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Our mission is to protect the rights of tenants and to preserve and promote affordable and fair housing.
About HRI
Housing Rights Initiative takes a proactive and systematic approach to targeting, investigating, and fighting fraudulent real estate practices, promoting fair housing, and connecting tenants to legal support. We educate and counsel tenants about their rights to fair and affordable housing and launch investigations against predatory real estate companies.
HRI’s data-driven model identifies properties where there is a high probability of systematic fraud and discrimination. We educate tenants about their rights to fair and affordable housing, launch investigations, and generate class action lawsuits against predatory real estate companies.
Through a legal mobilization effort, HRI lays the foundation for tenants who have been defrauded or discriminated against by the real estate industry, to seek redress and secure their rights under the law.
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Housing Rights Initiative is a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and does not participate in any campaign activity for or against political candidates.
Our Team
AARON CARR
FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Aaron Carr is the founder of Housing Rights Initiative. Prior to starting HRI, he was a chief of staff in the New York State Assembly. In that role, he gained vital experience dealing with housing issues that negatively impacted the quality of life for legally defenseless families.
He saw the good, landlords appropriately managing their properties and following rent stabilization laws, and the bad, landlords exploiting the reactive housing enforcement strategies by neglecting to manage their properties and defrauding tenants.
To combat these issues, Aaron and his team took a systematic and proactive approach by going into target buildings and collecting the data needed to actuate tangible change.
These are the principles that will serve as the blueprint to HRI: target, investigate, and resolve.
Follow Aaron Carr on Twitter @aaronAcarr
Aaron Carr is the founder of Housing Rights Initiative. Prior to starting HRI, he was a chief of staff in the New York State Assembly. In that role, he gained vital experience dealing with housing issues that negatively impacted the quality of life for legally defenseless families.
He saw the good, landlords appropriately managing their properties and following rent stabilization laws, and the bad, landlords exploiting the reactive housing enforcement strategies by neglecting to manage their properties and defrauding tenants.
To combat these issues, Aaron and his team took a systematic and proactive approach by going into target buildings and collecting the data needed to actuate tangible change.
These are the principles that will serve as the blueprint to HRI: target, investigate, and resolve.
Follow Aaron Carr on Twitter @aaronAcarr
JOSHUA MURILLO
DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Joshua Murillo currently serves as Deputy Director for Housing Rights Initiative. He was born and raised in New York City’s East Village. Joshua grew up in rent-regulated housing and despite changing demographics, he was able to stay in his childhood home thanks to the program. He first became interested in local government and urban planning through an internship with a Bronx-based community board.
Prior to HRI, Joshua served as a Director of Special Projects and Field Director for local New York candidates, as well as a constituent services liaison in the New York State Assembly. During his time in these roles, Joshua witnessed the housing crisis New Yorkers from every background were facing. While in these positions he honed his passion for housing issues and supported tenants in their effort to attain and maintain affordable housing.
Joshua is a proud New Yorker and strives to advocate for equity in his professional and personal capacities.
Joshua Murillo currently serves as Deputy Director for Housing Rights Initiative. He was born and raised in New York City’s East Village. Joshua grew up in rent-regulated housing and despite changing demographics, he was able to stay in his childhood home thanks to the program. He first became interested in local government and urban planning through an internship with a Bronx-based community board.
Prior to HRI, Joshua served as a Director of Special Projects and Field Director for local New York candidates, as well as a constituent services liaison in the New York State Assembly. During his time in these roles, Joshua witnessed the housing crisis New Yorkers from every background were facing. While in these positions he honed his passion for housing issues and supported tenants in their effort to attain and maintain affordable housing.
Joshua is a proud New Yorker and strives to advocate for equity in his professional and personal capacities.
KATE LIGGETT
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Kate Ligget currently serves as the Program Coordinator for HRI. She first became interested in city planning and urban policy while taking an Urban Studies summer course at CUNY’s Hunter College as a rising senior in high school. Her interest in planning and the inner-workings of cities grew as she concentrated her college studies on US government, policy-making, international relations, and the criminal justice system as a Political Science major and a Sociology minor at Clark University. After her sophomore year at Clark, Kate started an internship at HRI, where she was excited to work in a field that combined her passions of criminal and housing justice. She again joined the HRI team after her junior year as a summer associate and became a full-time staffer, after completing her bachelor’s degree early, in December 2019.
