First Resident Board Member Appointed to NYCHA Board Victor A

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Vol. 41 No. 6 www.nyc.gov/nycha July/August 2011 First Resident Board Member Appointed to NYCHA Board Victor A. Gonzalez has history of community service feel not only honored but housing resident leader and advocate. housing for the future – the Plan to “Ihumbled to have been chosen,” He was president of the Residents As- Preserve Public Housing,” said NYCHA said Victor A. Gonzalez, NYCHA’s sociation of Rabbi Stephen Wise Towers Chairman John B. Rhea. “I look forward newest Board member. “I saw this as in Manhattan since 2003 and served as to Victor bringing his considerable en- an opportunity to impact not justJourna 350 an alternative member of NYCHA’s Resi- ergy and enthusiasm for housing issuesl families at my development, but almost dent Advisory Board. Mr. Gonzalez also to the Board while working with me, Em- half a million people.” has done extensive work with advocacy ily Youssouf and Margarita López on the Victor A. Gonzalez is the first resident ever Victor Antonio Gonzalez has been groups, organizing workshop meetings very challenging issues facing the New appointed to NYCHA’s Board. appointed as the first public housing for tenants. He serves on the Goddard York City Housing Authority.” said Reginald H. Bowman, President resident to NYCHA’s Board by Mayor Riverside Community Center Board; Mr. Gonzalez, who recently was hon- of the Citywide Council of Presidents. Michael R. Bloomberg, effective July 20, Community Board 7 in Manhattan; the ored by the residents of Wise Towers “Mr. Gonzalez’ appointment will give 2011. The City received more than 600 Neighborhood Advisory Board for the during Family Day, wants to bring his additional strength to the importance of applications for this first-time position, City’s Department of Youth and Com- personal experience as a public hous- residents’ positions in NYCHA matters.” representing a diverse resident pool munity Development (DYCD); and is a ing resident to the table and serve as a Mr. Gonzalez’ appointment follows from across five boroughs. member of the NYC Residents’ Alliance. bridge between NYCHA and residents. passage of a law by the State legislature “This is great news for NYCHA and its “Mayor Bloomberg’s appointment “I am eager to begin tackling the most in 2010 allowing for a resident to serve over 400,000 residents, who will for the of Victor Gonzalez as Resident Board pressing issues facing public housing to- on the Board. As resident board mem- first time in NYCHA’s history, be officially Member is another important step for day, including under-funding and safety ber, Mr. Gonzalez, a retired United Parcel represented at the Board level in critical NYCHA as the Authority becomes a and security,” he said. Service worker, will serve part-time. policy, regulation and contract decisions more open, responsive organization. “I look forward to working with Victor “It is my true pleasure to congratulate for the Authority moving forward,” said This furthers our collaborative efforts, Gonzalez and the entire NYCHA Board Victor Gonzalez on his appointment to Mayor Bloomberg. with elected resident leaders and other in greatly enhancing the voice of all the Board of the New York City Housing Mr. Gonzalez, who has lived in NYCHA stakeholders, to implement the long- residents in the policy and decisions of Authority,” said State Assemblyman Vito housing for 50 years, is a tireless public term strategy that will strengthen public the New York City Housing Authority,” Lopez, Chair of the continued on page 2 

