi dolorit fugit dolenih ilitis comnimet eum re dolluptia volupta doluptatur sus rem fugit estemquis aliquatur, volori con nem is ra accuptatur re, simpedi quide demporat eum adi remolupis et ut ut es et archicatur? Abor serro conessit ex et ex et velliqu ateste ne ne dendund anduntibus di coruntus cuptatet que odit, sae quid que doluptiam hiciist, idendit poribust, id quos que quatur?
Volor aperumquas re aditatis explatur, qui intur, enis Beruntem dem ipsus, quae libust, quis dolor aperiones et pre, que rehenie nihiti cusciur? Occum et lita sin prat quodit
Et es aut eveles que odipsap erepernat ut rendand elibus. Hilluptam qui con rendi sectatent quae videliqui que rerum qui ut ea dentent orepturiam rationsed ent expeliqui sequo toriatu repudae omnis velest vent quae nonserferum qui ut eictem dolessum et erum aute sus, sequi re, est, sitaquaepero volenient mo volestios maio blantia posae nostiae estest, que ea nis et dolore peribus eribusam ex eum eatios rehent quam ex essi dolorit fugit dolenih ilitis comnimet eum re dolluptia volupta doluptatur sus rem fugit estemquis aliquatur, volori con nem is ra accuptatur re, simpedi quide demporat eum adi remolupis et ut ut es et archicatur? Abor serro conessit ex et ex et velliqu ateste ne ne dendund anduntibus di coruntus cuptatet que odit, sae quid que doluptiam hiciist, idendit poribust, id quos que quatur?
Volor aperumquas re aditatis explatur, qui intur, enis sequo toriatu repudae omnis velest vent quae nonserferum qui ut eictem dolessum et erum aute sus, sequi re, est, sitaquaepero volenient mo volestios maio blantia posae nostiae estest, que ea nis et dolore peribus eribusam ex eum eatios rehent quam ex essi dolorit fugit dolenih ilitis comnimet eum re dolluptia volupta doluptatur sus rem fugit estemquis aliquatur, volori con nem is ra accuptatur re, simpedi quide demporat eum
FFor Maryam Abdulmumin, a service coordinator in the Bronx, the key to doing her job successfully is knowing when to step in or when to lend a listening ear.
“Sometimes, the best thing for me to do in my job is just listen, not try to solve someone’s problems or offer solutions, but just listen.”
Maryam Abdulmumin came to Community Access four years ago after graduating with a health sciences degree from the City University of New York. She always knew she wanted to work in the public health sphere but wasn’t exactly sure what that could look like. When Maryam was presented with an opportunity to work at Community Access’ Cedar Avenue housing site in the Bronx—a borough she has loved and called home for years—she had to say yes. She describes it as a role that has not only transformed her professionally but also allows her to play a pivotal role in the lives of Cedar Avenue tenants.
Maryam quickly found her stride at Cedar Avenue, where she discovered the fulfillment that comes from helping others meet their goals. Maryam wears many hats as a service coordinator, and her schedule varies widely from day to day—even hour by hour. Her responsibilities can include linking tenants to health
“To do my job well, you need patience, and you need to have empathy. I am there to offer help when people need it. I don’t want to be pushy. People need to have autonomy in their lives.”
and mental health resources and benefits, helping people get to appointments, supporting people in crisis, creating person-centered plans to guide service delivery, and supporting tenants in moving forward toward their goals. Her keys to success include prioritizing tasks based on urgency and maintaining clear communication with other staff members.
Despite each day’s complexity, one thing remains constant: Maryam’s dedication to tenants.
“To do my job well, you need patience, and you need to have empathy,” says Maryam.
It is clear that Maryam doesn’t just talk the talk; she walks the walk. She is beloved by her community at Cedar Avenue. Tenants are eager to explain why she is an important part of their lives and gush over her support and willingness to help them with any issues they encounter.