Not one to sit on the sidelines, Kate wanted to be an active community member in New York City and to do more than just read about the politics and policies affecting people every day. After working several election cycles as an assistant to an election lawyer on various city and state campaigns throughout her high school years, Kate decided to run for the New York County Democratic County Committee at 18 years old and won.
Kate Ligget currently serves as the Program Coordinator for HRI. She first became interested in city planning and urban policy while taking an Urban Studies summer course at CUNY’s Hunter College as a rising senior in high school. Her interest in planning and the inner-workings of cities grew as she concentrated her college studies on US government, policy-making, international relations, and the criminal justice system as a Political Science major and a Sociology minor at Clark University. After her sophomore year at Clark, Kate started an internship at HRI, where she was excited to work in a field that combined her passions of criminal and housing justice. She again joined the HRI team after her junior year as a summer associate and became a full-time staffer, after completing her bachelor’s degree early, in December 2019.
Not one to sit on the sidelines, Kate wanted to be an active community member in New York City and to do more than just read about the politics and policies affecting people every day. After working several election cycles as an assistant to an election lawyer on various city and state campaigns throughout her high school years, Kate decided to run for the New York County Democratic County Committee at 18 years old and won.
Akash Patel
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE
Akash Patel currently serves as the Program Development Associate for HRI. He became interested in housing rights when studying emergency management as an MPA candidate at George Mason University. He believes safe, reliable, and accessible housing sets the foundation for successful emergency preparation. Akash started at HRI as a research intern and continued as a full-time staff member upon earning his master’s degree in public administration.
Prior to this role, Akash served as a Police Officer in Virginia, and before that, as an Assistant Team Leader in the AmeriCorps NCCC program where he completed three service projects related to disaster housing relief and financial assistance. In these roles, Akash saw the effects of housing crises caused by a combination of factors, including large scale disasters, poverty, and disproportionate housing practices in Central Virginia, Southeast Texas, Northern California, and King County, WA. Using experiences and insights gained from these roles, Akash strives to continue advocating for equitable housing as a member of HRI.
Akash Patel currently serves as the Program Development Associate for HRI. He became interested in housing rights when studying emergency management as an MPA candidate at George Mason University. He believes safe, reliable, and accessible housing sets the foundation for successful emergency preparation. Akash started at HRI as a research intern and continued as a full-time staff member upon earning his master’s degree in public administration.
Prior to this role, Akash served as a Police Officer in Virginia, and before that, as an Assistant Team Leader in the AmeriCorps NCCC program where he completed three service projects related to disaster housing relief and financial assistance. In these roles, Akash saw the effects of housing crises caused by a combination of factors, including large scale disasters, poverty, and disproportionate housing practices in Central Virginia, Southeast Texas, Northern California, and King County, WA. Using experiences and insights gained from these roles, Akash strives to continue advocating for equitable housing as a member of HRI.
MICHAEL SHANK
ORGANIZING MANAGER
Michael Shank currently serves as the Organizing Manager at Housing Rights Initiative. Originally hailing from the border city of El Paso, Texas, Michael studied Critical Geography and Political Economy at Bard College at Simon's Rock. It was there, after learning how persistent inequality in this country is deeply tied to a long (and ongoing) history of discriminatory housing practices, that his passion for housing justice and equitable urban planning was first ignited.
In order to put his ideals of building a more just city into practice, Michael pursued an MS in Urban Policy Analysis from The New School. His capstone project was a memo prepared on behalf of the Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice making recommendations on how to improve rates of diversion into Alternative to Incarceration programs.
Prior to joining HRI, Michael worked as a research assistant to a leading housing policy academic, an intern at the New York City Housing Authority's Department of Energy and Sustainability, as well as years interacting with New Yorkers from all walks of life in numerous retail jobs
Michael is passionately dedicated to fighting for every person's Right to the City and is proud of HRI's work to hold unscrupulous and exploitative bad actors in the real estate industry accountable. In his free time Michael enjoys volunteering with a local food-share network, tending to his plot in his neighborhood community garden, and playing with his cat Millie.