inside NYCHA/FFAWN Teen Girls Initiative this issue Soars with Take Flight Ceremony By Zodet Negrón During the weekend celebration, the or more than 40 girls from NYCHA girls joined FFAWN volunteer Danna Fdevelopments in Manhattan and Lennon-Thomas in a workshop on the Bronx, being a part of the NYCHA/ healthy relationships. They also at- FFAWN Teen Girls Initiative has helped tended a panel discussion with special them realize the importance of self- guests Wendy Wilson, news editor for worth, independence, financial respon- Essence Magazine; Brenda Braxton, sibility and the meaning of friendship. award-winning artist and entrepreneur; For the past six months, NYCHA and Patrice Tanaka, co-chair and chief cre- singer Mary J. Blige’s Foundation For ative officer of CRT/tanaka; and Eliza- the Advancement of Women Now, Inc. beth Toledo, who oversees operations Participants in the NYCHA-FFAWN Teen Girls provided girls and ages 12-15 the op- at the Dodge YMCA. Initiative stroll through the campus of Bard portunity to connect with mentors and Ms. Tanaka told the girls that she College in upstate New York during their provide the support and encourage- wouldn’t be in the position she is in weekend graduation in June. ment they need to pursue their dreams today if she had not gone after her “This program taught me that you ‘Exploring’ and realize their full potential. dreams. “Every success I’ve had has can show off your confidence,” said Castle Hill Houses » read more on page 3 “[This program] taught me a lot,” been because I’ve followed a passion 12-year-old Nia Berrien from Wilson said Gionna Clinton, 16, from Gun Hill and pursued it,” she said. “You need to Houses in Manhattan. YOU now can voice Houses in the Bronx. “I’ve learned to tell yourself what it is you want to happen “Some of you were very shy in the your opinion in the Journal manage money and become more in- in your life and not what won’t, and tell beginning but you should all be com- » read more on page 2 dependent and how to support myself.” people who love you and support you.” mended because those of you who As a culmination to the program, the All of the panelists concluded that spoke out gave others the confidence Resident Good Samaritans girls attended a sleepover at Bard Col- the secret to success is to believe in also to speak out and be a little stron- Save Lives, Keep Eyes Open lege in the Hudson Valley on June 24 and yourself, have a vision of what you want ger,” Deidra Gilliard, Assistant Deputy » read more on page 4 25. In the park-like campus surrounded to do and pursue your dreams and pas- General Manager of Community Opera- Checking the Health by fields and forests, the occasional sions. The girls heeded the message. tions and Development, told the girls. deer crossing fascinated the city girls “This program really inspired me. I NYCHA plans to continue the pro- of NYCHA Seniors » read more on page 8 while the dorms piqued their interest in loved all the events,” said Brianna Flores, gram and expand it beyond Manhattan going away to college in a few years. 15, from King Towers in Manhattan. and the Bronx. 2 July/August 2011 The Housing Authority Journal Introducing the NYCHA NYCHA Board Meetings Residents’ Voices! s the The Journal reserves the right to edit all content otice hereby is given that the New York City ANew York for length, clarity, good taste, accuracy, etc. NHousing Authority’s Board Meetings take place City Housing Because of space limitations, we must limit all every other Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Board Authority continues contributions to one letter per person per issue. Room on the 12th floor of 250 Broadway, New York, to become a more There are many ways to share your thoughts New York (unless otherwise noted). The remaining transparent agency, we with us at the Journal: meetings for Calendar Year 2011 are as follows: want to increase our efforts to reflect your voice. In • Send an e-mail to the spirit of the Community Conversations held for [email protected] August 3 September 28 November 23 the Plan to Preserve Public Housing and the new • Send a snail mail to: August 17 October 12 December 7 roundtable format for the town hall meetings as NYCHA Journal August 31 October 26 December 21 September 14 November 9 part of the Draft Agency Annual Plan process, we Letters to the Editor are pleased to introduce the NYCHA Residents’ 250 Broadway, 12th floor Any changes to the schedule above will be posted Voices in the Journal. New York, NY 10007 here and on NYCHA’s website at nyc.gov/nycha to Residents’ Voices will allow you to tell us what • Send a Tweet on Twitter at the extent practicable at a reasonable time before is on your mind. We welcome diverse and varied twitter.com/NYCHA_Housing the meeting. opinions. In addition to letters, we also will accept • Post a message on Facebook at These meetings are open to the public. Pre-regis- photographs, poems, drawings - anything that www.facebook.com/NYCHA tration at least 45 minutes before the scheduled Board allows you to express yourself! • Send a fax to Meeting is required by all speakers. Comments are When sharing your thoughts or ideas with 212-577-1358 limited to the items on the Calendar. Speaking time Residents’ Voices, please include your full name, If you have any questions, please send them will be limited to three minutes. The public comment development name, address and phone number. to [email protected]. period will conclude upon all speakers being heard We will print only your name and development We look forward to joining with you all on what or at the expiration of 30 minutes allotted by law for on our pages; we need your address and phone we expect will be a positive inclusion of the voices public comment, whichever occurs first. number for verification purposes only. of all NYCHA residents in the Journal. Copies of the Calendar are available on NYCHA’s Please limit written submissions to 250 words. —NYCHA Journal Staff website or can be picked up at the Office of the Sec- retary at 250 Broadway, 12th floor, New York, New Editor’s Note: To start off the new Residents’ Voices section of the Journal, York, no earlier than 3:00 p.m. on the Friday before the Reginald Bowman, the President of the Citywide Council of Presidents, wrote upcoming Wednesday Board Meeting. Copies of the an open letter to the residents of public housing. Disposition are available on NYCHA’s website or can be picked up at the Office of the Secretary no earlier than CCOP Takes Action Now to Preserve 3:00 p.m. on the Thursday after the Board Meeting. Any person requiring a reasonable accommodation Public Housing for the Future in order to participate in the Board Meeting should As the President of the Citywide Council of Presidents (CCOP), my colleagues and contact the Office of the Secretary at (212) 306-6088 I represent the 178,000 families that reside in the Public Housing Communities/ no later than five business days before the Board Developments of New York City. Meeting. For additional information, please visit We know that you have many concerns, including repairs and maintenance, NYCHA’s website or call (212) 306-6088. rents, eviction policy, safety and security, vandalism, and making sure your voice is heard in budget and policy decisions. We hear you! Residents come first and the CCOP has embarked on major initiatives and reforms to meet your needs and better  continued from page 1 be a great benefit to NYCHA represent you and your families as residents. To fix the problems and own the fu- First Resident Board residents throughout the City. ture, we as residents must commit to take action now, let your voice be heard, and Member Appointed to I am proud to have drafted the Reginald Bowman, unite in proactive civic engagement to restore permanent funding in the city, state NYCHA Board legislation to help bring this President of the Citywide and federal levels of government to preserve public housing as a socioeconomic Assembly’s Housing Committee. change to the NYCHA Board.” Council of Presidents, infrastructure and permanent landmark. “I wholeheartedly believe that As with the Chairman, the speaks at one of the The first initiative increases resident participation in policy and decision-making. Community Conversations the addition of a NYCHA resi- Resident Board member is held this year for the Plan to Resident leaders participated in the process of putting a resident on the NYCHA dent will bring needed unique appointed by the Mayor and Preserve Public Housing. Board. On July 20, Mayor Bloomberg appointed the first resident member in history insight to the Board and will serves at the Mayor’s will. to the Board of NYCHA. This is part of a long-term strategic plan focused on repo- sitioning residents and their leaders in the decision making at NYCHA. This strategy also is evidenced by the 77 expansion of resident engagement in decision-making through the Security and Safety Task Force, the Commu- years nity Roundtables and the new Agency Annual Plan participatory town hall process to be introduced this year. of Public Housing NYCHA in New York City We also work to provide leadership training, conferences, office space and equipment to all Resident Associa- tions, through access to TPA funds. This effort is intended to improve communication and the transfer of infor- ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 mation between CCOP and the residents and NYCHA, and to build working alliances and affiliations between Published monthly by the New York City Housing Authority Department of Communications • 250 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10007 CCOP and resident advocacy groups locally and nationally to build our resident organizations’ effectiveness. Tel (212) 306-3322 • Fax (212) 577-1358 • nyc.gov/nycha Through leadership in resident participation, education, partnerships with local and national advocacy Michael R. Bloomberg �� Mayor John B. Rhea ��Chair networks, voter registration, proactive civic engagement and working to improve lines of communication, Emily Youssouf…. ��Vice-Chair Margarita LópezJourna ��l Board Member the CCOP will continue strengthening the voice of public housing residents in New York, and our ability to Victor A. Gonzalez �� Resident Board Member Vilma Huertas �� Secretary deliver the resources to restore our homes in Public Housing. Michael Kelly �� General Manager Lynn Godfrey ��Chief Communications Officer Please join us in these continuing initiatives. Through continued strategic planning and working together Sheila Stainback ��Communications Officer Eric Deutsch ��Editor we shall build a stronger resident organization and preserve public housing for the future. Zodet Negrón �� Editor, Spanish Edition Peter Mikoleski, Leticia Barboza ��Photography Thank you. Christian Nwachukwu, Brent Grier �� Staff Writers Reginald H. Bowman If you are interested in placing an advertisement in the Journal, please call our President, Citywide Council of Presidents marketing representatives in the Office of Business and Revenue Development at (212) 306‑6614. The inclusion of any advertisement in this Journal does not constitute any endorsement by the Housing Authority of the advertiser or its Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. products or services or any other representation by the Housing Authority with respect to such products or services. The Housing Authority Journal July/August 2011 3 Message from the Chairman The NYCHA Team has been hard at work 70,000 apartments going without even basic repairs. trying to maximize our funds while maintaining To respond to $200 million of lost revenues, NYCHA has developed a preliminary services that keep your homes safe, secure and contingency plan, which includes a drastic reduction in community programs, agency- in good working order. These tough economic wide layoffs, renegotiation of contracts and large transfers from the capital to operating times present us with significant challenges. budget. To avoid these cuts, NYCHA, residents, community advocates, industry If we are to succeed in reinvesting in public stakeholders and elected leaders alike must work together to increase public support for housing communities, we will need a renewed our communities today and in the future. focus on the threats to its survival. While we continue to face challenges, it is important that we not lose sight of our core In 2009 alone, NYCHA received the largest priority: the preservation of our invaluable yet aging housing stock. Preservation does single grant made to a public housing authority not come without significant cost. Recent inspections of more than 14,000 apartments from the American Reinvestment and Recovery conducted at 13 developments generated an average of eight work orders per apartment Act, better known as the Stimulus bill. An unprecedented level of federal operating support at a cost of nearly $3,000 per unit. We estimate that it would cost approximately $500 in 2010 helped NYCHA balance its budget – a significant step forward after a decade of million to make basic interior repairs to all NYCHA apartments. reduced funding that resulted in a cumulative loss to the Authority of $666 million. And To address the most severe conditions, we have allocated an additional $31 million the Federalization transaction in 2010 created additional federal operating subsidies that over the next five years, $11 million of which is dedicated in 2011. A NYCHA special contributed to balancing the Authority’s operating budget in 2011. That’s the good news. task force is targeting the buildings that have the most work orders per unit. More than However, we now face significant risks from the proposed federal budget cuts. The 4,000 repairs in six developments already have been completed and closed out. In the President’s 2012 budget for public housing recognizes a need of nearly $5.0 billion to coming months, we plan to add 400 temporary workers to further address our efforts. fund public housing authorities at their full operating subsidies. But less than $4.0 billion We are committed to improving the quality of life of our residents. Together, we is being requested from Congress. It is proposed that this $1.0 billion gap be offset by already have accomplished so much to preserve our communities and support NYCHA’s using local Authorities’ operating reserves. families. Our progress is significant, but our work is ongoing. It is unclear how the federal government will recapture these operating reserves from housing authorities. The funding shortfall could be distributed proportionally among all housing authorities, and if that happens, it would result in NYCHA losing $200 million. This would be the equivalent, for example, of 3,000 direct service jobs being cut or

