our team
our team
our team
Advisory Board Members
Advisory Board Members
Advisory Board Members
David Aviles
David Aviles
David Aviles
Executive Director, United Clergy Task Force
Executive Director, United Clergy Task Force
Executive Director, United Clergy Task Force
David Aviles is Executive Director of the United Clergy Task Force (UCTF), a network of over forty faith-based organizations dedicated to community empowerment through affordable housing development and revitalization. Born and raised in the Bronx, David founded the UCTF in 2013 after a distinguished career in real estate and finance, driven by his commitment to helping faith-based communities execute charitable drives, financial education, and capacity building programs.
Under David's visionary leadership, the UCTF has forged groundbreaking partnerships with the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust, Building Trades of Greater New York, and the Consortium for Worker Education, creating nationally unique workforce development initiatives that transform local economic landscapes. His innovative approach ensures development serves as community empowerment rather than gentrification.
Currently overseeing projects across the New York Metropolitan region and Puerto Rico, David has been instrumental in long-term social and economic recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria. His extensive board service includes leadership roles with the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, Interfaith Assembly on Homelessness and Housing, and Imagine Me Leadership Charter School, reflecting his decades-long commitment to community development and economic justice.
David Aviles is Executive Director of the United Clergy Task Force (UCTF), a network of over forty faith-based organizations dedicated to community empowerment through affordable housing development and revitalization. Born and raised in the Bronx, David founded the UCTF in 2013 after a distinguished career in real estate and finance, driven by his commitment to helping faith-based communities execute charitable drives, financial education, and capacity building programs.
Under David's visionary leadership, the UCTF has forged groundbreaking partnerships with the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust, Building Trades of Greater New York, and the Consortium for Worker Education, creating nationally unique workforce development initiatives that transform local economic landscapes. His innovative approach ensures development serves as community empowerment rather than gentrification.
Currently overseeing projects across the New York Metropolitan region and Puerto Rico, David has been instrumental in long-term social and economic recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria. His extensive board service includes leadership roles with the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, Interfaith Assembly on Homelessness and Housing, and Imagine Me Leadership Charter School, reflecting his decades-long commitment to community development and economic justice.
David Aviles is Executive Director of the United Clergy Task Force (UCTF), a network of over forty faith-based organizations dedicated to community empowerment through affordable housing development and revitalization. Born and raised in the Bronx, David founded the UCTF in 2013 after a distinguished career in real estate and finance, driven by his commitment to helping faith-based communities execute charitable drives, financial education, and capacity building programs.
Under David's visionary leadership, the UCTF has forged groundbreaking partnerships with the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust, Building Trades of Greater New York, and the Consortium for Worker Education, creating nationally unique workforce development initiatives that transform local economic landscapes. His innovative approach ensures development serves as community empowerment rather than gentrification.
Currently overseeing projects across the New York Metropolitan region and Puerto Rico, David has been instrumental in long-term social and economic recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria. His extensive board service includes leadership roles with the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, Interfaith Assembly on Homelessness and Housing, and Imagine Me Leadership Charter School, reflecting his decades-long commitment to community development and economic justice.
Anderson Torres, PhD, LCSW-R
Anderson Torres, PhD, LCSW-R
President and CEO of R.A.I.N. Total Care, Inc
President and CEO of R.A.I.N. Total Care, Inc
President and CEO of R.A.I.N. Total Care, Inc
Anderson Torres serves as the Bronx's largest nonprofit social services agency serving older adults and marginalized community members. As steward of an organization founded by visionary Beatrice Castiglia Catullo in 1961, Dr. Torres leads over twenty integrated programs including thirteen full-service senior centers, home attendant services, home delivered meals, case management, housing assistance, and advocacy services throughout the Bronx and Upper Manhattan.
A licensed clinical social worker with extensive expertise in aging services and community care, Dr. Torres brings both academic rigor and deeply personal commitment to his leadership role. His vision ensures services meet the standard he would expect for his own family members. Beyond his New York responsibilities, Dr. Torres serves as President of the Board of Directors for HOGAR CATALEYA in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico, and is a co-contributing author of social work publications. Under his leadership, R.A.I.N. continues its foundational mission of providing comprehensive community-based alternatives to institutionalization while serving the most vulnerable populations with dignity and respect.