Michael Shank currently serves as the Organizing Manager at Housing Rights Initiative. Originally hailing from the border city of El Paso, Texas, Michael studied Critical Geography and Political Economy at Bard College at Simon's Rock. It was there, after learning how persistent inequality in this country is deeply tied to a long (and ongoing) history of discriminatory housing practices, that his passion for housing justice and equitable urban planning was first ignited.
In order to put his ideals of building a more just city into practice, Michael pursued an MS in Urban Policy Analysis from The New School. His capstone project was a memo prepared on behalf of the Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice making recommendations on how to improve rates of diversion into Alternative to Incarceration programs.
Prior to joining HRI, Michael worked as a research assistant to a leading housing policy academic, an intern at the New York City Housing Authority's Department of Energy and Sustainability, as well as years interacting with New Yorkers from all walks of life in numerous retail jobs
Michael is passionately dedicated to fighting for every person's Right to the City and is proud of HRI's work to hold unscrupulous and exploitative bad actors in the real estate industry accountable. In his free time Michael enjoys volunteering with a local food-share network, tending to his plot in his neighborhood community garden, and playing with his cat Millie.
CAEWANYA WOOD-DAVIS
INVESTIGATOR
Through a series of investigations and tenant complaints, Housing Rights Initiative has uncovered rampant discrimination toward people with housing vouchers. Caewanya’s investigative work has provided HRI with a better understanding of the scope and severity of source of income discrimination. Caewanya has also played a pivotal role in educating members of the New York City community about the prevalence of this type of discrimination, and how to combat it. Caewanya is completing the Honors BS/MPA program at John Jay College of the City University of New York and has been on the dean’s list every semester since she enrolled.
Through a series of investigations and tenant complaints, Housing Rights Initiative has uncovered rampant discrimination toward people with housing vouchers. Caewanya’s investigative work has provided HRI with a better understanding of the scope and severity of source of income discrimination. Caewanya has also played a pivotal role in educating members of the New York City community about the prevalence of this type of discrimination, and how to combat it. Caewanya is completing the Honors BS/MPA program at John Jay College of the City University of New York and has been on the dean’s list every semester since she enrolled.
SEUNG GRIZMALA
HOUSING ASSOCIATE
Seung's interest in housing rights was sparked during her time at George Washington University, where she recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in Political Science and Criminal Justice. Seung first joined HRI as a research intern during her sophomore year. Through various internships, she witnessed the effects that inequitable housing practices can have on individuals and communities, further fueling her commitment to advocate for policies that ensure safe, stable, and accessible housing for everyone. Seung remains dedicated to driving change and protecting the rights of those impacted by housing injustice.
Seung's interest in housing rights was sparked during her time at George Washington University, where she recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in Political Science and Criminal Justice. Seung first joined HRI as a research intern during her sophomore year. Through various internships, she witnessed the effects that inequitable housing practices can have on individuals and communities, further fueling her commitment to advocate for policies that ensure safe, stable, and accessible housing for everyone. Seung remains dedicated to driving change and protecting the rights of those impacted by housing injustice.
KULPREET KHATTRA
HOUSING ASSOCIATE
My name is Kulpreet Khattra. I was born in New York, NY. I recently graduated from The College of New Jersey with a dual BA in Political Science and Economics, along with a minor in Law, Politics, and Philosophy. Currently, I am pursuing my Masters of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Business Analytics and Finance at Montclair State University. Professionally, I serve as a Legal Administrative Assistant at The Real Public Defender Co., a non-profit law firm, while also working as a Housing Associate at Housing Rights Initiative. My diverse educational background and professional experiences fuel my passion for law and social justice. I am passionately committed to social justice advocacy. My work at HRI reflects my commitment to advocating for fair and affordable housing. I am dedicated to empowering individuals and creating more equitable communities.
My name is Kulpreet Khattra. I was born in New York, NY. I recently graduated from The College of New Jersey with a dual BA in Political Science and Economics, along with a minor in Law, Politics, and Philosophy. Currently, I am pursuing my Masters of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Business Analytics and Finance at Montclair State University. Professionally, I serve as a Legal Administrative Assistant at The Real Public Defender Co., a non-profit law firm, while also working as a Housing Associate at Housing Rights Initiative. My diverse educational background and professional experiences fuel my passion for law and social justice. I am passionately committed to social justice advocacy. My work at HRI reflects my commitment to advocating for fair and affordable housing. I am dedicated to empowering individuals and creating more equitable communities.