Johan the Explorer Sails Into the Bronx Correction to June e didn’t have to cross a moat or scale a stone agement processes at Castle Hill, including apart- Green Column Hwall, but a foreign explorer did enter a castle ment temperature sensors that prevent over-heating, in the Bronx recently. Or more accurately, Castle upgrades to the central boiler plant and replacing n the June issue of the Journal, the Green article Hill Houses. Johan Ernst Nilson, a Swedish ex- all interior lighting in public spaces and apartments I“Preparing for Bad Weather in the Rockaways” in- plorer known for ‘climate neutral’ travels, visited with more energy efficient lighting. Put in place in cluded unclear information on how to disinfect water the NYCHA development on July 7 as part of a 2007 with support from the Clinton Climate Initiative, during an emergency. The article stated that iodine year-long expedition to travel from the North Pole these efforts have led to significant improvements tablets, used to disinfect water, can be substituted to the South Pole, using only methods that do not in service to residents and reductions in costs and with one quart of unscented bleach. To clarify, the create greenhouse gases, such as walking, bicycling carbon emissions into the environment. entire one quart of unscented bleach should not be or skiing. Called Climate Neutral – Pole2Pole, the “I asked the staff who work with the boilers about used to disinfect the water. The amount of bleach expedition is meant to raise awareness of environ- how it is to work in a heated environment all day. depends on the amount of water to be treated. mental sustainability. They told me it is hard and hot, but they are very Unscented bleach should be used to disinfect water “The space I visited was a masterpiece in green proud of what they do,” said Mr. Nilson. “They said only if directed to do so by health officials, and the thinking with all details and problems figured out,” this is the future and want to be a part of that.” use of an eyedropper or teaspoon is recommended said Mr. Nilson, known as ‘The Explorer.’ “The boil- The journey will cover 12,000 miles. It ran through to add the bleach. For half a gallon of water, 5 to 10 ers in the basement support many blocks of apart- Greenland and Canada before reaching the United drops of bleach would be added depending on how ments and have a high sufficiency. I honestly believe States, and then will continue through South Ameri- cloudy the water is. For one gallon, it would be one- this is the future of building houses.” ca. It will end with a two-month journey in Antarctica eighth to one-quarter of a teaspoon. The water then Mr. Nilson was shown the innovative energy man- on skis and a parafoil. should be mixed thoroughly and allowed to stand for 30 to 60 minutes before using. Resident Green Committees are On-Line esidents who want to enhance their green Rthumbs have a great resource at greennycha. org. All 28 Resident Green Committees have their own page on the site with information about upcoming events and ways to get involved in fighting climate change and preserving public housing. Any- one living in a development that does not yet have an RGC can contact NYCHA through the website and the Authority will assist in setting one up. The website offers information on how to receive grants and materials, rules for starting a garden at a development and ways to volunteer at green events. The NYCHA Board Member Margarita López shows Johan Ernst Nilson, known as ‘Johan the Explorer,’ the boiler room at Castle Hill RGCs also have their own Facebook page. To visit Houses in the Bronx. Mr. Nilson is travelling from the North Pole to the Souith Pole to raise awareness of environmental sustainability. it, go to facebook.com/nycha. 4 July/August 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

