Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation

Meet Board Leadership Honoree: RD Gentzler | Read RD's Story R D Gentzler has been an integral part of the CHLDC Board of Directors since 2014, lending his expertise to our Community Development Department. Over the past decade, his guidance has played a vital role in the development and preservation of hundreds of units of affordable housing. R D's contribution extends beyond housing initiatives; he has also provided invaluable insight during the launch of the basement legalization pilot and addressed safety concerns within our offices and buildings amid the global pandemic. As a dedicated member of the Board's Housing Committee, R D brings his wealth of expertise to every aspect of our affordable housing development projects. Moreover, he has been a generous supporter of our organization, facilitating connections with colleagues and professionals in the field. Founder of Framework Architecture, a prominent Brooklyn-based firm specializing in residential and institutional projects, R D is a registered architect in New York and Massachusetts. His passion for design stems from a belief in its power to enhance lives. With experience in both small and large-scale building projects, R D has also imparted his knowledge as an architectural studio instructor at Columbia University. Before establishing Framework Architecture, R D pursued studies at esteemed institutions such as Duke University, the London School of Economics, and Columbia University. Beyond his professional pursuits, R D is a devoted husband to his wife Sara and a loving father to their two sons, Max and Theo. Residing in both Brooklyn and the Catskills, R D's dedication to our community and organization is deeply appreciated and cherished. Celebrate RD's work and more of our honorees on May 16th at our Spring Fundraiser! RSVP: https://bit.ly/3Uq66ek If you can't attend but still want to support us visit here: https://lnkd.in/eNsZPEGy

Kenya McCall is a seasoned healthcare professional with over three decades of experience in the vibrant landscape of New York City. Currently serving as the Director of Managed Care at Queens Hospital, an esteemed acute care facility within the New York City Health & Hospitals network, Kenya brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to her role. Born and raised in the bustling borough of Brooklyn, Kenya is a proud product of the New York City Public School System. Her formative years instilled in her a deep sense of community and civic responsibility. Kenya embarked on her academic journey at SUNY University at New Paltz, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. It was during her time at New Paltz that Kenya's passion for social justice and community engagement truly blossomed. Immersed in the vibrant campus atmosphere, she dedicated her time to volunteering for various causes and honed her awareness of pressing social issues. Continuing her pursuit of knowledge and advocacy, Kenya pursued graduate studies at Hunter College, focusing on Urban Affairs. Little did she know, her academic endeavors would pave the way for her impactful work with the East New York Community Land Trust. As a dedicated member of this organization, Kenya collaborates with urban planners and architects to champion affordable housing, homeownership, and business opportunities in East New York, Brooklyn. Her role as Co-Chair of the Education and Organizing Committee underscores her commitment to grassroots initiatives that uplift and empower local residents. In 2009, Kenya made a pivotal move from Crown Heights to East New York, seizing the opportunity to purchase a condominium through the New York City Housing Lottery. This life-changing experience ignited her passion for community service and inspired her to give back to her newfound neighborhood. Guided by the belief that "service is what prayer looks like when it gets up off its knees and walks around in the world," Kenya channels her energy into advocating for the rights and well-being of East New York residents. Throughout her illustrious career and community involvement, Kenya McCall remains steadfast in her dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, coupled with her extensive professional experience, positions her as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the New York City community. Celebrate Kenya's work and more of our honorees on May 16th at our Spring Fundraiser! RSVP: https://bit.ly/3Uq66ek If you can't attend but still want to support us visit here: https://lnkd.in/eNsZPEGy

Meet Our Next Generation Honoree: Giordi Fabre | Read Giorid's Story ⬇️ Giordi Fabre's journey embodies the spirit of resilience and dedication rooted in his Brooklyn upbringing. His connection with Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation (CHLDC) began early, as a student at P.S.108, where he first engaged with our youth and family services programs. At just 14, Giordi embarked on his professional journey with CHLDC through the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), marking the start of a longstanding affiliation. Transitioning seamlessly into part-time roles within CHLDC's after-school programming, Giordi's commitment and passion shone through as he progressed from program aide to group leader and Americorp member. Alongside his academic pursuits, his interest in construction blossomed during high school, culminating in notable achievements such as completing a shed-building competition in record time. Navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Giordi seized opportunities for growth, enrolling in the inaugural round of the Building East New York (BENY) program. Equipped with certifications in OSHA 30 and 10 Hour SST, he embarked on a journey with Menotti Enterprise, ascending to the role of COVID safety officer and acquiring fire guard licensing (F01/F02) credentials. Giordi's thirst for knowledge and determination propelled him to pursue higher education, culminating in a degree in Construction Management in 2023. His advice to aspiring professionals underscores the importance of resilience and tenacity, urging them to persist even in the face of adversity. Presently, Giordi thrives in his role as a field engineer at Aurora Contractors, a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous growth. As he navigates his career trajectory, Giordi remains dedicated to expanding his expertise and contributing to the field of construction management. Celebrate Giordi and more honorees on May 16th at our Spring Fundraiser! RSVP: https://lnkd.in/exXxy75y If you can't attend but still want to support us visit here: https://lnkd.in/eNsZPEGy