JOSHUA OTERO
HOUSING ASSOCIATE
Joshua Otero was born in Long Island, New York and raised in Queens, New York City. Joshua spends his life in service of the unhoused LGTBQIA+ community and organizes to meet the material demands of his community members located at the intersections of race, gender, and socioeconomic class. Joshua earned a liberal arts degree from Vassar College in Women's Studies, Gender, and Sexuality and is motivated by his experiences with homeless LGBTQIA+ youth to continue to demand equitable and fair housing laws within the state of New York.
Joshua Otero was born in Long Island, New York and raised in Queens, New York City. Joshua spends his life in service of the unhoused LGTBQIA+ community and organizes to meet the material demands of his community members located at the intersections of race, gender, and socioeconomic class. Joshua earned a liberal arts degree from Vassar College in Women's Studies, Gender, and Sexuality and is motivated by his experiences with homeless LGBTQIA+ youth to continue to demand equitable and fair housing laws within the state of New York.
ANNAHAT RANDHAWA
HOUSING ASSOCIATE
Having lived, studied, and worked in diverse countries—including the United States, India, Canada, and Belgium—Annahat Randhawa has developed a broad understanding of global policy challenges. A major issue that stands out to her across these regions is the growing housing crisis and widening income disparity.
Annahat has a background in Political Science from the University of British Columbia and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy at American University, where she serves as the Master of Public Policy representative. She specializes in immigration and foreign policy, with a strong interest in human rights. As a Housing Associate at the Housing Rights Initiative, she is dedicated to addressing and investigating housing inequality. Believing that access to safe, stable housing is a basic human right, she is passionate about contributing to meaningful change in the fight for equitable housing.
Having lived, studied, and worked in diverse countries—including the United States, India, Canada, and Belgium—Annahat Randhawa has developed a broad understanding of global policy challenges. A major issue that stands out to her across these regions is the growing housing crisis and widening income disparity.
Annahat has a background in Political Science from the University of British Columbia and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy at American University, where she serves as the Master of Public Policy representative. She specializes in immigration and foreign policy, with a strong interest in human rights. As a Housing Associate at the Housing Rights Initiative, she is dedicated to addressing and investigating housing inequality. Believing that access to safe, stable housing is a basic human right, she is passionate about contributing to meaningful change in the fight for equitable housing.
SARAH STEINER
BOARD CHAIR
Sarah K. Steiner, Esq. is a sole practitioner in Manhattan, with a practice principally in election law and criminal defense. Ms. Steiner represents candidates, non-profit corporations, civic associations and PACs on the legal aspects of their political activities, and advises on state and federal campaign finance law, compliance, and ethics obligations.
Her experience includes litigation as well as appearances before administrative agencies
such as the New York City Campaign Finance Board and the Board of Elections in the City of New York.
She was an Assistant District Attorney in the Office of the District Attorney, Queens County from 1987-1993, serving in the Rackets, Arson and Economic Crimes Bureau for most of that time. Prior to that, Ms. Steiner was a litigation associate at Reavis and McGrath, now known as Norton Rose Fulbright.
Ms. Steiner chaired the Election Law Committee of the Association of the Bar of the
City of New York from September 2013 to August 2016. She has twice been a member of the ABCNY Criminal Courts Committee, and was its Chair from 1992-1995, and was a member of the ABCNY Criminal Justice Operations and Budget
committee from 2000-2003.
Ms. Steiner has a BA in history and political science from the City University of New York, and is a 1983 graduate of the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. She is admitted to practice in New York, the Southern and Eastern District Federal Courts of New York, and the Supreme Court of the United States.
Sarah K. Steiner, Esq. is a sole practitioner in Manhattan, with a practice principally in election law and criminal defense. Ms. Steiner represents candidates, non-profit corporations, civic associations and PACs on the legal aspects of their political activities, and advises on state and federal campaign finance law, compliance, and ethics obligations.
Her experience includes litigation as well as appearances before administrative agencies
such as the New York City Campaign Finance Board and the Board of Elections in the City of New York.