Anderson Torres serves as the Bronx's largest nonprofit social services agency serving older adults and marginalized community members. As steward of an organization founded by visionary Beatrice Castiglia Catullo in 1961, Dr. Torres leads over twenty integrated programs including thirteen full-service senior centers, home attendant services, home delivered meals, case management, housing assistance, and advocacy services throughout the Bronx and Upper Manhattan.
A licensed clinical social worker with extensive expertise in aging services and community care, Dr. Torres brings both academic rigor and deeply personal commitment to his leadership role. His vision ensures services meet the standard he would expect for his own family members. Beyond his New York responsibilities, Dr. Torres serves as President of the Board of Directors for HOGAR CATALEYA in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico, and is a co-contributing author of social work publications. Under his leadership, R.A.I.N. continues its foundational mission of providing comprehensive community-based alternatives to institutionalization while serving the most vulnerable populations with dignity and respect.
Anderson Torres serves as the Bronx's largest nonprofit social services agency serving older adults and marginalized community members. As steward of an organization founded by visionary Beatrice Castiglia Catullo in 1961, Dr. Torres leads over twenty integrated programs including thirteen full-service senior centers, home attendant services, home delivered meals, case management, housing assistance, and advocacy services throughout the Bronx and Upper Manhattan.
A licensed clinical social worker with extensive expertise in aging services and community care, Dr. Torres brings both academic rigor and deeply personal commitment to his leadership role. His vision ensures services meet the standard he would expect for his own family members. Beyond his New York responsibilities, Dr. Torres serves as President of the Board of Directors for HOGAR CATALEYA in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico, and is a co-contributing author of social work publications. Under his leadership, R.A.I.N. continues its foundational mission of providing comprehensive community-based alternatives to institutionalization while serving the most vulnerable populations with dignity and respect.
Alestra Flores Menéndez
Alestra Flores Menéndez
Alestra Flores Menéndez
Director, Multilingual Initiatives, Amplify Inc.
Director, Multilingual Initiatives, Amplify Inc.
Director, Multilingual Initiatives, Amplify Inc.
Alestra Flores Menéndez is an educator and advocate with over twenty years of experience empowering students across diverse learning environments. As Director of Multilingual Initiatives at Amplify, she leads efforts to support multilingual learners nationwide. Her extensive background includes serving as a Spanish dual immersion teacher, literacy coach, and curriculum designer at UC Berkeley's Lawrence Hall of Science. Alestra has also taught college English through UC Berkeley's Early Academic Outreach Program and at San Quentin Prison, demonstrating her commitment to making education accessible to all learners.
A passionate advocate for educational equity, Alestra has dedicated her career to ensuring that multilingual students and students with special needs reach their full potential. She has provided instruction and professional development to educators throughout the United States and Latin America, sharing her expertise on a global scale. Alestra's work is rooted in the fundamental belief that literacy development is a lifelong journey and the most powerful catalyst for transforming lives.
Alestra Flores Menéndez is an educator and advocate with over twenty years of experience empowering students across diverse learning environments. As Director of Multilingual Initiatives at Amplify, she leads efforts to support multilingual learners nationwide. Her extensive background includes serving as a Spanish dual immersion teacher, literacy coach, and curriculum designer at UC Berkeley's Lawrence Hall of Science. Alestra has also taught college English through UC Berkeley's Early Academic Outreach Program and at San Quentin Prison, demonstrating her commitment to making education accessible to all learners.
A passionate advocate for educational equity, Alestra has dedicated her career to ensuring that multilingual students and students with special needs reach their full potential. She has provided instruction and professional development to educators throughout the United States and Latin America, sharing her expertise on a global scale. Alestra's work is rooted in the fundamental belief that literacy development is a lifelong journey and the most powerful catalyst for transforming lives.
Alestra Flores Menéndez is an educator and advocate with over twenty years of experience empowering students across diverse learning environments. As Director of Multilingual Initiatives at Amplify, she leads efforts to support multilingual learners nationwide. Her extensive background includes serving as a Spanish dual immersion teacher, literacy coach, and curriculum designer at UC Berkeley's Lawrence Hall of Science. Alestra has also taught college English through UC Berkeley's Early Academic Outreach Program and at San Quentin Prison, demonstrating her commitment to making education accessible to all learners.