Maryam recounts a time when a tenant came to her crying regarding a rent issue that would require a court appearance. After reviewing the documentation, Maryam was able to direct her on the best course of action. Maryam also let the tenant know all the ways in which she was available to help guide her through the process. Maryam says that when she sees her now, the tenant always recalls how Maryam helped her.
“It worked out for her. She even applied for school and got accepted to Queensborough Community College,” says Maryam of the tenant’s recent success.
Although much of Maryam’s work is considered “assistance,” she makes one thing clear: she is good at her job because she empowers tenants to live independently.
“I am there to offer help when people need it. I don’t want to be pushy. People need to have autonomy in their lives,” she said.
Despite Maryam’s demonstrated success, she is determined to continue to grow in her knowledge so that she may better support tenants. She regularly
takes advantage of training opportunities, including workshops on harm reduction, de-escalation, and working with individuals with histories of incarceration. Her ultimate goal is to further her education by obtaining a master’s degree in social work, which she believes will enhance her ability to contribute to the community.
Community Access is a better place because of Maryam’s dedication, kindness, and commitment. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of social services and the profound impact committed professionals can have on their communities.
FFor over two decades, Facilities Manager Bob Shary has been a familiar face around the agency, working in various roles to help ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of Community Access’ properties. His journey to Community Access was a winding road that included trauma and periods of homelessness.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Bob traveled around the U.S., Mexico and Canada, using the next college town as a compass of sorts, auditing classes he found interesting. In the end he bought a ticket to Europe to do much the same thing—without a home, but full of interest in learning. He worked in bookstores, in construction, on farms and ranches, and in various industries—picking up a lot of skills and a few diagnoses along the way. In 2000, Bob arrived in New York City with no money or place to stay. He got connected to Community Access through a close friend and landed an interview and a job working for the Director of Operations at Community Access.
Bob’s time at Community Access has included a range of work on the facilities side, from supervising building superintendents, troubleshooting heating and cooling issues and roof leaks to design work on renovations. He has done everything from making buildings more secure to redoing bathrooms and common areas.
“If you need me, I am usually in a boiler room, on a rooftop, or at an abandoned building at a site we are developing, and I will never be insulted by being offered any kind of job,” Bob says.
As a longtime staff member, Bob offers a unique perspective to the organization, because he is also a tenant. He lives in an affordable housing unit in the East Village. The building includes 53 studios, one of which Bob has lived in for the past 13 years.
“I helped build the building, and you cannot beat the location, even if the skyline has changed,” says Bob.
Because of his role, Bob interacts with tenants and staff all over, something he finds rewarding.
“The nice thing about working in Community Access buildings is seeing tenants go from smaller, more transitional housing options to larger permanent housing solutions. I was in a sleeping bag every night for years of my life. In winter, I still use one as an extra blanket. I know how important it is to have a home of your own.”
Bob has also formed close working relationships with many of our building supers. He appreciates showing up when a super needs support with a project and is always willing to lend a hand. “The front lines are where the bonds are greatest and where the humor is the most surprising when things go South. Just know that supers are on call 24/7 for years. It is a hard idea to get around.”
“I am always troubleshooting. If I see a problem, I will find a way to diagnose and fix it. I love being creative,” says Bob.
Bob recalls transforming a disarrayed bathroom at 255 East Broadway into a beautiful, usable space. He used a mix of old, broken tiles and new ones to form a ribbon mosaic that remains there today as a testament to his creativity and craftsmanship.
He has also been with Community Access through some of its toughest times, including 9/11, Superstorm
Sandy and throughout the pandemic. He loves to step in and help when things are hard, rolling up his sleeves and even wading through water to do what is needed in emergencies.
“Community Access has been good to me. It’s a great organization. I appreciate the commitment to having a staff who have had their own mental health struggles—51%—it’s an important part of who we are.”
Whether in a boiler room or on a rooftop, drawing designs for projects, or tackling complex building issues, Bob’s dedication is evident, and we appreciate his decades of service to Community Access.