🎉 Join us as we celebrate “Growing with Purpose Building with Passion” to commemorate our ongoing efforts in rebuilding, organizing, educating, and serving the young people, families, and small businesses of the East New York community. This year, marks 41 years of service to our community and we are focused on expanding our impact and enhancing our services to better meet the evolving needs of our community. RSVP Tickets: https://lnkd.in/e-3exxv7 If you can't attend but still want to support CHLDC, donate here: https://lnkd.in/eseEgkrq

Who would have imagined we'd mark 40 years of dedicated service to the Cypress Hills and East New York community? It's been an incredible journey, made possible by our steadfast supporters. We commenced as a group of determined residents, organizers, merchants, and Board members and staff striving to revitalize a community devastated by disinvestment, displacement, and a lack of resources. Over the years, our impact has been significant: empowering youth and families through education, expanding local businesses, advocating against injustice, and aiding residents in securing and preserving affordable housing. As we reflect, we're excited to share the inspiring stories of those touched by our efforts. Join us on this remarkable journey and witness the transformative power of our work. Read more here: https://conta.cc/3tuj9Ca We appreciate all of your support for this year's End of Year Appeal. Help us continue providing vital services to our community by donating here: https://lnkd.in/ed6pamt8

We could list many reasons why Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation (CHLDC) is incredible, but we'd prefer you hear it straight from those who are impacted by our services. Eva Hayden, a long-time resident of Cypress Hills and East New York, has a wealth of reasons why she loves CHLDC, and we're thrilled to share her story with you. "Around 27 years ago, I learned about Cypress Hills [CHLDC], hearing about their dedication to helping people in the community," remarked Ms. Hayden. Over the past 27 years, she's seen CHLDC's commitment to assisting residents first hand. Ms. Hayden became a homeowner with CHLDC's help 25 years ago, benefiting from a downpayment assistance grant program that eased her path to homeownership. "Years ago, I attended a program where we received a $10,000 grant, and if we lived in our homes for more than 10 years, we didn't have to pay it back," Ms. Hayden recalled. Read more of Eva's story here: https://conta.cc/3TApWoo Help us continue our wide range of services that impact residents like Eva, by supporting our End of Year Appeal campaign here: https://lnkd.in/ed6pamt8

Jomara Martinez, a Brooklyn resident since 2003, moved to East New York nine years ago seeking peace and a sense of community. However, that tranquility was shattered by soaring rent hikes. Like many New York City tenants facing increased rent costs, Jomara found herself struggling due to a significant rise in her expenses. She turned to Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation’s (CHLDC) Community Development division for assistance. Read more here: https://conta.cc/3vfzta7 Help us continue building and preserving affordable housing in East New York by donating to our End of Year Appeal here: https://lnkd.in/ed6pamt8

While business ownership may appear as glitz and glamor to some, starting a small business comes with many obstacles. For Jessica Maldonado, the journey of purchasing and running Cypress Hills Plumbing & Heating Supplies hasn't been a walk in the park. The reality of operating a business involves overcoming numerous hurdles, but amidst the challenges, the Cypress Hills Business Partners program emerged as a beacon of support for her entrepreneurial aspirations. Read more here: https://conta.cc/4abbU2x Help us continue to support local businesses and workforce development by donating here: https://lnkd.in/eW7AwHac

"These after-school programs are a lifeline for us, especially during that crucial window between school dismissal and when I can get home to care for them," shared Lynda Balbo, an East New York resident and a mother to three daughters who have all benefited from Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation’s (CHLDC) after school programs at PS 677. Tabitha, Lynda's eldest, was part of the program before 2020; Oriana, her second oldest, joined in 2021, while her youngest, Helen, is currently enrolled and thoroughly enjoying her time in our afterschool program. Read more of Lynda's story here: https://conta.cc/3Ndv9yC Help us continue to provide after school programming by donating here: https: //https://lnkd.in/ed6pamt8

While at some High Schools students start off their day with greetings from their teachers and classmates, the students from East New York high schools are greeted by school safety agents and metal detectors. This is the difference between students who are being prepared for success, versus those who are set up to enter the school to prison pipeline - - policies and practices that push schoolchildren into the juvenile and criminal justice systems. Freisy Portorreal and his fellow members of the youth organizing group, Future of Tomorrow (FOT), are working to put an end to this pipeline. Read more of Freisy's story here: https://conta.cc/3uIpud7 Donate to this year's End of Year Appeal to support our youth organizing efforts: https://lnkd.in/ed6pamt8 #youthopportunities #restorativejustice #communityorganizing #youthempowerment #school