News & Blog

Community advocacy & organization is my BLANK.
I used my BLANK to help seniors live a better life in New York City.

I just graduated from Yeshiva University, I have seen and continue to see many disadvantaged and neglected children who need guidance, streets covered with litter, the elderly peddling batteries for a spare change, the homeless asking for food on the subway, and so much more. Sure I am just naming some negative scenes that some of us see every day, but I wanted to make a difference somehow.

When I saw a posting for the NYC Civic Corps that described the opportunity; I took one look at that description and crossed my fingers that I would be accepted as one of the NYC Civic Corps. Now, about a month into my service, I have received Americorps Vista training, NYC Civic Corps Training, and now my host site’s orientation training. I am a powerhouse of ability and passion. I am ready to start my year service but where to get started?

I have been placed at, The Jewish Association for Services for the Aged (JASA). I found out that this wasn’t just a Jewish organization but New York State’s largest social work network that services over 55,000 clients a year! JASA helps Jewish and non-Jewish people alike, and helps fund many important programs for older adults in NYC and Nassau County. The most shocking thing that I learned during my JASA orientation was that many of NYC’s elderly are not receiving proper care, living arrangements, food, medical attention, and much more.

I am working with, The Joint Public Affairs Committee (JPAC) for Older Adults, The Institute for Senior Action (ISA), and the Benefits and Entitlements campaign. I will be helping and training older adults to be community advocates for senior rights, public speaking, legislative processes, and benefits and entitlements to name a few. Due to the economy, JPAC’s reach has been temporarily hindered, and that is where I step in. I get to help out an important organization that impacts so many people, especially people who need these services the most. I get to take part in making the greatest city in the world, become stronger and greater than ever before.