She was an Assistant District Attorney in the Office of the District Attorney, Queens County from 1987-1993, serving in the Rackets, Arson and Economic Crimes Bureau for most of that time. Prior to that, Ms. Steiner was a litigation associate at Reavis and McGrath, now known as Norton Rose Fulbright.
Ms. Steiner chaired the Election Law Committee of the Association of the Bar of the
City of New York from September 2013 to August 2016. She has twice been a member of the ABCNY Criminal Courts Committee, and was its Chair from 1992-1995, and was a member of the ABCNY Criminal Justice Operations and Budget
committee from 2000-2003.
Ms. Steiner has a BA in history and political science from the City University of New York, and is a 1983 graduate of the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. She is admitted to practice in New York, the Southern and Eastern District Federal Courts of New York, and the Supreme Court of the United States.
YOVAN COLLADO
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Yovan Collado was born and raised in New York City, spending his early years as a resident of Lillian Wald Houses on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and later moving to the Northeast Bronx. Yovan’s parents had come to the United States from the Dominican Republic in search of a better life. Here, they managed to raise six children into professional and productive citizens of which Yovan is the youngest.
His passion for protecting the housing rights of those who are most vulnerable emerges partly from personal experiences, and from seeing many families become victims of the affordable housing crisis that has engulfed his beloved city. Yovan has always had a strong desire to serve his community, and was a member of the NYPD Auxiliary program as a teen and young adult. In his role as an auxiliary police officer, he dedicated many hours to acting as the eyes and ears of local police officers and creating strong police-community relationships.
Yovan is a law student at the City University of New York School of Law. Yovan graduated as a Presidential Scholar at Herbert H. Lehman College with a major in Political Science. In his free time, he enjoys reading the news, exploring New York City, and spending time with his family.
Yovan Collado was born and raised in New York City, spending his early years as a resident of Lillian Wald Houses on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and later moving to the Northeast Bronx. Yovan’s parents had come to the United States from the Dominican Republic in search of a better life. Here, they managed to raise six children into professional and productive citizens of which Yovan is the youngest.
His passion for protecting the housing rights of those who are most vulnerable emerges partly from personal experiences, and from seeing many families become victims of the affordable housing crisis that has engulfed his beloved city. Yovan has always had a strong desire to serve his community, and was a member of the NYPD Auxiliary program as a teen and young adult. In his role as an auxiliary police officer, he dedicated many hours to acting as the eyes and ears of local police officers and creating strong police-community relationships.
Yovan is a law student at the City University of New York School of Law. Yovan graduated as a Presidential Scholar at Herbert H. Lehman College with a major in Political Science. In his free time, he enjoys reading the news, exploring New York City, and spending time with his family.
AFUA ATTA-MENSAH
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Afua Atta-Mensah, Esq. has dedicated her career to public interest law working to defend and craft public policy initiatives that empower historically disadvantaged communities throughout New York.
Afua currently serves as the Director of Litigation and Policy for a New York City public interest law firm, where she oversees the project’s affirmative litigation on behalf of classes and individuals in federal and state courts. Ms. Atta-Mensah also served as a Fellow at the Center for American Progress’ Leadership Institute. The Leadership Institute works to identify, equip, and advance a new generation of leaders from diverse backgrounds and communities to assume responsible roles in the development and implementation of progressive public policies. She is the mother of a three-year old daughter and a proud resident of Central-Harlem.
Afua Atta-Mensah, Esq. has dedicated her career to public interest law working to defend and craft public policy initiatives that empower historically disadvantaged communities throughout New York.
Afua currently serves as the Director of Litigation and Policy for a New York City public interest law firm, where she oversees the project’s affirmative litigation on behalf of classes and individuals in federal and state courts. Ms. Atta-Mensah also served as a Fellow at the Center for American Progress’ Leadership Institute. The Leadership Institute works to identify, equip, and advance a new generation of leaders from diverse backgrounds and communities to assume responsible roles in the development and implementation of progressive public policies. She is the mother of a three-year old daughter and a proud resident of Central-Harlem.
