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Message From the CEO

REFLECTING ON MY FIRST YEAR WITH GRATITUDE AND PURPOSE

As I look back on my first year as CEO, I’m filled with gratitude for our Sta, our Board, and the community that continues to inspire everything we do. It’s been a year of learning, growing, and strengthening our foundation together.

Serving as Interim CEO during previous transitions gave me valuable insight into the heart of Union Settlement, but stepping fully into this role has been something truly special. When the Board placed their trust in me to lead this historic, more-than-century-old organization, it meant the world to me. Their support, guidance, and belief in our shared vision have been grounding forces throughout this first year. I’m deeply thankful for their partnership and commitment to ensuring that Union Settlement remains a cornerstone of service for East Harlem.

What continues to move me most, though, is our incredible sta. Every day, I see their commitment in action, whether it’s in classrooms, at service desks, in community programs, or behind the scenes keeping our organization running smoothly. They are the heartbeat of Union Settlement, and their work makes our mission come alive for thousands of neighbors each year.

This year has reminded me that leadership begins with listening – really listening. I’ve learned so much by hearing their ideas, concerns, and hopes for the future. I’ve also learned that it’s not about striving for perfection – it’s about focusing on what truly matters: supporting our people, aligning our strategy, and making data-driven decisions that move us forward.

As we continue building cross-team collaboration and refining our mission for the next era, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and even more hopeful for what’s ahead. Leading an organization with such a long and powerful history of service is both a privilege and a responsibility I carry with pride.

Thank you for your belief in me, and what we stand for. Together, we’re continuing a legacy that has shaped East Harlem for generations, and will keep shaping it for many more to come.

In Partnership and Purpose,
Derrick A. Boone, Psy.D.
Chief Executive Ocer
Union Settlement

East Harlem Tree Lighting 2025

December 5, 2025

East Harlem, NY (March 25, 2025) – Friend to the East Harlem community and WPIX news presenter Monica Morales, covered this years tree lighting. The annual event is now in it’s 22nd year, a festive celebration featuring music, fun activities, and holiday joy for the community.

About Union Settlement

Union Settlement is an on-the-ground resource for East Harlem residents of all ages, and a passionate advocate for the needs of underserved communities. Established in 1895, Union Settlement is an anchor institution providing dozens of programs, across two dozen sites, reaching more than 10,000 East Harlem residents every year. By helping our neighbors realize their goals, we build the vitality and success of East Harlem. To learn more about our services spanning early childhood education, afterschool and summer youth programs, college preparation, job readiness, adult education, mental health counseling, economic development, senior centers, Meals on Wheels and more, visit www.unionsettlement.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Contact

FGS Global – Stuart Cubbon, Jr.

Stuart.Cubbon@fgsglobal.com

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Download Press Release

March-25-2025 Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Union Settlement Names Dr. Derrick Boone as its New Chief Executive Officer

East Harlem, NY (March 25, 2025) – The Board of Directors for Union Settlement (www.unionsettlement.org), East Harlem’s oldest and largest social service provider, has named Dr. Derrick Boone as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 10, 2025.

“Over the years, Dr. Boone’s steadfast commitment to our workforce, mission, and values has been immensely beneficial to our community,” said Dawn Zappetti, Chair of Union Settlement’s Board of Directors. “It’s an honor and privilege to announce that Dr. Boone will lead Union Settlement as its new CEO, ensuring that our important work continues to serve and empower East Harlem.”

Dr. Boone joined Union Settlement in 2018 and has served in several key executive positions including Chief Program Officer for Adult Services, Chief Compliance Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer. For more than two decades, he has worked for nonprofit social service programs in direct care, professional consultation, and executive leadership, including organizations that focus on mental health, employment, education, school-based counseling, seniors, transitional living, trauma-informed care, and homelessness. He holds Master’s and Doctorate degrees in psychology from Loma Linda University.

“Thank you to Dawn and the Board of Directors for trusting me to lead this unique, impactful organization as it approaches 130 years providing on-the-ground resources for the East Harlem community,” said Dr. Boone. “I’m excited to collaborate with our entire team and Board to continue providing essential services and community-building to East Harlem residents of all ages.”