“I was in a sleeping bag every night for years of my life. In winter, I still use one as an extra blanket. I know how important it is to have a home of your own.”
EVERETTE TAYLOR
CEO OF KICKSTARTER
Shares his story of being homeless as a child and how this experience has fueled his passion to make the world a better place for everyone.
My name is Everette Taylor, and I am not just the CEO of Kickstarter but someone whose own journey has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and a relentless determination to create positive change. I am deeply moved by Community Access’ work and its commitment to transforming the mental health system through supportive housing, mobile treatment, job training, advocacy, and more.
As I have gotten to know Community Access and the incredible people who make up this organization, what stands out to me the most is how Community Access genuinely values the input, contributions, and desires of New Yorkers who have been personally impacted by mental health concerns.
Community Access puts the voices of people who are too often ignored and left behind by society at the center and recognizes that they are experts in their own lives. This unique approach resonates with me, because I personally understand the impact that housing instability and mental health challenges can have on individuals, families, and communities.
Growing up in Richmond, Virginia, my family experienced homelessness off and on throughout my childhood. Where I grew up, it can feel like you only have a few options: you can play basketball, you can rap, or you get caught up in the drug game and criminal justice system. I have always been curious, so even as a young child, I questioned why my family was in this situation and the seemingly limited paths to a successful future.
There were times where I wanted to end my life. There were times where I didn’t feel like I had the power to push and move on.
I saw that I had to be different so I could get different results. I started to see a different future take shape with my first job as a teenager. I was working for a national park nonprofit where I discovered my passion for impact work and natural instincts for marketing.
When I found that job, it was like Beethoven sitting at a piano or Michael Jordan picking up a basketball. Marketing felt completely natural to me. This changed my life, and I saw that I could break the cycle that my family continued to get caught up in.
Despite the stress and the uncertainty of my family’s housing situation, I graduated from high school and enrolled in college as the first person in my family. I dropped out because of financial struggles—I didn’t quite finish—and got a retail job that paid minimum wage to help support my loved ones.
I was making minimum wage, like $6 an hour. I remember going to work and the gas that it took to get me to work and having lunch. I was like: Did I even make money today?
“There were times where I wanted to end my life. I didn’t feel like I had the power to push and move on.”
And so I knew I had to do something different, and I started my first company. It was an event marketing software company called Easy Events. And this was the first of many successful ventures, each driven by a mission to create meaningful impact.
In the years since, from launching an initiative to support children with autism, to creating an app for people seeking substance use recovery, to helping democratize the art world and helping more artists earn a living wage—my work has always been guided by a commitment to leaving the world a better place than I found it.
I can say with certainty that my hustle and drive come from experiencing and overcoming challenges in my life. This has fueled my passion not only for entrepreneurship and business success, but also for advocacy and making a difference in the lives of others.
My life has been an anomaly. I say all the time that if you play my life out a billion times, the life that I’m living today is the best-case scenario. I did not have Community Access. I wouldn’t wish what my family and I went through on anybody. I wish we had an organization like this.
I’m so inspired by Community Access, because it is changing lives. Community Access is working to ensure that they can continue to make a difference for the next 50 years and beyond. I’m proud to play a small part in their work.
“Community Access centers the voices of people who are too often ignored and left behind by society and recognizes that they are experts of their own lives.”
About Everette Taylor
Everette Taylor is the CEO of Kickstarter— one of the world’s largest crowdraising platforms for creatives. He is a superstar marketing maverick and business leader who has received numerous accolades, including recognition by Time Magazine (2023) for his global impact, and by Forbes (2018) as one of the World’s Most Influential executives and entrepreneurs. While he left college at the age of 19 to start his own business, Taylor received an honorary doctorate from Shaw University for his “meritorious contributions to human society and welfare for humanity.”
Experiencing homelessness as a young person profoundly shaped Everette’s world view and motivated him to make the world a better place for everyone. As a public speaker, he has spoken in over 20 countries, sharing his journey of overcoming adversity—as well as his thought leadership on entrepreneurship, marketing, art, mental health, and diversity.
