“I wanted to do something that was meaningful. I wanted to do something that was close to home—I grew up in this area—and I wanted to do something that allowed me to make an impact,” said Derrick Holman, Culinary Program Supervisor at Allie’s Place.

That desire to give back has shaped Derrick’s path both inside and outside of his work at HFH.

Before joining HFH three years ago, Derrick worked in marketing and advertising after earning a degree in sociology from Wesleyan University. While he originally embarked on a career in marketing, he found himself looking for work that would allow him to make a more direct impact in the neighborhood where he grew up. He joined Allie’s Place Family Residence in Soundview as an Outreach Specialist, a role that drew on his marketing experience by connecting families with diverse programming. He later became Program Specialist, supporting initiatives across the residence, and was recently promoted to Culinary Program Supervisor, where he will oversee the daily operations of the Culinary program’s employment and outreach team.

As Program Specialist, Derrick supported many programs throughout the facility, including Family Services, Afterschool & Recreation, and the Culinary Center at Allie’s Place. Whether coordinating events, helping families navigate enrollment, presenting at monthly housing meetings where residents receive housing resources and guidance, or representing Allie’s Place at community resource fairs, Derrick has played an important part in connecting residents to programmatic support across the site.

One of Derrick’s favorite parts of the role is seeing how those programs come together to support the entire family.

“We’ve had families whose children were in the Early Childhood Education program, then they participated in the Culinary program, or their kids are in Afterschool, and then I may be working with them during our housing meetings,” Derrick said. “It’s really important for all of us that we’re serving the entire family.”

For Derrick, that means recognizing that every family’s needs are different and meeting people where they are.

“Understanding that what each person needs is different,” he said. “Being there for people in the ways that they need to be supported, not just in the ways that we want to support them, is probably the most important part.”

That mindset is reflected in the way Derrick approaches his work every day.

“Derrick consistently shows incredible drive and strong organizational skills,” said Jayda Gabriel, Lead Chef Instructor for the Culinary Center at Allie’s Place, a job training and workforce development center that prepares adults for careers in the food and hospitality industry. “He’s always willing to jump in wherever needed and make sure everything is done right. His kindness, dependability, and teamwork truly stand out.”

Julissa Lantigua, Senior Administrator at Allie’s Place, has seen Derrick’s impact across the facility.

“There is no better person to express the services at Allie’s Place than him,” she said. “He knows how to present the programs and the great opportunities that people can take advantage of.”

She said his understanding of each program allows him to anticipate what staff need and support them wherever he can.

Whether supporting a program, assisting a family, or helping organize an event, Julissa said Derrick approaches every task with the same level of care.

Charima Thompson, Director of Family Services at Allie’s Place, has seen that same commitment through Derrick’s support of her department.

“He goes above and beyond,” she said. “Derrick is all over the place—he is helping everybody.”

The same desire to help others extends beyond Derrick’s work at Allie’s Place.

Outside of HFH, he remains active in his community through his local Community Board and other neighborhood initiatives. Having grown up skateboarding, Derrick became involved in an effort to bring the first skate park to Soundview after connecting with local Pastor Joel Grassi, who had already begun building support for the project. Since then, the two have worked alongside local residents, community organizations, elected officials, and Tony Hawk’s The Skatepark Project to help move the effort forward. Derrick hopes that one day children from Allie’s Place will have the opportunity to enjoy the finished skate park.

In addition, through his involvement with various industry organizations, including Together Hospitality NYC and Grassroots Hospitality, Joel helped connect Derrick and the Culinary Center at Allie’s Place to a network of professionals across the food and hospitality industries, opening doors to valuable relationships and resources.

“He’s very genuine, he’s very focused, and he brings the right connections together to help everybody’s quality of life move forward,” said Joel.

When he isn’t at work or volunteering in the community, Derrick enjoys fitness, writing music, and spending time with family and friends. A songwriter with an appreciation for all genres of music, from folk and pop to rap, he enjoys live music and visiting local jazz clubs.

