In this episode, Diana Reyna — former New York City Council member and Deputy Brooklyn Borough President — reflects on her extensive work addressing homelessness, green energy, and community redevelopment. She also shares her personal journey, from her family’s experiences with housing insecurity to her decades of leadership in public service and community advocacy.

Today, join us for an insightful conversation with Molly Wasow Park, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Social Services. Molly takes us on the journey of her dedicated career addressing housing insecurity and advancing affordable housing initiatives. Sharing pivotal moments in her career, difficult challenges, and how this career has shaped her life in, and out of work, this is a real look into the world of social services and housing. Learn about the integration of social services and housing, crisis management during times like the COVID Virus and the asylum crisis. Molly provides a sound voice of advice for those looking to follow her path, giving insight to those who see a future in the career.

In this episode, Rohini Singh, Director of the School Justice Project at Advocates for Children of New York, shares what really happens when students don’t get the support they need in school. She talks about mental health, special education, and the tough road many young people face when returning to school after time in juvenile detention. Rohini explains why families often struggle to navigate the system and how mentorship and community support can make a life-changing difference.

We are diving into an insightful conversation with Matthew Willoughby, the Principal of 12 Young Adult Borough Centers (YABCs) across New York City. Matthew shares his inspiring journey from business graduate to an educational leader, driven by passion to support young adults who have fallen behind in their high school education.

In this episode, Brenda Ortiz McGrath shares her journey from social worker to trailblazing school leader and discusses how empathy and social emotional learning can transform education. She also introduces Core Kind 360 and her vision for a more holistic, equity-centered school system.

Hanan Abraha sits down with Jonah Gensler, CEO of LSA Family Health Service, shares how his childhood experiences with housing injustice shaped his commitment to families in East Harlem. With 30% of the neighborhood made up of public housing—the highest concentration in New York City—he explains why safe, affordable housing, health, and education are essential for children to thrive.

Alisa Smith sits down with Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso in this episode of The Bells I Hear podcast. They discuss Reynoso's personal journey from growing up in Williamsburg during the 1980s and 90s to becoming the youngest and first Latino Dominican Borough President. Reynoso shares insights into his key initiatives aimed at improving life in Brooklyn, including maternal health, housing partnerships with faith leaders, and digital equity. Key topics include his comprehensive plan to address borough inequities and how community members can get involved.

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Have thoughts about what we discussed in the episode? Interested in sharing your story? We want to hear from you!

Contact us here: thebellsihear@mentorapromise.org

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Laura Lazarus, co-founder of Anthos Home, has over 30 years of experience in New York City's affordable housing sector. She discusses her extensive background, the challenges and opportunities within the affordable housing landscape, and how Anthos Home is effectively bridging gaps between landlords and tenants using housing vouchers. Learn about the systemic issues, success stories, and innovative approaches like flexible funding that help tackle homelessness and provide stable housing for low-income families. This episode highlights the importance of affordable housing for societal well-being and how collaborative efforts can make a difference.

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Have thoughts about what we discussed in the episode? Interested in sharing your story? We want to hear from you!

Contact us here: thebellsihear@mentorapromise.org

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Follow us online!

• Instagram: @mentorapromise