Highlights from Our 50th Anniversary Good Neighbor Gala
“As the world battled a global pandemic around us, my girls and I walked through the doors into our beautiful home at Bruckner and haven’t looked back since. I have seen firsthand that the best thing human beings can do is support each other. I know that I’ll never give up, because the future is ahead of me, and I am living my best life!”
Keynote Speakers: Everette Taylor and Vanessa Williams with Cal Hedigan
Our Honorees: Laurie Tisch (Center) with George Poulon and Hercules Argryiou, Principals of Mega Contracting Group
Tenant Speaker: Sophia Miller
—Sophia Miller
BUILDING DIGITAL EQUITY
In a world where access to computers and the Internet is a necessity—no longer a luxury—we are working to provide high-quality digital connectivity, computers, and technology literacy training for tenants and program particpants who need it the most.
CIn this day and age, there is a critical need for digital connectivity. So much of what happens in the world is centered on being able to access information and perform tasks online. At Community Access, we are working hard to establish digital equity for the people we serve.
Research shows that a digital divide is especially pervasive in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities when it comes to lack of access to the Internet, computers, and technology. This divide also affects senior citizens, often impeding their ability to participate in online activities, access services, and stay connected with others.
Community Access has a strategic priority to break down digital barriers so people can stay connected and access resources— both online and in real life. This is especially important work, since the majority of the people we serve are BIPOC individuals, many of whom have experienced homelessness or housing instability. And over 60% of our tenants are aging in place and in their 50s or older. By implementing educational programs and improving access, we can bridge this divide and enhance the quality of life for the people we serve.
“Digital
equity is a deeprooted divide affecting New York City with severe implications for people’s economic mobility and overall well-being.”
— Cal Hedigan, CEO
We have taken several measures to begin improving digital access:
All current Community Access buildings have free WiFi in most common spaces, and tenants have access to a computer lab throughout the day.
Thanks to a $250,000 grant from the New York Digital Inclusion (NYDI) Fund, Community Access has forged a strategic partnership with Computers 4 People. Together, we have provided 300 free laptops, installed 110 WiFi hotspots across various sites, and held several 14-weeklong computer literacy training courses for program participants at East Village Access and Howie the Harp, as well as with tenants at Bruckner Boulevard. These training sessions included lessons on Intro to Hardware & Software, the Basics of Using Google Drive, Google Docs, and Zoom, and more, empowering tenants to pursue important personal and professional goals.
In addition to these efforts, Community Access—separate from the Computers 4 People partnership—has used the NYDI grant to upgrade six buildings with new equipment and install wireless access points at several housing sites in Lower Manhattan and the Bronx: Avenue D, Polite Avenue, Vyse Avenue, Gouverneur Court, 29 East Second Street, and Franklin Avenue. These upgrades, completed by Community Access, provide faster and more reliable connections, and include improved technology for diagnosing issues.
We still have a ways to go in our digital equity and access work but we are working diligently to raise the resources needed to fulfill these critical digital equity initiatives.
300 free laptops distributed to tenants and program participants 60% of laptop recipients were Black and 22% were Hispanic 110 WiFi hotspots installed 14 week computer literacy training courses are ongoing at multiple locations including East Village Access, Howie the Harp, and Bruckner Blvd. 6 Community Access buildings received new computer equipment (WAPs).
DIG EQU
Rozano Johnson was born to Panamanian parents in New York City, where he grew up. He graduated from Northeastern University in 1990 with a business degree and established his own business as an internationally published photographer.
After 9/11, Rozano was diagnosed with PTSD, which triggered other mental health issues. Rozano moved to Los Angeles to gain distance from the city that had caused his trauma. In California, he worked as a property manager at the building where he also lived. Rozano lost his job and home in Los Angeles when coworkers and tenants found out about his mental health conditions. The stigma of his diagnosis resulted in him becoming homeless in Los Angeles for two months before he moved to Miami.