MITCH DRAIZIN
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Mr. Draizin is the founder and president of the Concordia Philanthropic Fund whose mission is to support youth leadership initiatives primarily in the LGBTQ and Progressive political sectors. Previously he was the President of Longview Capital Advisors, a real estate investment and mortgage banking company. He is the co-founder and President of the CUNY LGBTQ Leadership Program as well as creating and volunteer teaching Financial Empowerment Workshops and classes at CUNY. He serves on the board of various nonprofits, including the Congressional Award Foundation, The New Leaders Council and the Williams Institute, Housing Rights Imitative the American LGBTQ+ Historic and Cultural Museum Project.
Community Involvement:
• The Congressional Award Foundation, Board of Directors
• The Point Foundation, Board of Directors
• Lambda Legal, National Leadership Council
• Truman National Security Project-CNP, National Advisory Board
• National LGBT Museum, Board of Directors
• The Mayor’s Fund, Advisory Board
• Out Leadership Advisory Board
• Williams Institute, Founders Council
• Hunter College President’s Advisory Board for the LGBT Public Policy Center at Hunter College
• New Leaders Council (NLC) National Board; Honorary Chairman of the NYS Chapter
• President’s Advisory Board for the LGBT Policy Center at Hunter College
• Thalia Spanish Theater, Queens, NY, Vice President, Board of Directors
• Playworks, NY/NJ Board of Directors
• Advisor to various LGBT non for profit organizations and state and nationwide initiatives
• Mentoring young professionals in real estate finance and community involvement
• Volunteer teach financial literacy/entrepreneurship credit senior class currently at the Hunter Science High School
• Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee: Speaker’s Council; Developed the DCCC/LGBT Council and directing a national LGBT outreach campaign
• Involved with various national, state and local Democratic Party initiatives and candidates
Education:
• MBA: Vanderbilt University Owen School of Management
• BA: George Washington University
Mr. Draizin is the founder and president of the Concordia Philanthropic Fund whose mission is to support youth leadership initiatives primarily in the LGBTQ and Progressive political sectors. Previously he was the President of Longview Capital Advisors, a real estate investment and mortgage banking company. He is the co-founder and President of the CUNY LGBTQ Leadership Program as well as creating and volunteer teaching Financial Empowerment Workshops and classes at CUNY. He serves on the board of various nonprofits, including the Congressional Award Foundation, The New Leaders Council and the Williams Institute, Housing Rights Imitative the American LGBTQ+ Historic and Cultural Museum Project.
Community Involvement:
• The Congressional Award Foundation, Board of Directors
• The Point Foundation, Board of Directors
• Lambda Legal, National Leadership Council
• Truman National Security Project-CNP, National Advisory Board
• National LGBT Museum, Board of Directors
• The Mayor’s Fund, Advisory Board
• Out Leadership Advisory Board
• Williams Institute, Founders Council
• Hunter College President’s Advisory Board for the LGBT Public Policy Center at Hunter College
• New Leaders Council (NLC) National Board; Honorary Chairman of the NYS Chapter
• President’s Advisory Board for the LGBT Policy Center at Hunter College
• Thalia Spanish Theater, Queens, NY, Vice President, Board of Directors
• Playworks, NY/NJ Board of Directors
• Advisor to various LGBT non for profit organizations and state and nationwide initiatives
• Mentoring young professionals in real estate finance and community involvement
• Volunteer teach financial literacy/entrepreneurship credit senior class currently at the Hunter Science High School
• Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee: Speaker’s Council; Developed the DCCC/LGBT Council and directing a national LGBT outreach campaign
• Involved with various national, state and local Democratic Party initiatives and candidates
Education:
• MBA: Vanderbilt University Owen School of Management
• BA: George Washington University
MICHAEL GRINTHAL
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Michael has been a housing attorney in New York City for more than ten years, including as a staff attorney at South Brooklyn Legal Services and as a supervising attorney at MFY Legal Services, where he supervised the housing and three-quarter house practices.
Michael received a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government in 2006, and clerked for U.S. District Judge Nancy Gertner in the District of Massachusetts. Before becoming a lawyer, Michael worked as a community organizer for six years with local leaders building power in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Texas.
Michael has been a housing attorney in New York City for more than ten years, including as a staff attorney at South Brooklyn Legal Services and as a supervising attorney at MFY Legal Services, where he supervised the housing and three-quarter house practices.