A passionate advocate for educational equity, Alestra has dedicated her career to ensuring that multilingual students and students with special needs reach their full potential. She has provided instruction and professional development to educators throughout the United States and Latin America, sharing her expertise on a global scale. Alestra's work is rooted in the fundamental belief that literacy development is a lifelong journey and the most powerful catalyst for transforming lives.
Jimmie Bell
Jimmie Bell
Jimmie Bell
Founder, Jimmie Bell Empowers
Founder, Jimmie Bell Empowers
Founder, Jimmie Bell Empowers
is an empowerment coach, motivational speaker, and author dedicated to inspiring individuals to reach their full potential. A former Ohio State Buckeye defensive lineman and NFL player, Jimmie transformed personal adversity into a powerful platform for change. After earning his degree from The Ohio State University, where his team captured two Big Ten Championships and the 1997 Rose Bowl, he played professionally for the New York Giants and San Diego Chargers.
Following his football career, Jimmie founded Jimmie Bell Empowers, focusing on youth development, business coaching, and community empowerment. His journey from struggling student-athlete to successful entrepreneur exemplifies his core message of personal responsibility and transformation. A passionate advocate for education, Jimmie has inspired students across Ohio through school visits and speaking engagements. He currently serves as head football coach at Belpre High School and sits on the board of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. Jimmie's work is grounded in the belief that everyone possesses the power to create positive change in their lives and communities.
is an empowerment coach, motivational speaker, and author dedicated to inspiring individuals to reach their full potential. A former Ohio State Buckeye defensive lineman and NFL player, Jimmie transformed personal adversity into a powerful platform for change. After earning his degree from The Ohio State University, where his team captured two Big Ten Championships and the 1997 Rose Bowl, he played professionally for the New York Giants and San Diego Chargers.
Following his football career, Jimmie founded Jimmie Bell Empowers, focusing on youth development, business coaching, and community empowerment. His journey from struggling student-athlete to successful entrepreneur exemplifies his core message of personal responsibility and transformation. A passionate advocate for education, Jimmie has inspired students across Ohio through school visits and speaking engagements. He currently serves as head football coach at Belpre High School and sits on the board of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. Jimmie's work is grounded in the belief that everyone possesses the power to create positive change in their lives and communities.
is an empowerment coach, motivational speaker, and author dedicated to inspiring individuals to reach their full potential. A former Ohio State Buckeye defensive lineman and NFL player, Jimmie transformed personal adversity into a powerful platform for change. After earning his degree from The Ohio State University, where his team captured two Big Ten Championships and the 1997 Rose Bowl, he played professionally for the New York Giants and San Diego Chargers.
Following his football career, Jimmie founded Jimmie Bell Empowers, focusing on youth development, business coaching, and community empowerment. His journey from struggling student-athlete to successful entrepreneur exemplifies his core message of personal responsibility and transformation. A passionate advocate for education, Jimmie has inspired students across Ohio through school visits and speaking engagements. He currently serves as head football coach at Belpre High School and sits on the board of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. Jimmie's work is grounded in the belief that everyone possesses the power to create positive change in their lives and communities.
Robert S. Budd, MPS
Robert S. Budd, MPS
Robert S. Budd, MPS
Sr. Chief Executive Officer/President , FREE Inc.
Sr. Chief Executive Officer/President , FREE Inc.
Sr. Chief Executive Officer/President , FREE Inc.
Robert S. Budd is a mission-driven leader and Senior Chief Executive Officer/President of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), a nonprofit organization supporting individuals of all abilities through community living, employment, clinical services, and educational programs. Since joining FREE in 1985, Robert has transformed the organization from a $1 million operation serving 45 individuals into one of Long Island's largest nonprofits, with a $150 million budget serving over 35,000 people annually.
Robert's innovative leadership has been instrumental in developing FREE's unique Network structure, which combines the flexibility of smaller organizations with the efficiency of a larger network. Alongside co-leader Dr. Christopher Long, he successfully navigated FREE through the COVID-19 pandemic while creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and establishing state-of-the-art mental health services.