The NYCHA Not Wanted List Grant Houses Resident Saves NYCHA Below is a partial list of names of individuals who have been excluded permanently from NYCHA’s public housing Youth, Becomes Local Hero developments. This list keeps residents informed of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for who works for NYCHA as a Caretaker. “My New Yorkers in public housing and to allow for the peaceful and adrenaline kicked in and I was able to lift the safe use of its facilities. The following are the people, with their car while she dragged him out.” former addresses, excluded as of August 11, 18 and 25, 2010. The incident happened on July 6 when Prohibited as of August 11, 2010 10-year-old Jaden Torres, another Grant Joseph Bowen Kingsborough Houses, 354 Kingsborough Third Houses resident, ran across the street while Walk, 6th fl., Brooklyn playing near the development. Warren Johnson Pelham Parkway Houses, 2255 Bronxwood “I was so happy that I was there,” said Ms. Ave., 6th fl., Bronx Johnson, who was on her way home from Gquan Lloyd Forest Hills Coop Houses, 110-01 62nd Dr., work when the incident occurred. “Angels 9th fl., Queens really protected him at that moment with a Pedro Melendez Carver Houses, 65 E 99th St., 6th fl., Manhattan Andrew Spalding Ocean Hill Apartments/Saratoga Square strong woman and a doctor.” Houses, 930 Halsey St., 8th fl., Brooklyn The boy was examined by Dr. Martin, a Noah Wise a/k/a Noah Nelson Lafayette Houses, 345 Classon pediatrician who was visiting her mother Ave, 11th fl., Brooklyn Sara Martin, the Grant Houses Resident Prohibited as of August 18, 2010 Association President, and was taken to Chris Albert Frederick Samuel Houses, 2441 Adam Clayton a hospital. Powell Blvd., 7th fl., Manhattan By Zodet Negrón Ms. Johnson, who has lived in NYCHA for Omar Caballero Harborview Terrace/Amsterdam Houses, hen a young boy was left pinned almost 40 years and worked as a caretaker 520 W 56th St., 7th fl., Manhattan W under a car after being hit by a taxi for the past 10 years, has three children Arlester Corbett Howard Houses, 40 Glenmore Ave., 2nd fl., cab, Sabrina Johnson, a resident at Grant ages 23, 19 and 10. When her youngest Brooklyn Houses in Manhattan, did what she felt son Joe-El saw her on the news the next Noel Diaz Grant Houses, 1305 Amsterdam Ave., 1st fl., New York she had to do: lift the rear of the car while morning, he told her that the boy she saved Victor Feliciano Grant Houses, 1305 Amsterdam Ave., 1st fl., another good Samaritan dragged the boy was his “skelzies” playmate (skelzies is a New York from underneath the car. street game played by children using bottle Willie Giles Van Dyke Houses, 361 Livonia Ave., 5th fl., Brooklyn “I’m a mom and when I saw what caps as play pieces). Teaira Grant Albany Houses/Weeksville Gardens, 1131 Park Pl., happened, I told the lady [Dr. Sabrina “My son said to me ‘Mom, you’re my 14th fl., Brooklyn Martin, who also witnessed the incident] that hero. You saved my skelzies partner,’” William Graves Morris Houses, 1385 Washington Ave., 2nd fl., we had to lift the car,” said Ms. Johnson, Ms. Johnson said, beaming. Bronx Raday Gonzalez LaGuardia/ Two Bridges U.R.A., 230 Clinton St., 9th fl., Manhattan Darryl Knowles Queensbridge North Houses, 40-06 10th St., 6th fl., Queens When He Sees Something, Christopher Morton Bland Houses, 133-40 Roosevelt Ave., 2nd fl., Queens Albert Negron Vladeck Houses, 14 Jackson St., 6th fl., Jefferson Houses Resident Says Something Manhattan By Eric Deutsch Angel Rivera Wyckoff Gardens Houses, 272 Wyckoff St., “ efferson Houses is full of kids, so I Mr. Jackson was honored for his vigilance by 15th fl., Brooklyn Jwasn’t going to just sit there. I knew NYCHA’s Safety and Security Task Force with a Jose Tejada Grant Houses, 1305 Amsterdam Ave., 1st fl., they weren’t supposed to be there.” So “Good Citizen Award.” “When someone steps New York said Jerry Jackson, a resident of Jefferson up to make their neighborhood and the City Arthur Thomas Castle Hill Houses, 2120 Randall Ave., 12th fl., Houses in Manhattan. When Mr. Jackson saw safer, we need to stop and say thanks,” said Bronx four people in the early morning on May 8 NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea. Willie Waters Ocean Bay Apartments, 55-49 Almeda Ave., 5th fl., Queens entering the tunnel being dug for the Second “When I hear of a Housing Bureau officer Avenue subway, he immediately called 911. doing something that makes a difference in Prohibited as of August 25, 2010 The four people, who turned out to be self- safety, I’m proud. When it’s a resident doing Raheem Fonseca Red Hook West Houses, 450 Columbia St., 1st fl., Brooklyn described “urban explorers” looking to take something extraordinary, I’m even prouder,” Frank Hazzard Van Dyke I Houses, 372 Blake Ave., 3rd fl., photos inside the tunnel, were arrested and said NYPD Housing Bureau Assistant Chief Brooklyn charged with criminal trespass. Edward Delatorre. Gary Moses Van Dyke Houses, 422 Blake Ave., 4th fl., Brooklyn Mr. Jackson said when he was in the military, he was trained to pay attention. “I did what any citizen of New York should have done. I live here, so I have something to say about security.”

“Good Citizen Award” winner Jerry Jackson (second from left) was joined, from left to right, by NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea, his son Saihiem Griffin, his wife Nykeisha Jackson, and NYPD Housing Bureau Assistant Chief Edward Delatorre. Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. The Housing Authority Journal July/August 2011 5

Q & A with New NYCHA Deputy General Manager for Community Programs and Development Sharon Myrie lyn Botanic Garden is 100 years. Q: How have the first few examples of ways we can partner every development?” Some programs weren’t reaching weeks been? with individuals and organizations Q: Anything else? specific populations, especially A: During my first week here, toward a common goal – getting A: I am committed to getting older youth. I worked closely I attended events in Harlem to books in the hands of children out into the community to see By Eric Deutsch with staff, youth and community promote literacy in children that and instilling a love of reading the programs in action and de- haron Myrie started as residents to design and develop involved both public and private from day one. It made me think, termine how we can best deliver SNYCHA’s Deputy General educational resources for them. partner organizations. I saw great “How can we get this program in services in an effective way. Manager for Community Pro- I also used gardening as a tool grams and Development on June for community organizing, and I 27, 2011. Ms. Myrie sat down know that resident gardens are recently with the Journal to talk important here at NYCHA. At about her position leading the Lenox Hill, I managed a team to newly expanded department. deliver services to people on the Question: What interested street, to seniors and to youths, you about working for NYCHA? and made sure that residents re- Answer: I always have been ceived the benefits they needed. drawn to programs and I see Q: The department, formerly coming to NYCHA as the called Community Opera- culmination of my experience. tions, has added new offices I worked in City government to its portfolio – Public/Private before (for Mayor David Dinkins) Partnerships and Resident and also worked at a settle- Economic Empowerment and ment house, so I have seen how Sustainability (REES). Can you important offering programs and talk about what this means for social services are to support the department and how it people. I have a strong interest serves residents? in program development, look- A: Chairman Rhea sees great ing at how delivery of services value in forming strong and long- can be shaped in a better way. lasting partnerships with founda- Needs can change and the tions and organizations interest- delivery system needs to change ed in supporting our community with them. and self-sufficiency programs. Q: How does your experi- We will work with these groups ence as a Vice President at the to find ways to benefit residents. Brooklyn Botanic Garden and And when you benefit residents, as an Associate Director of you benefit the city as a whole. Programs at Lenox Hill Neigh- A lot of great work has gone borhood House translate into into strengthening a program what you want to accomplish targeting job development and at NYCHA? job placement. By incorporat- A: At both organizations, ing REES back into community I looked at the strength of programs we can ensure that all programs and where needed, areas of NYCHA that are provid- updated them to fit the current ing direct services to residents community. For instance, Brook- are working collectively.