Michael received a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government in 2006, and clerked for U.S. District Judge Nancy Gertner in the District of Massachusetts. Before becoming a lawyer, Michael worked as a community organizer for six years with local leaders building power in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Texas.
MICHAEL “ZIGGY” MINTZ
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Michael “Ziggy” Mintz is a computer programmer, GIS teacher, housing activist, and an expert on NYC data. He received his MSc. in Urban Planning at University College London and currently teaches GIS at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health.
Ziggy is a self-taught programmer who believes that computer programming can be an vital tool for social justice. His housing research projects would not be possible with the support of The Learning Collective (http://thelearningcollective.nyc), an organization of activists who teach each other to code.
In 2014, with other community organizers, he helped launch the Bushwick Community Map (http://BushwickCommunityMap.org), a project that displayshousing and planning data in an accessible way. He continues to regularly do data analysis and research for grassroots organizations, lawyers, and non-profits. If there’s a housing data question you have, Ziggy will be happy to help.
Michael “Ziggy” Mintz is a computer programmer, GIS teacher, housing activist, and an expert on NYC data. He received his MSc. in Urban Planning at University College London and currently teaches GIS at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health.
Ziggy is a self-taught programmer who believes that computer programming can be an vital tool for social justice. His housing research projects would not be possible with the support of The Learning Collective (http://thelearningcollective.nyc), an organization of activists who teach each other to code.
In 2014, with other community organizers, he helped launch the Bushwick Community Map (http://BushwickCommunityMap.org), a project that displayshousing and planning data in an accessible way. He continues to regularly do data analysis and research for grassroots organizations, lawyers, and non-profits. If there’s a housing data question you have, Ziggy will be happy to help.
CARMEN RIVERA
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Carmen G. Rivera currently serves as the Assistant Vice President of Communications & External Affairs for VIP Community Services, Bronx NY. Carmen served on the Board of Directors of VIP Community Services for 35 years, where she served as its Chair for 20 years. Ms. Rivera is an active community organizer and activist who facilitated a myriad of community partnerships throughout her 42 year history with the organization.
Ms. Rivera was born in Bayamon, in Puerto Rico and is the third of six children. Her bilingual and bicultural background provided her with sensitivity to the plights of the influx of immigrants and those with language barriers. She began a career of volunteerism; most notably at her local parish of St Anthony’s where a local priest (Rev. Father Robert Banome) helped to nurture her thirst for spiritual ministry and activism. These ecumenical efforts helped to propel the Bronx leaders into providing housing for the poor, food for the hungry, and treatment for those suffering from chemical dependency. Ms. Rivera became a leader in provision of those services in her community.
Her community leadership has spanned decades. Carmen has served on Community Board 9 for seventeen years, and held a post on the Executive Committee for nine. Ms. Rivera also served for 14 years as Housing Chairperson. Ms. Rivera honorably served as parish trustee for 18 years, and President of Parish Council for Church of St. Anthony. Ms. Rivera serves as a mentor and leader to young girls ages 7- 18 years. She provides spiritual mentorship and community projects to create future Latina leaders. She also serves as a member of the Executive Committee of Discovery for Justice Coalition, a nonprofit organization that advocates for criminal justice reform.
Her early professional career was in Publishing. Carmen was employed as the National Sales Manager at Bookazine a Book Wholesaler, later becoming National Trade Sales Manager at Lectorum/Scholastic Publishing marketing Spanish books nationwide. Carmen was a member of the American Library Association, American Bookseller’s Association, and a member of Reforma, supporting the needs of Spanish speakers through library services. In 2009, Carmen was honored with the first Lifetime Achievement Distinction providing services to the Latino community.
Her most important role is the matriarch of her family. Carmen is mother to Yolanda & Jeanette and grandmother of three: Jasmine, Destiny, and Brandon. She is great grandmother to Hailey and Dominick. Ms. Rivera is a proud resident of Bronx, NY for 54 years and has resided in the same home for 45 years. She is an avid reader who enjoys culinary arts and travel.
Carmen G. Rivera currently serves as the Assistant Vice President of Communications & External Affairs for VIP Community Services, Bronx NY. Carmen served on the Board of Directors of VIP Community Services for 35 years, where she served as its Chair for 20 years. Ms. Rivera is an active community organizer and activist who facilitated a myriad of community partnerships throughout her 42 year history with the organization.
