Oak Foundation–Urban Family Center Anniversary Celebration
By Henry Street Settlement
One year ago, an innovative pilot program debuted at Henry Street’s Urban Family Center (UFC), one designed to help the shelter residents find jobs. By all accounts, the initiative has been an overwhelming success, and on April 17 nearly 50 individuals — Henry Street staff, clients and employers — gathered at the UFC to celebrate its first birthday.
The initiative is funded through a three-year $450,000 grant by the Oak Foundation, a new funder based overseas, in the United Kingdom. The program already has generated a considerable amount of interest in key stakeholders, including New York City officials, and the program has the potential for local, state, national and even international replication.
“Four years ago, we conceived the idea of bringing employment services onsite to make them more personalized, more focused and more accessible,” said Geniria Armstrong, Deputy Program Officer of Transitional and Supportive Housing, as she addressed the group. “And today, we’re here, standing strong. We are successful because of you. You participated and took advantage of the services.”
Diane Rubin, Chief Program Officer at Henry Street, congratulated the 40 clients who have gotten jobs as a result of the program and the others in attendance on their way to securing employment.
“What’s special about this program is you,” David Garza, Henry Street’s Executive Director, said to audience members. “Employment is the cornerstone of civilization. Everyone talks about food, shelter and clothing. But how do you get those? With a job!” he said.
Garza congratulated the participants and, noting their courage to take the steps needed to change their lives, he said to them, “You are an inspiration. I consider you all heroes.”
Continuing on the congratulatory pathway, Elise Tavares, Employment Coordinator, told the group, “You really excelled to help us succeed.” She noted that 101 clients have completed the program’s workshop series. Six have moved from the shelter to permanent housing.
Doug Rochelle, owner of the 7A Café, an upscale diner in the East Village, attended the event, and shared a table with Elissa Guest and her three-year-old daughter Arianna. Guest, who is a waitress at the café, got her job through the new program.
The event’s emcee was Renee Best, UFC Employment Manager, and the celebration was made even memorable because it was the first event held in the UFC’s community room following its renovation from damages suffered in Hurricane Sandy.