“I thought I wanted to leave schools. But when I tried something else, I didn’t enjoy it because I wasn’t around kids,” said Sofia Gaston, Education Program Coordinator at Prospect Family Residence. “Then I finally found HFH, and it seemed like something that I would like to do.”

For Sofia Gaston, all roads led back to education. She began her career working at a group home for adolescent girls in New York City and later at a school for children with special needs.

“I’ve always liked working with kids. Even when I was younger, I did a lot of volunteer work. I worked with my church youth group retreats, and that led me to working in a group home and eventually becoming a teacher.”

After getting married, Sofia and her husband moved to Puerto Rico, where she spent nearly 20 years teaching first, second, and third grade. When she eventually returned to New York City, she continued working in school settings as a family coordinator at a charter high school and then as a parent coordinator at a public middle school.

Although Sofia later stepped away to pursue other interests, she found herself missing the work. She felt called back to education when she read about the Education Coordinator role at Prospect on a job search site. This June marks two years with HFH.

“It has been really good working with the kids,” she said. “It’s good to be back in a classroom setting.”

In her current role, Sofia oversees the Afterschool & Recreation program at Prospect. She manages staff, plans events and activities, and ensures that all program requirements are met. She currently works with team members who she says collaborate well and genuinely enjoy working with the kids, something she believes makes a big difference.

Lead Teacher Giovanni Yapor, who has worked with Sofia for about two years, says one of her greatest strengths is the way she connects with the entire Prospect community.

“When Sofia first came, she was curious to see how things ran here. She made it her business to get to know every person and every corner of this building,” he said. “I have seen her become more than comfortable and confident in this role. She truly believes in what we do and always looks for ways to help our students and their families.”

Marisol Santiago, Administrator at Prospect, emphasized Sofia’s team-oriented approach, noting that she actively incorporates staff feedback into the program. She added that she and Sofia share a strong vision for the program and build on each other’s energy and enthusiasm. Sofia’s dedication is clear in her relationships—not only with her coworkers, but also with the kids and their families.

“It feels like I’ve already been working with her for 15 years. We really mesh,” said Marisol. “She has a fantastic relationship with the parents. She comes in with a smile on her face, and you can see with the kids … she generates that positive energy in the program.”

While creating a fun and welcoming environment is key, Sofia also focuses on tailoring programming to meet the needs of each group—considering age, interests, and opportunities for skill-building.

“With every group, it’s a little bit different,” she explained. “Sometimes they don’t know how to play a sport together. They’re used to being alone or just with their sibling. So, we ask, ‘How are we going to work together? How are we going to build community?’ It’s important that they learn something and take something with them from being in the program.”

Her passion is visible across departments, and her coworkers consistently point to her positive energy and commitment.

“She’s excellent at running the Afterschool program,” said Keith Martinez, Housekeeping Supervisor, who helps maintain the program spaces to ensure they are safe, clean, and welcoming for the kids. “She works well with the kids and is very determined. She wants what’s best for them. It’s like she’s taking care of her own kids. There’s always a positive energy when it comes to her.”

According to Saira Andujar, Assistant Administrator at Prospect

“Being a people person really strengthens her in this role because she’s able to connect with the families. Her energy draws people in. They want to know who she is and what the program is about.”

For Sofia, it’s the sense of community that keeps her going, not just the kids and families, but her coworkers as well.

“[Prospect] is in my neighborhood,” she said. “Even when I’m walking around, and I’m not at work, I see the people that work here. It’s nice to see them, and it’s nice to see the kids. It’s nice to be around your community.”

She also finds motivation in the workplace culture itself.

“The people that work here—this is a place that people want to stay,” she said. “I’ve met people who have been here 5, 10, 15 years, and that says something. I like where I work. I enjoy coming here. I enjoy the people I work with, and I enjoy the families I work with.”

Outside of work, Sofia enjoys eating out at restaurants and traveling to new places with her husband of 30 years.