Summer Heat Tips n summer days that are very hot, to find the cooling center Onearest to you, call 311 (TTY: 212-504-4115), or use OEM’s online Cooling Center Finder at www.nyc.gov/oem. OEM recommends checking the online Cooling Center Finder or calling 311 just before leaving home to ensure the closest center is open. For more information on coping with extreme heat, see the Ready New York: Beat the Heat guide at www.nyc.gov/oem. For more information on the health effects associated with extreme heat visit www.nyc.gov/health. During periods of extremely hot and humid weather, electricity use rises, which can cause power disruptions. There are several ways to conserve energy: • Set air conditioner thermostats at 78 degrees • Use air conditioners only when at home, and only in rooms being used • For people who want to cool a home before they return, set a timer that turns on no more than 30 minutes before arriving • Turn off nonessential appliances • To receive free notifications about power outages, sign up for Notify NYC at www.nyc.gov/notifynyc. 6 July/August 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Draft Agency Annual Plan Offers NYCHA Dads Honored NYCHA Fatherhood Initiative Chance to Make Your Voice Heard! Now in All Five Boroughs his is an excellent initiative and resource that this community “Tdidn’t used to have. It really helps fathers with their kids.” That sums up the feelings of David Perez, an active participant in the NYCHA Fatherhood Initiative (NFI). Mr. Perez was one of two participants in NFI honored on June 16 by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. A total of 10 fathers from across the City who have overcome ex- For information on the traordinary challenges to become NYCHA Fatherhood positive and consistent forces in Initiative the lives of their children were Bronx: 718-409-8620 recognized at the Dads Matter Brooklyn: 718-453-1296 event at Gracie Mansion. Manhattan: 212-306-3348 Mr. Perez doesn’t just take Queens: 718-969-6240 part in NFI at the Williamsburg Staten Island: 718-815-0140 Community Center in Brook- lyn, he also is a volunteer. His experience in the program with his three sons led him to volunteer for NFI, bringing the program YCHA residents discuss the course of the Authority’s next year at the Roundtable Discussion into local events like handball tournaments and flag football. “My Nheld for the Fiscal Year 2012 Draft Agency Annual Plan on July 25 at Van Dyke Community relationship with them has broadened through the Fatherhood Ini- Center in Brooklyn. A second Roundtable Discussion was held on July 28 at Stapleton Community tiative,” Mr. Perez said. “I grew up with my dad working all the time Center in Staten Island. There will be three more held in August, all from 6:00-8:30 p.m.: and didn’t see him much. I don’t want that for my sons.” Joseph Sawyer, the other NFI participant honoree, is the father of August 3 August 4 August 16 a two-year old son and one-year old daughter. Seen as a leader to Manhattan Queens Bronx many of his peers at the Manhattanville Community Center, he vol- Manhattanville Queensbridge Classic (Melrose) Center unteers as the coach of the Manhattanville 13 and under basketball Community Center Community Center 286 East 156th Street team. Mr. Sawyer’s dedication and diligence led him to be hired by 530 West 133rd Street 10-25 41st Avenue NYCHA as a Program Assistant at the Community Center. Two days after the Dads Matter event, NFI kicked off in Staten Is- The Plan, currently in its draft stage, will outline NYCHA’s priorities including financial re- land at the Berry Community Center, fulfilling NYCHA’s goal to offer sources, rent, operations and management, community service and self-sufficiency programs, the program in all five boroughs. The U.S. Department of Housing crime and safety issues, pets and capital/modernization projects. The Authority hopes to increase and Urban Development (HUD) invited hundreds of public housing resident participation in the Annual Plan process by arranging for a more intimate conversation at authorities across the country to participate in “Father’s Day 2011” each of the borough meetings. Having smaller discussion groups allows residents to share their – an event modeled after NYCHA’s Fatherhood Initiative kick-off ideas and concerns with NYCHA leaders. events. Two hundred public housing authorities participated. Residents also can comment on the Draft Agency Annual Plan at a public hearing on August “The leadership we are taking right here in New York City not 24, from 5:30-8:00 p.m. in the Pace University Auditorium at One Pace Plaza in Manhattan. only dramatically improves the lives of so many children — and their fathers — but is also serving as a model to help millions across the country, as other public housing authorities are adapting NYCHA’s and the City’s approach to this initiative,” said NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea. Deputy Mayor Gibbs: NYCHA’s Fatherhood Initiative was developed in partnership with “Agencies Need to Work Together” the Office of the Mayor, the City University of New York (CUNY), the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), By Howard Silver the Human Resources Administration (HRA) and the Department of ew York City Deputy Mayor for Health Education (DOE). NFI events foster engagement between fathers Nand Human Services Linda Gibbs visited and their children and include job training, father and child outings, NYCHA on June 23 to discuss the importance social services and family counseling. of collaboration among City and non-govern- mental agencies. Through several administrative reforms, Ms. Gibbs has made it easier for nonprofit organizations to work with the City. The development of a new computer system called HHS-Connect allows 12 City agencies to better share information on clients, which allows New Yorkers to receive services faster. “Collaboration among different agencies can be hard because leaders’ and managers’ Deputy Mayor Gibbs also stressed that if instincts are to trust themselves and do things agencies are too “protective of their turf,” they on their own,” Deputy Mayor Gibbs said. “Op- can stray from their core mission. “Unless we portunities for collaboration can be identified by figure out how to make organizations work to- looking at what agencies have in common, such gether, we are doing a disservice to the people as back office and IT functions.” we serve,” she said.

