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Union Settlement Receives Largest Award in NYC Small Business Grant Initiative

Featured in amNewYork, Union Settlement received the largest individual grant awarded through New York City’s $8.4 million small business initiative, advancing community-driven economic development efforts in East Harlem.

Meet and Greet The NYC Aging Commissioner

Meet and Greet
The NYC Aging Commissioner

Union Settlement and East Harlem Community Health Committee (EHCHC) were pleased to host NYC Aging Commissioner Dr. Lisa Scott-McKenzie for a site visit at the Washington Lexington Community Center, located at 1775 3rd Ave, NY, NY 10029, on July 31, 2026.

During the visit, Commissioner Scott-McKenzie toured the center, learned about the accomplishments of our Older Adult Services programs, engaged with participants, and saw firsthand how our newly renovated space is helping us better serve the East Harlem community.

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 Staff, 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 staff. 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 Officer
Union Settlement

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