For Antione Newton, helping people is more than part of the job—it’s what drew him to the work in the first place. As a Driver at Williamsbridge Family Residence, Antione supports families and staff every day by ensuring residents can reach their destinations safely and on time. Drivers at HFH play a critical role in helping families access opportunities that move them closer to stable housing, and Antione embraces that responsibility with care. His steady presence and positive attitude have made him a valued part of the team since he joined in August 2024.

“I’m a people person. I like helping people out, so when I saw the job at a homeless shelter I thought, ‘Why not try?’” said Antione.

Antione’s role includes driving housing specialists and residents to apartment viewings, lease signings, and to pick up the keys for residents’ new homes—critical steps on a family’s path out of shelter. When he is not accompanying staff and families to these appointments, Antione works closely with Partnerships Manager Tierra Gunther to deliver essential items and donations to the shelters. He plays an important role in making sure that the items received from partners and donors are distributed to the families efficiently. He also assists with moving supplies and equipment. Around the building, he is known as someone who is always willing to lend a hand.

Many apartment showings and appointments are far from the shelter, sometimes in cold or difficult weather. Having a dependable driver helps ensure families can attend these important meetings to help them meet their goals.

One of Antione’s favorite parts of the job is accompanying housing specialists and residents to apartments. He enjoys seeing the different neighborhoods and buildings across the city, but what stands out most is seeing the excitement of the families when they are one step closer to having a place of their own. Being part of those moments reinforces the importance of his role in the broader mission of helping families move forward.

Housing Specialist Milagros Gonzalez frequently travels with Antione and describes him as both professional and compassionate.

“He is courteous and very polite to the residents we escort to different destinations. He is an asset to the housing team,” she said. “He travels near and far to get the job done.”

She also emphasized that Antione is intentional about creating a safe and supportive environment whenever he is transporting staff and residents. “He has always been very kind and approachable. If you ask him for help, he lends a hand. He makes people feel good when he interacts with them. He’s there for us, and I appreciate him for that. He is very valuable; we need him.”

Williamsbridge Administrator Alfonsina Gomez noted that Antione connects easily with staff across all departments and is frequently praised by coworkers.

“He gets along with everybody,” she said. “He’s always open to help, learn, listen, and understand. He is very respectful. He is always eager to do the job—and always with a positive attitude.”

Tierra Gunther highlighted his reliability, flexibility, and genuine enthusiasm for the mission behind the work. She also mentioned that donors and partners have commented on how friendly and helpful he is.

“He is always asking questions about programs, donations, residents—he’s not just there to work; he wants to know more about the people that we serve,” she said. “When I think of someone I can really rely on, he’s at the top.”

Each day, Antione aims to show up with a positive mindset. He focuses on “trying to bring in that good energy at work.”

Outside of work, Antione is family-oriented and enjoys spending time with his 14-year-old daughter and his family, which includes eight brothers and two sisters. In his free time, he makes hip-hop music and plays basketball.

“I love helping people progress,” said Carl Richards, Director of Security at Saratoga Family Residence. “I let my staff know—if I can do it, you can do it, too.”

Carl began his career in residential security in the Lower East Side, where he worked for 23 years before a coworker referred him to HFH. He joined Saratoga Family Residence in 2019.

Carl quickly found his footing, and his trajectory has reflected his strong work ethic and steady leadership. He started as a Safety Supervisor, was promoted to Safety Operations Manager, and became Director of Security this year.

As Director of Security, Carl oversees all security operations including supervising staff, ensuring the building remains secure, managing daily check-ins, and coordinating chaperones for visitors and vendors. He is known for his steady demeanor, even in difficult moments, and for setting the tone for his team.

“As a leader, you have to be that calm person,” he said. “If your staff sees you not being flustered, they will follow you, because they know that during a tough situation, you can handle yourself.”

David Morris, Administrator at Saratoga, promoted Carl to Director of Security and has seen firsthand how well he fits the role.

“Carl has taken on the role well,” said David. “He is dedicated. Anything you need him to do; he is willing to do. You couldn’t ask for a better director.”

David added that Carl is receptive to new ideas, adapts easily when processes change, and consistently goes above and beyond.