David Perez, an active participant in the NYCHA Fatherhood Initiative at the Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected]. Williamsburg Community Center, stands with his three sons after being honored at the Dads Matter event at Gracie Mansion on June 16, 2011. The Housing Authority Journal July/August 2011 7 8 July/August 2011 The Housing Authority Journal New Report: Older NYCHA Adult Population Growing Rapidly New Drug Discount Available lder residents are the fastest fabric,” said NYCHA Chairman he BigAppleRx card is a free prescription drug card ff89% reported having Ogrowing age group among John B. Rhea. “As NYCHA de- Tavailable to all New Yorkers. This new card may lower NYCHA’s population. That’s a velops a long-term vision for the a personal doctor the cost of your prescriptions by as much as 53% on ge- neric drugs and 15% on brand name drugs. key finding from the first survey preservation of public housing, ff31% reported using • The BigAppleRx card is accepted by most pharmacies ever taken of senior residents in improving the quality of life for a senior center in the • You can use it as often as you like public housing developments in our residents by providing safe- past three months New York City. The survey results guards for their well-being and • No forms to fill out are outlined in Health of Older implementing strategies that will ff29% reported • No personal information is required Adults in New York City Public address their health and social limitations in their There are two ways to get your card: Housing, a collaborative report needs are critically important.” ability to perform basic • Call 800-697-6974, press ‘0’ and request a BigAp- from NYCHA, the New York City According to the report, activities of daily living pleRx card by mail Departments of Health and Men- more than 61,500 New Yorkers • Go online at www.bigapplerx.com and click ‘GO’ tal Hygiene (DOHMH) and for aged 65 and older, and 48,200 Participating pharmacies and discounted prices for drugs the Aging (DFTA), and The City aged 55 to 64 live in NYCHA a whole. NYCHA residents are are listed on the website. University of New York (CUNY) developments; the majority more likely to stay in their resi- Avoid Mosquito Bites – Avoid the West Nile Virus School of Public Health. NYCHA, of these residents are black dences instead of moving out of he West Nile Virus is spread to people by infected with its City partners, conducted or Latino women. The report the City or into assisted living fa- mosquitoes. In people older than 50, it can cause the survey to address the chal- estimates that 20 percent of cilities. Although nearly all older T serious or fatal illness. Here’s what you can do to prevent lenges posed by the large and NYCHA residents will be aged NYCHA residents report having mosquito bites: expanding population of older 65 or older by 2030. Projections some kind of health insurance, • Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks adults in public housing. suggest that the growth of this some have poor access to health • Use an insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of “Older adults are an im- group will outpace that of the care, and many do not use avail- lemon eucalyptus portant part of NYCHA’s social City’s older adult population as able community supports. • Plan outdoor activities during the middle of the day Although poverty remains (mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn) a key challenge, the report • Avoid areas with standing water, weeds, tall grass and highlights a unique opportunity bushes for NYCHA and City agencies If you have questions call 311 and ask for information on to provide coordinated health, West Nile Virus. social and financial services to older adults living in public housing. In the coming years, NYCHA will continue to estab- Another new Affordable Housing Option for lish and strengthen collabora- NYCHA Seniors tions with other government YCHA senior residents soon will have another affordable hous- agencies, as well as community Ning option in Staten Island. With construction scheduled to and resident leadership to help be completed in September 2012, Markham Gardens Manor will build a sustainable strategy to set aside 19 of the 79 mixed-income units for current Staten Island improve the quality of life of all NYCHA residents 62 or older. Residents will have access to the older New Yorkers. 6,000 square foot recreational center. Markham Gardens Manor will To read the full report, be the second development that NYCHA has completed through go to NYCHA’s website at the HUD Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program. www.nyc.gov/nycha. Council Towers VI at Pomonok Houses in Queens was the first ever of this type of housing that offered NYCHA seniors preference. NYCHA Honors Developments’ “Eyes and Ears” ore than 700 NYCHA seniors gathered on In addition, Mamie Upton, a 99-year-old Senior MJune 27 for the 31st Annual Senior Volunteer Volunteer Floor Captain from Justice Thurgood Floor Captains’ Recognition Luncheon. NYCHA Marshall Plaza, received a longevity award. Social Services Director Nora Reissig acknowl- edged the seniors, who look after one another, calling them the “eyes and ears” of the Authority. The value of the services provided by the dedicated floor captains was captured by this year’s theme, “Making a Difference.” And Senior Volun- teer Floor Captains make a difference in one of several ways: the Senior Resident Advisor/Service Coordinator Program which delivers supportive services, such as accessing public entitlements or advocating with service providers; the Elderly Safe at Home Program that offers crime prevention services and crime victim assistance in the South Bronx; and the Senior Companion Program which provides home visits for socially isolated elderly residents in more than one dozen developments across the city. Mamie Upton, a 99-year-old Senior Volunteer Floor Captain from Justice Thurgood Marshall Plaza, received a longevity All 53 developments that participate were rec- award at the 31st Annual Senior Volunteer Floor Captains’ ognized and awarded Certificates of Appreciation. Recognition Luncheon on June 27, 2011. The Housing Authority Journal July/August 2011 9