A passionate advocate for the disability community, Robert serves on numerous boards including the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), where he is past President and 2018 Legacy Leaders Circle inductee. His commitment extends to consulting, speaking, and training other human service providers, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor at Stony Brook University. Robert holds degrees in psychology from SUNY Potsdam and Long Island University, and is pursuing executive coaching certification.
Robert S. Budd is a mission-driven leader and Senior Chief Executive Officer/President of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), a nonprofit organization supporting individuals of all abilities through community living, employment, clinical services, and educational programs. Since joining FREE in 1985, Robert has transformed the organization from a $1 million operation serving 45 individuals into one of Long Island's largest nonprofits, with a $150 million budget serving over 35,000 people annually.
Robert's innovative leadership has been instrumental in developing FREE's unique Network structure, which combines the flexibility of smaller organizations with the efficiency of a larger network. Alongside co-leader Dr. Christopher Long, he successfully navigated FREE through the COVID-19 pandemic while creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and establishing state-of-the-art mental health services.
A passionate advocate for the disability community, Robert serves on numerous boards including the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), where he is past President and 2018 Legacy Leaders Circle inductee. His commitment extends to consulting, speaking, and training other human service providers, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor at Stony Brook University. Robert holds degrees in psychology from SUNY Potsdam and Long Island University, and is pursuing executive coaching certification.
Robert S. Budd is a mission-driven leader and Senior Chief Executive Officer/President of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), a nonprofit organization supporting individuals of all abilities through community living, employment, clinical services, and educational programs. Since joining FREE in 1985, Robert has transformed the organization from a $1 million operation serving 45 individuals into one of Long Island's largest nonprofits, with a $150 million budget serving over 35,000 people annually.
Robert's innovative leadership has been instrumental in developing FREE's unique Network structure, which combines the flexibility of smaller organizations with the efficiency of a larger network. Alongside co-leader Dr. Christopher Long, he successfully navigated FREE through the COVID-19 pandemic while creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and establishing state-of-the-art mental health services.
A passionate advocate for the disability community, Robert serves on numerous boards including the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), where he is past President and 2018 Legacy Leaders Circle inductee. His commitment extends to consulting, speaking, and training other human service providers, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor at Stony Brook University. Robert holds degrees in psychology from SUNY Potsdam and Long Island University, and is pursuing executive coaching certification.
Adalberto de Jesús
Adalberto de Jesús
Adalberto de Jesús
Founder, Caribbean Swine Industry, Inc.
Founder, Caribbean Swine Industry, Inc.
Founder, Caribbean Swine Industry, Inc.
Adalberto de Jesús is an agronomist, entrepreneur, and community advocate deeply rooted in the mountainous region of Jayuya, Puerto Rico, where he was raised among the island's rich agricultural traditions. Drawing from his deep connection to this culturally significant area—known as the heart of Puerto Rico's coffee country and indigenous Taíno heritage—Adalberto has dedicated his career to sustainable agriculture and economic development.
After earning his bachelor's degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez in 2010, Adalberto combined his agronomic expertise with entrepreneurial vision to transform local food systems. As Founder and President of Caribbean Swine Industry Inc., he has revolutionized sustainable pork production practices while supporting regional farmers and economic growth. His agricultural knowledge directly informs his role as owner of Porkbelly Bar and Grill, where he champions farm-to-table dining that celebrates Puerto Rican culinary traditions.
A tireless advocate for children and natural resources, Adalberto bridges the gap between traditional agricultural wisdom and modern sustainable practices. His work demonstrates how agricultural education and responsible business practices can preserve Puerto Rico's natural heritage while creating economic opportunities that strengthen rural communities and honor the land that shaped him.
Adalberto de Jesús is an agronomist, entrepreneur, and community advocate deeply rooted in the mountainous region of Jayuya, Puerto Rico, where he was raised among the island's rich agricultural traditions. Drawing from his deep connection to this culturally significant area—known as the heart of Puerto Rico's coffee country and indigenous Taíno heritage—Adalberto has dedicated his career to sustainable agriculture and economic development.