Ms. Rivera was born in Bayamon, in Puerto Rico and is the third of six children. Her bilingual and bicultural background provided her with sensitivity to the plights of the influx of immigrants and those with language barriers. She began a career of volunteerism; most notably at her local parish of St Anthony’s where a local priest (Rev. Father Robert Banome) helped to nurture her thirst for spiritual ministry and activism. These ecumenical efforts helped to propel the Bronx leaders into providing housing for the poor, food for the hungry, and treatment for those suffering from chemical dependency. Ms. Rivera became a leader in provision of those services in her community.
Her community leadership has spanned decades. Carmen has served on Community Board 9 for seventeen years, and held a post on the Executive Committee for nine. Ms. Rivera also served for 14 years as Housing Chairperson. Ms. Rivera honorably served as parish trustee for 18 years, and President of Parish Council for Church of St. Anthony. Ms. Rivera serves as a mentor and leader to young girls ages 7- 18 years. She provides spiritual mentorship and community projects to create future Latina leaders. She also serves as a member of the Executive Committee of Discovery for Justice Coalition, a nonprofit organization that advocates for criminal justice reform.
Her early professional career was in Publishing. Carmen was employed as the National Sales Manager at Bookazine a Book Wholesaler, later becoming National Trade Sales Manager at Lectorum/Scholastic Publishing marketing Spanish books nationwide. Carmen was a member of the American Library Association, American Bookseller’s Association, and a member of Reforma, supporting the needs of Spanish speakers through library services. In 2009, Carmen was honored with the first Lifetime Achievement Distinction providing services to the Latino community.
Her most important role is the matriarch of her family. Carmen is mother to Yolanda & Jeanette and grandmother of three: Jasmine, Destiny, and Brandon. She is great grandmother to Hailey and Dominick. Ms. Rivera is a proud resident of Bronx, NY for 54 years and has resided in the same home for 45 years. She is an avid reader who enjoys culinary arts and travel.
JOHN SANCHEZ
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
John is a lifelong Bronx resident who understands the importance of education and the great need to eliminate achievement disparities in schools. He previously served as Constituent Services Manager in the NYS Assembly and worked in the South Bronx where he was responsible for managing the district office, overseeing constituent services, and community outreach. He now continues his service to underserved communities as the NYC Advocacy Manager where he works with schools, parents, and elected officials. In this role, John advocates for the thousands of children attending charter schools, to ensure that all children have the opportunity to attend an excellent school. He is a founding board member of a charter school planning to open in The Bronx in 2017.
John is a lifelong Bronx resident who understands the importance of education and the great need to eliminate achievement disparities in schools. He previously served as Constituent Services Manager in the NYS Assembly and worked in the South Bronx where he was responsible for managing the district office, overseeing constituent services, and community outreach. He now continues his service to underserved communities as the NYC Advocacy Manager where he works with schools, parents, and elected officials. In this role, John advocates for the thousands of children attending charter schools, to ensure that all children have the opportunity to attend an excellent school. He is a founding board member of a charter school planning to open in The Bronx in 2017.
NATALIE WEBB
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER
Natalie Webb received her BA in politics and psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and her JD from CUNY School of Law. During law school Natalie specialized in impact litigation, including assisting on cases challenging police brutality and extraordinary rendition. Since 2012 Natalie has focused on the right to housing, working with non profits in Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan on behalf of low income tenants and homeowners to prevent eviction and foreclosure. In 2014 Natalie worked with non profits in Cape Town advocating for adequate housing and social services on behalf of residents in the informal settlements and temporary relocation areas. Natalie currently is a staff attorney in the Housing Unit at MFY Legal Services.
Natalie Webb received her BA in politics and psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and her JD from CUNY School of Law. During law school Natalie specialized in impact litigation, including assisting on cases challenging police brutality and extraordinary rendition. Since 2012 Natalie has focused on the right to housing, working with non profits in Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan on behalf of low income tenants and homeowners to prevent eviction and foreclosure. In 2014 Natalie worked with non profits in Cape Town advocating for adequate housing and social services on behalf of residents in the informal settlements and temporary relocation areas. Natalie currently is a staff attorney in the Housing Unit at MFY Legal Services.
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