Important Dates for the 2011-2012 NYC Public High School Admissions Process Youth Literacy Program to promote and nurture reading, writing and comprehen- Saturday, September 24, 2011 Citywide High School Fair Promotes Summer Reading sion skills. Sunday, September 25, 2011 By Zodet Negrón “Creating partnerships Saturday, October 22, 2011 ore than 300 NYCHA The NYC Literacy En- like the NYC Literacy Enter- Borough High School Fairs Myouth gathered at King terprise/NYCHA Reads is prise/NYCHA Reads initiative Sunday, October 23, 2011 Towers in Manhattan this a public-private partner- that foster an early appre- Specialized High Schools summer to celebrate the ship between NYCHA; City ciation for reading is one of Saturday, October 29, 2011 Admissions Test or kick-off of the NYC Literacy Council Speaker Christine the most important things • All current 8th grade students Sunday, October 30, 2011 Enterprise/NYCHA Reads C. Quinn; City Council we can do to give our youth summer reading program. Member Inez E. Dickens; a strong foundation,” said Specialized High Schools Admissions Test “Today’s event is all National Cares Mentoring Chairman Rhea. about you,” NYCHA Chair- Movement founder Susan Children received infor- • All current 9th grade students Saturday, November 5, 2011 • 8th and 9th grade students with man John B. Rhea told the L. Taylor; Scholastic, Inc.; mation on summer reading special needs and approved 504 children who gathered on Sesame Street; The Disney programs, including NYCHA’s accommodations June 28. “This program is all Company; and WABC-TV Read and Rise program with Specialized High Schools Make-Up Test about each of you establish- to engage parents, caregiv- Scholastic, for parents to Sunday, November 20, 2011 • Permission only ing your own appreciation for ers and children in exciting strengthen their children’s literacy activities. The goal is the written word.” links to literacy activities in Note: Students whose test date conflicts with a religious observance everyday life; and Sesame should notify their school counselor immediately after receiving their Street’s Sesame Reads test date, and an alternate test date will be arranged. program, which targets preschoolers attending child care centers in NYCHA Investing in a DREAM developments. They also received free books and enjoyed a carnival-like atmo- sphere that included inter- active reading games, face painting, snacks and even a visit from Scholastic’s famous big red dog – Clifford. The NYC Literacy Enter- prise/NYCHA Reads program Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira joins children at the groundbreaking of is an ongoing project in de- the Harlem RBI DREAM Charter School at Washington Houses in Manhattan in June. velopment that will be implemented in every borough. ore affordable housing is coming to Harlem as part of a “In order to be successful Mplan to bring a charter school to the grounds of Washing- in life, what do you need to ton Houses. The Harlem RBI DREAM Charter School will include do?” Council Member Dick- a mixed-use, 13-story building including 90 affordable housing ens asked the children in the units, the school and Harlem RBI’s program and office space. A NYCHA resident gets a boost from Clifford the Big Red Dog at the kick-off of the NYC Literacy Enterprise/NYCHA Reads summer reading program on crowd. They all shouted out “We are here today because we are focused on students, June 28, 2011. their response: “Read!” NYCHA residents and their families, and to show our continued involvement in building the neighborhoods that will serve East Harlem families’ needs in the 21st century,” said NYCHA Chair- man John B. Rhea at the project’s groundbreaking in June, where Schools he was joined by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, City Schools Chan- Chancellor cellor Dennis Walcott and New York Yankee Mark Teixeira, the Co-Chair of Harlem RBI’s Capital Campaign. Celebrates Scheduled to open in 2014, the 90 affordable units will include studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments. NYCHA resi- NYCHA-DOE dents will be able to live in the units and enroll their children in Partnership for the charter school. Once built, the City will take ownership of the building while Harlem RBI will operate the school. NYCHA will Early Literacy have an option to purchase the housing units for one dollar after a t an event at King Towers on 15-year lending period expires. AJune 30, City Schools Chancellor The New York City Department of Education’s Charter Facili- Dennis Walcott helped recognize the ties Matching Grant program is donating a $32 million grant for 23 NYCHA families who participated construction of the school, while contributions from the Depart- in the third cycle of the New York City Early Literacy Learning (NYCELL) program. NYCELL is ment of Housing Preservation and Development and the Hous- a collaborative effort among the Mayor’s Office, the New York City Department of Education ing Development Corporation will contribute $30 million for the (NYCDOE) and NYCHA for parents with children between one and four years old. The 12-week residential portion of the plan. Harlem RBI plans to raise $20 mil- program meets for two hours twice a week with literacy activities for parents and their kids. lion through corporate and foundation donations. Mark Teixeira NYCELL is offered at Community Centers at Melrose Houses in the Bronx; Van Dyke in Brooklyn; contributed $1 million. and Rutgers and King Towers in Manhattan. “I became involved with Harlem RBI and DREAM Charter “I’m thrilled that so many parents and guardians came out to celebrate their children’s because I believe the work we are doing is truly changing lives,” progress in reading,” said Chancellor Walcott. said Mr. Teixeira. “It is my hope that my involvement can help To learn more about NYCELL and other NYCDOE early learning programs, visit schools.nyc. shine even more light on this incredible organization and these gov/Academics/EarlyChildhood/default.htm or call 212-374-0351. extraordinary kids.” 10 July/August 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

Greening Grants Amsterdam Houses Resident Association Available Now! President no Longer an “Unsung Hero” YCHA residents have another way to get help turning Ntheir ideas for greening their developments into reality. The City of New York and the Citizens Committee for New York City are taking applications for a Change by Us NYC grant. Up to 40 grants, worth $500 to $1,000 each, will be awarded for projects that are implemented and completed this Fall. To be eligible, projects must be posted on the Change by Us NYC website; include a minimum of 20 members on the Change by Us NYC project page; and focus on composting, tree and park stewardship, or community gardening and agriculture. The grant application is due by August 15. To learn more and download an application, go to www.citizensnyc.org/grants/change_by_us. To inform NYCHA’s Gardening and Greening Program about your application, send an e-mail to [email protected].