“He is always open to ideas that can make his department better,” said David.

Carl has become a go-to presence not only at Saratoga but across HFH Family Residences.

“If something has to be handled at Saratoga, the name that comes up is Carl Richards,” David said. “There are people at other sites who know who he is and have known him for years—even though they don’t work here. Carl is doing the work.”

His coworkers describe him as dedicated and attentive to both his staff and the families.

“He goes out of his way to make the department run smoothly, and he often comes up with new ideas,” said Gilda Coronado, Deputy Administrator at Saratoga. “He pays attention—he knows the clients and what’s going on with them. He is very reliable.”

Andrea Prasad, Administrative Assistant, who has worked with Carl for over two years, shared a similar sentiment.

“He is attentive and concerned about his staff and the residents,” she said. “If something happens, he rushes to make sure everyone is okay. He always focuses on being productive and delivers his best at his job.”

Milagros “Millie” Gonzalez-Dixon, Office Manager at Saratoga who has worked with Carl for three years, has watched him grow steadily in his role.

“He is very warm and very friendly,” she said. “He is a leader. He is still learning, but he makes sure his staff knows what they are supposed to do. He teaches as he grows.”

Carl says the people at Saratoga are a major reason he enjoys coming to work.

“We have such a mix of people here—different backgrounds, different experiences—but we work together as a team to get the job done,” he said. “I like working with the staff here. We have a lot of experienced people.”

For Carl, supporting families is at the heart of the job. He makes a point to talk with residents, encourage them through difficult moments, and remind them of their own strength.

“Sometimes it’s hard—you can’t give up,” he said. “You just have to move forward.”

Every day, he focuses on making sure both residents and staff feel safe and supported. Even on the busiest days, that commitment guides him.

“My mindset is, no matter how hectic the job gets, it has to be done,” he said. “The safety of the staff and the clients is the number one priority. What keeps me going is making sure everyone is happy and that the facility is safe and secure.”

Carl is proud of how far he has come, and he is hopeful about what lies ahead.

“I am looking to advance,” he said. “Not to sell myself short—anything is possible.”

Outside of work, Carl enjoys going out and exploring New York City. He loves movies, exercising, trying new restaurants—especially seafood and Italian—and taking walks in the park.

“Knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s life—even in a small way—is what keeps me motivated,” said Jayda Gabriel, Chef at Allie’s Place Center for Culinary Education & Employment, where she leads the Pastry Arts course. “I want my students to leave here confident in their skills.”

Jayda’s introduction into the culinary world was inspired by her grandmother, who took baking classes at a local Michael’s: Arts & Crafts store.

“Every weekend, she’d have a whole new cake,” said Jayda. “Growing up I had all the pans, the tips, the books. I realized I was good at baking too! I was always creative, but having those resources at my fingertips gave me an advantage.”

By high school, Jayda was the go-to baker among her friends. She made cupcakes for birthdays and eventually people started paying her for the ingredients and her creations.

“That’s how it kind of started off,” said Jayda. “Every weekend I wanted to learn something new. I’d do research, make it, and share it with my family.”

That drive led her to pursue culinary training at Sullivan County Community College, after which she quickly entered the professional pastry world, working as a pastry cook at Marta—a fine dining Romanian-Italian restaurant in Manhattan—and later at Maison Kayser—a French artisanal bakery chain.

“I was still a newbie [at Maison Kayser], but I was teaching people with little to no culinary background how to produce massive quantities,” she said. “I realized I knew how to teach, which was a skill I hadn’t recognized in myself before.”

In April 2022, Jayda joined HFH as a Culinary Assistant, supporting the Culinary Essentials course. Her pastry background was quickly noticed, and she developed and launched the Pastry Arts course, earning a promotion to Chef. Today, she continues to teach Pastry Arts and additional workshops in pastry and barista training, now part of the Hospitality program.

“What attracted me to HFH is that I like to help people,” said Jayda. “Helping people experiencing homelessness and those in the surrounding community, teaching them a craft so they can make something more of their lives and get themselves established—that was a big factor for me.”