After earning his bachelor's degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez in 2010, Adalberto combined his agronomic expertise with entrepreneurial vision to transform local food systems. As Founder and President of Caribbean Swine Industry Inc., he has revolutionized sustainable pork production practices while supporting regional farmers and economic growth. His agricultural knowledge directly informs his role as owner of Porkbelly Bar and Grill, where he champions farm-to-table dining that celebrates Puerto Rican culinary traditions.
A tireless advocate for children and natural resources, Adalberto bridges the gap between traditional agricultural wisdom and modern sustainable practices. His work demonstrates how agricultural education and responsible business practices can preserve Puerto Rico's natural heritage while creating economic opportunities that strengthen rural communities and honor the land that shaped him.
Adalberto de Jesús is an agronomist, entrepreneur, and community advocate deeply rooted in the mountainous region of Jayuya, Puerto Rico, where he was raised among the island's rich agricultural traditions. Drawing from his deep connection to this culturally significant area—known as the heart of Puerto Rico's coffee country and indigenous Taíno heritage—Adalberto has dedicated his career to sustainable agriculture and economic development.
After earning his bachelor's degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez in 2010, Adalberto combined his agronomic expertise with entrepreneurial vision to transform local food systems. As Founder and President of Caribbean Swine Industry Inc., he has revolutionized sustainable pork production practices while supporting regional farmers and economic growth. His agricultural knowledge directly informs his role as owner of Porkbelly Bar and Grill, where he champions farm-to-table dining that celebrates Puerto Rican culinary traditions.
A tireless advocate for children and natural resources, Adalberto bridges the gap between traditional agricultural wisdom and modern sustainable practices. His work demonstrates how agricultural education and responsible business practices can preserve Puerto Rico's natural heritage while creating economic opportunities that strengthen rural communities and honor the land that shaped him.
Jeremy C. Kohomban, Ph.D.
Jeremy C. Kohomban, Ph.D.
Jeremy C. Kohomban, Ph.D.
President and CEO The Children’s Village
President and CEO The Children’s Village
President and CEO The Children’s Village
President Harlem Dowling – West Side Center
President Harlem Dowling – West Side Center
President Harlem Dowling – West Side Center
Jeremy Christopher Kohomban, PhD, is President and CEO of The Children's Village and President of Harlem Dowling, two organizations founded in the early 1800s that serve over 30,000 children and families annually. A leading national advocate for child welfare reform, Jeremy prioritizes family support over separation interventions and was a primary contributor to the federal Family First Prevention Services Act, which created the greatest advances in the field in over four decades.
Under Jeremy's visionary leadership, The Children's Village—the nation's oldest and once-largest children's residential treatment center—has been transformed into a national model for community-embedded family support. His work is grounded in social justice principles and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a family, regardless of age or circumstances.
Jeremy's impact has earned national recognition, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services calling The Children's Village "one of the exemplary primary prevention efforts operating in urban and rural jurisdictions." His leadership has garnered prestigious awards including the Gold Prize from New York Community Trust-New York Magazine and the Child Welfare League of America's Exemplary Innovative Leadership Award. Jeremy serves as a Trustee of Save the Children and was appointed by NYC officials to key commissions addressing community reinvestment and immigrant services. He holds degrees from multiple institutions, including a PhD from Regent University.
Jeremy Christopher Kohomban, PhD, is President and CEO of The Children's Village and President of Harlem Dowling, two organizations founded in the early 1800s that serve over 30,000 children and families annually. A leading national advocate for child welfare reform, Jeremy prioritizes family support over separation interventions and was a primary contributor to the federal Family First Prevention Services Act, which created the greatest advances in the field in over four decades.
Under Jeremy's visionary leadership, The Children's Village—the nation's oldest and once-largest children's residential treatment center—has been transformed into a national model for community-embedded family support. His work is grounded in social justice principles and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a family, regardless of age or circumstances.
Jeremy's impact has earned national recognition, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services calling The Children's Village "one of the exemplary primary prevention efforts operating in urban and rural jurisdictions." His leadership has garnered prestigious awards including the Gold Prize from New York Community Trust-New York Magazine and the Child Welfare League of America's Exemplary Innovative Leadership Award. Jeremy serves as a Trustee of Save the Children and was appointed by NYC officials to key commissions addressing community reinvestment and immigrant services. He holds degrees from multiple institutions, including a PhD from Regent University.