“Unsung Hero of the Upper West Side” Margarita Curet (center, holding plaque), In the June issue of the Journal, Adolfo Carrión, Jr. was was joined, from left to right, by Elicia Rodriguez, her granddaughter; Rosalba Rodriguez, Director of the District Office for City Council Member Gale A. Brewer; Amsterdam Houses identified incorrectly by a former title. His correct title is HUD Carlos Pellecier, her son; Hon. Gale A. Brewer, City Council Member; and Victor Regional Administrator for New York and New Jersey. Gonzalez, recently named as the resident member of the NYCHA Board. is one of four developments that By Eric Deutsch have computer labs don’t like to talk about had a lab ready to be used, that offer computer “Iwhat I do, I just like to do but the computers were stolen. training sponsored it.” So says Margarita Curet, the Councilmember Brewer then Highbridge by their Resident Amsterdam Houses Resident worked with the nonprofit Older Association. The Gardens and Ocean Association President. However, Adults Technology Services to many more people now know bring in the Macquarie Group, others are Douglass, what she does – she was a financial services company, St. Nicholas and Taft. Bay Apartments honored recently as one of the which provided money to Another 10 Resident “Unsung Heroes of the Upper refurbish old computers and Associations have Caretakers Receive West Side.” donate them to Amsterdam computer labs that She received the award at Houses. Now, seniors at the do not offer training: DeCarlo Award a ceremony held by Landmark development can learn basic Butler, Claremont West!, which called her a “Force skills for free. Parkway, Davidson, esidents at Highbridge to Be Reckoned With.” A “The computer lab is very Isaacs, Lafayette RGardens in the Bronx and resident of Amsterdam Houses good for the development,” Ocean Bay Apartments in in Manhattan since 1960, Ms. said Ms. Curet. “Many seniors Gardens, Marcy, Ocean Queens have award-winning Curet has done much for her are in wheelchairs and would Side, Jackie Robinson, NYCHA staff tending to their neighbors since first being elect- like to learn how to use them, Samuels MHOP homes. Carlos Santiago, a ed President in 2007, including and they don’t have to take the and Tilden. Caretaker J at Highbridge creating a quarterly newsletter, subway or bus to get here.” Gardens, was honored with in English and Spanish; planning the 2010 John DeCarlo themed holiday parties; and Memorial Award on June 24. overseeing a Resident Associa- Dale Lee, a Caretaker J at tion whose monthly meetings Ocean Bay Apartments, was rose from an average of 15 at- named the runner-up. tendees to 70. Working at NYCHA since Landmark West!, a nonprofit 1994, Carlos Santiago is that works on historic pres- Carlos Santiago, a Caretaker J described as “dependable,” at Highbridge Gardens, is the ervation, is a member of the “prompt,” and “hardworking.” 2010 John DeCarlo Memorial Lincoln Center Collaborative, A genuine concern for others Award winner. which NYCHA partners with to and a willingness to help make generate employment, training him popular with residents, who have recognized his diligence and education opportunities for in keeping buildings safe and clean. And he is persistent – he public housing residents on the was the runner-up for the award in 2008 and 2009. Upper West Side. One of the Dale Lee has been at NYCHA since 1999, and also is accomplishments Ms. Curet was a resident. Her supervisors consistently commend her for recognized for was her work on exceptional work performance and a positive attitude. If Ms. Lee helping get a computer lab and becomes aware of a problem, she ensures that it is taken care a computer training program set of, or brings it to the attention of the appropriate supervisor. up by the Resident Association The award is given every year to exemplary Caretakers. It is at Amsterdam Houses. named after John DeCarlo, who lost his life while performing With financial assistance from his job in 1997. City Council Member Gale A. Brewer, the Resident Association The Housing Authority Journal July/August 2011 11 Prospect Plaza Plans Push Forward By Zodet Negrón new plan, as it remained com- jointly will issue a Request for he plan to revitalize Pros- mitted to the revitalization of Proposal (RFP) this summer and Tpect Plaza in Brooklyn has Prospect Plaza. a developer is scheduled to be been given a green light. After The Re-Vision Prospect Plaza chosen by early 2012. Construc- weighing resident and com- Community Plan, a product of tion is scheduled to begin in munity input, as well as the the input from former residents early 2013. financial feasibility of a mixed- and community members at a In an effort to help former use development, NYCHA and planning workshop in 2010, calls residents of Prospect Plaza the Department of Housing and for the demolition of the three who want to return to the new Urban Development (HUD) are vacant towers, the construction development once it is built, moving forward. of 360 new affordable housing NYCHA’s Office of Resident Prospect Plaza was built by a units, a community center and Empowerment and Economic private developer in 1974 and retail space. Sustainability will offer a free subsequently was operated by “We have accomplished a Financial Management and NYCHA as a public housing lot in the last year and a half Education Program through the development. The buildings working with you former resi- non-profit groups Credit Where rapidly deteriorated due to the dents and community residents Credit Is Due and Brownsville A former Prospect Plaza resident speaks at the latest progress meeting for the original poor construction. In and there has been significant Partnership. Former residents Re-Vision Prospect Plaza Community Plan on July 13, 2011. the late 1990s, NYCHA was progress since we last met,” who want to return to the new awarded a grant through HUD’s Patricia Barrera, Deputy Director site will have to undergo credit Margarita López called on all results of a retail market and fi- HOPE VI program, which was of NYCHA’s Department for De- checks and income verifications the former residents to take ad- nancial feasibility study commis- established to demolish and velopment, told the attendees to ensure that NYCHA is in com- vantage of the credit counseling sioned by the agency to analyze rebuild distressed public hous- gathered at the Van Dyke Com- pliance with the federal govern- opportunities offered to them the retail component of the ing units across the country. In munity Center in Brooklyn on ment’s funding requirements. because Prospect Plaza will be plan, which calls for retail on the 2003, the development closed July 13 for a progress meeting. “I have a bit of a credit built and they need to be ready Saratoga Park site. The study, for renovations to overhaul the NYCHA has received condi- problem but nothing too big,” when it’s time to come back. conducted by AKRF, Inc. and housing complex. In 2007, the tional approval of the new plan said a former resident who has “We are not going to leave G.L. Blackstone & Associates project was suspended after for the development of the 360 been attending meetings since one stone unturned until we LLC, found that there is demand it was determined that it was units, which includes a minimum the new planning began. “If I talk to every former tenant to for a supermarket in the area not financially feasible. NYCHA of 80 units of public housing. get help, it will make me feel offer them the opportunity and recommends including this went back to the drawing board NYCHA and the New York City confident that NYCHA is doing to come back,” said Commis- in the RFP along with another and invited former residents and Department of Housing Preser- something for me.” sioner López. anchor tenant such as a phar- community members to draft a vation and Development (HPD) NYCHA Board Member NYCHA also released the macy, among other options. 12 July/August 2011 The Housing Authority Journal

NYCHA Youth Learn How to Make Sustainable Living Fun in a Global Classroom

ome NYCHA youths are program, working with more Sustainability.” Sdiscovering the power than 700 students in 25 “This is truly a unique of global communication cities worldwide. international program, while developing a new This year’s program and students in NYCHA appreciation for the city theme was “Living Cities,” programs are excited to they call home. The Global getting students to think be ambassadors for their Partners Junior program, a about what makes their neighborhood and the collaboration between the surroundings thrive while Big Apple,” NYCHA Office of the Mayor and also considering how Chairman John B. Rhea NYCHA, connects students to sustain their vitality. said at the event. in New York City with Students devoted three to “This type of social students around the world five hours a week for nine media allows our children as a way to foster global months, and their hard work to understand not only how understanding. culminated in a presentation big the world is, but how The award-winning after- at Gracie Mansion. small it is at the same time, school program promotes Each Community Center because we are able to cultural appreciation created virtual designs of communicate in this way,” and communication by zero or low-impact street said NYCHA Educational connecting New York vendor food carts with Services Manager D’Andra middle school students cuisine inspired by a global Van Heusen-Thomas. with their international city. The submissions were Global Partners Junior peers through the Internet. judged by Global Partners currently is accepting Starting in 2007, Global Junior international partners applications for the 2011- Partners Junior operates from Toronto, Canada; 12 program and the theme in Community Centers in Mumbai, India; Melbourne, for the year is the “World Drew Hamilton, Rutgers Australia; London, England Marketplace.” Students will and Manhattanville in and Accra, Ghana. NYCHA focus on areas of business Manhattan; Howard and youth fared especially well, and entrepreneurship. Williamsburg in Brooklyn; earning honors such as To learn more about this Beach 41st Street in “Excellence in Technology,” enriching after-school Queens; and Sedgwick “Excellence in Literacy,” program or to apply, go to and Parkside in the Bronx. “Excellence in Teamwork,” the Global Partners Junior More than 500 City students “Excellent Cuisine” website at participated in this year’s and “Excellence in on.nyc.gov/GlobalJr.

NYCHA youth who took part in the Global Ambassador program got to present their work at Gracie Mansion at an event in June, where they were joined by NYCHA Chairman John B. Rhea (center).

Comments? Questions? E-mail [email protected].