Rozano returned to New York one and a half years ago. He wanted to get back into photography. His psychiatrist, who saved his life, showed him that mental health doesn’t define you but is a part of who you are. She recommended our Howie the Harp program so Rozano could use his mental health experience to help others.
At that time, his laptop had just broken, and he was using his roommate’s desktop to try to do his coursework and homework for Howie the Harp. He was trying to find a way to finance a new computer, so the opportunity for a free laptop from Community Access came just in time. It allowed him to complete his coursework for Howie the Harp and obtain his New York State Peer Certification. He applied for an internship, which recently turned into permanent employment at The Bridge as a State Certified Peer Specialist with the Manhattan Shelter ACT Team 1. Rozano, who was lucky to have his family’s support, wants to help others achieve their wellness goals. Today, he splits his time working as a peer specialist and a professional photographer.
“Having a free computer meant the world to me. I was able to take courses online to complete my certification for peer specialist jobs. This really matters for me and my family.”
“I am a survivor, and I want to help others. I didn’t grow up using technology, but I am so glad I have this laptop to connect with others in a similar situation as myself.”
Phyllis Fisher has been a tenant with Community Access for 15 years. She loves living in her neighborhood—strolling along Amsterdam Avenue where the shopkeepers know her—and she can meet with her friends who live close by.
Phyllis is an enthusiastically outspoken advocate for mental health. She regularly travels to Albany and Washington, D.C. to share her story, and urge legislators to provide more funding for mental health services and better pay for human services workers. Being a part of a community and participating in open dialogues about mental health is very important to her. And Community Access is a partner and ally in her journey, providing support and resources to help her achieve her advocacy goals.
Through Phyllis’ mentor, she learned that she could apply for a free laptop through Community Access, which would enable her to get her message to even more people through online forums, support groups, and expand her social ties and network. Now, she is digitally connected for the first time in her life!
As a survivor of abuse, she helps fellow survivors. As a woman living with mental health concerns, she shares her knowledge of how to get help and support. Sometimes, she just listens to others, and sometimes she shares her own experiences—whatever is needed to help others with their mental health needs. Phyllis wants to share her experience and knowledge to help others navigate the system so they can get the help and support they need, and her new laptop helps her build bridges and expand her community.
DIGITAL
Community Access will continue to make improvements and investments in digital equity and some of our upcoming priorities are:
→ Baez Place, opening in 2025, in the Bronx will be the first Community Access building to offer high-speed Internet in all 154 of its units—free of charge to all tenants in their apartments.
→ New standards will ensure that all Community Access buildings in our pipeline will provide tenants with access to high-speed Internet free of charge.
→ We will seek resources to retrofit all existing buildings to have comparable digital connections.
→ The laptop distribution and computer literacy training pilot was a promising start. We want to expand upon that and provide more laptops, hotspots, and educational opportunities.
DIG EQU
www.communityaccessART.org
ART COLLECTIVE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Stephen H. Chase, President; Dan Wurtzel, Vice President; Ramesh Shah, Treasurer; Mary Massimo, Ph.D., Secretary
Mary D’Souza, Martha Dabagian, Theodore Francavilla, Laura Gould, LCSW, Dr. Cynthia B. Green, Denis Jacob, Diane Louard-Michel, Barbara Malatesta, Adil Nathani, Catherine Patsos, Sean Ramsaywak, Bradley Soto, Radhika Vars, and Jose Vazquez Strategic Advisors: Anastasia Vournas and David Kuperberg
Trustees: John Turturro, Chair; Kendall Atterbury, Jeremy Greenberg, Sally Haver, Ricki Lake, Jake Lang, Mark Reed, David Segura, Andrew Smith, Ariel Stillman, and Andrew Wenner
Roman Serrano The Truck
Mixed Media Cardboard, gems, bottle caps, aluminum foil, and plastic 11 in x 5 1/4” x 1 1/2