Jeremy Christopher Kohomban, PhD, is President and CEO of The Children's Village and President of Harlem Dowling, two organizations founded in the early 1800s that serve over 30,000 children and families annually. A leading national advocate for child welfare reform, Jeremy prioritizes family support over separation interventions and was a primary contributor to the federal Family First Prevention Services Act, which created the greatest advances in the field in over four decades.
Under Jeremy's visionary leadership, The Children's Village—the nation's oldest and once-largest children's residential treatment center—has been transformed into a national model for community-embedded family support. His work is grounded in social justice principles and the unwavering belief that every child deserves a family, regardless of age or circumstances.
Jeremy's impact has earned national recognition, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services calling The Children's Village "one of the exemplary primary prevention efforts operating in urban and rural jurisdictions." His leadership has garnered prestigious awards including the Gold Prize from New York Community Trust-New York Magazine and the Child Welfare League of America's Exemplary Innovative Leadership Award. Jeremy serves as a Trustee of Save the Children and was appointed by NYC officials to key commissions addressing community reinvestment and immigrant services. He holds degrees from multiple institutions, including a PhD from Regent University.
John McDermott
John McDermott
John McDermott
Director for Community Development, United Clergy Task Force
Director for Community Development, United Clergy Task Force
Director for Community Development, United Clergy Task Force
John McDermott is a workforce development leader dedicated to creating pathways to economic opportunity for working families. As Director of Strategic Partnership at the Consortium for Worker Education (CWE), he oversees innovative training programs that connect New Yorkers with high-wage union careers in construction, transportation, and emerging industries. Under his leadership, CWE has developed groundbreaking initiatives including the New York City Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers (PINCC) program, which places 2,300 workers into good-paying jobs over three years.
Currently serving with the United Clergy Task Force, McDermott continues his commitment to community-centered economic development, working to leverage faith-based partnerships for affordable housing and workforce training initiatives. His expertise spans apprenticeship program development, labor-management partnerships, and addressing systemic barriers to employment such as driver's license access for young workers. Throughout his extensive career with CWE, McDermott has championed the belief that quality jobs with strong benefits and working conditions are essential for both individual success and community prosperity, consistently advocating for programs that provide demonstrable returns on workers' training investments.
John McDermott is a workforce development leader dedicated to creating pathways to economic opportunity for working families. As Director of Strategic Partnership at the Consortium for Worker Education (CWE), he oversees innovative training programs that connect New Yorkers with high-wage union careers in construction, transportation, and emerging industries. Under his leadership, CWE has developed groundbreaking initiatives including the New York City Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers (PINCC) program, which places 2,300 workers into good-paying jobs over three years.
Currently serving with the United Clergy Task Force, McDermott continues his commitment to community-centered economic development, working to leverage faith-based partnerships for affordable housing and workforce training initiatives. His expertise spans apprenticeship program development, labor-management partnerships, and addressing systemic barriers to employment such as driver's license access for young workers. Throughout his extensive career with CWE, McDermott has championed the belief that quality jobs with strong benefits and working conditions are essential for both individual success and community prosperity, consistently advocating for programs that provide demonstrable returns on workers' training investments.
John McDermott is a workforce development leader dedicated to creating pathways to economic opportunity for working families. As Director of Strategic Partnership at the Consortium for Worker Education (CWE), he oversees innovative training programs that connect New Yorkers with high-wage union careers in construction, transportation, and emerging industries. Under his leadership, CWE has developed groundbreaking initiatives including the New York City Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers (PINCC) program, which places 2,300 workers into good-paying jobs over three years.
Currently serving with the United Clergy Task Force, McDermott continues his commitment to community-centered economic development, working to leverage faith-based partnerships for affordable housing and workforce training initiatives. His expertise spans apprenticeship program development, labor-management partnerships, and addressing systemic barriers to employment such as driver's license access for young workers. Throughout his extensive career with CWE, McDermott has championed the belief that quality jobs with strong benefits and working conditions are essential for both individual success and community prosperity, consistently advocating for programs that provide demonstrable returns on workers' training investments.