Jayda credits much of her drive to the encouragement she received at home.

“My mom always supported what I wanted to do, and she never questioned it,” she said. “She wanted me to be happy with whatever I ended up doing. She always said, ‘If you do what you love, you never work a day in your life.’”

That foundation of support continues to guide how Jayda shows up for her students, and it’s something her coworkers have seen shape her development as an instructor.

“I have seen so much growth from her from when she first came to HFH to now,” said Julissa Lantigua, Administrator at Allie’s Place Family Residence. “She shows so much confidence in the work she does. The students are engaged in her classes because she shows that motivation to want to teach them.”

“She is very intentional about what she teaches and how she teaches,” said Derrick Holman, Program Outreach Specialist at Allie’s Place Family Residence. “It really gives the program a vision. And the students can see that she really knows what she is doing.”

Director of Culinary Education Gregorio Pedroza, who has worked alongside Jayda for the past two years, emphasized her patience and artistry.

“What makes Chef Jayda an absolutely great instructor is that she is also just a great person,” he said. “I see her handle the ebbs and flows of her classes with such grace, skill, and humor. She is always retooling the curriculum to meet the needs of the students and the season. And when you see her plating food, it’s where her artistic eye really shines—everything is executed beautifully and tastes great.”

For Jayda, the heart of her teaching is meeting students where they are.

“Once I assess a person, I can figure out what they need,” she said. “I can have a class full of students, but I’m teaching them individually because everyone absorbs information differently.”

Her students echo this sentiment, noting the opportunity to collaborate with one another and the focus on problem solving in her classes.

“This class was excellent. I started this class without any previous experience, but Chef Jayda made it very easy to understand,” one graduate of the program said. “Her organizational skills are exceptional and the way she breaks down the recipes helped me understand the baking process.”

Jayda’s individualized approach pays off in ways that motivate her most.

“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing students’ confidence grow in the kitchen, especially when they come in not knowing anything,” said Jayda. “When I see them teaching newer students what I taught them, that’s when I know they’re retaining the information. They’ve become a resource for someone else—that makes me feel good.”

Beyond her teaching and leadership, Jayda strives to be a role model for future generations.

“When the kids from Afterschool programming come downstairs and see me in the kitchen, they’re waving and trying to look through the glass at what I’m making,” she said. “These kids look like me. I think that’s really cool because growing up, I never saw a Black female chef. Representation is so important—you never know how you can affect someone’s future.”

Outside of the classroom, Jayda’s creativity finds other outlets. She sews, experiments with ingredients (her current obsession: champagne mangoes), and takes solo trips inspired by food, like a recent barbecue-inspired visit to Tennessee. She also enjoys fishing, a hobby since childhood.

“There was something really special about being in a shelter setting, working with kids in an educational environment,” said Annamaria Santoro, Senior Director of Operations at HFH. “It really stuck with me. Anytime I go back to Prospect, I feel like I’m at home.”

Annamaria began her career in early education after earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in childhood education from Brooklyn College. Her first job out of school was teaching in the Early Childhood Education Center at HFH’s Prospect Family Residence. From the beginning, she was drawn to the shelter setting, and the experience planted a seed that would continue to shape her path.

“I was really looking to get more involved in community work,” said Annamaria. “I loved it—the kids were great—and it was just a really enriching experience. I felt like we were this little crew all learning together.”

John Greenwood, Executive Director at HFH, first worked with Annamaria during this time, when he was Assistant Administrator at Prospect.

“While technically I was one of her supervisors,” he said, “it didn’t stop her from yelling at me for interrupting her class when I wanted to come in and hang with the kids!”

That early experience sparked a broader interest in social impact—leading Annamaria to Chicago to pursue a dual master’s degree in school counseling and community counseling at DePaul University. She eventually returned to New York and continued to gain additional experience in the non-profit sector before becoming the Director of Community Partnerships at Housing Works, deepening her expertise in non-profit operations and programming.

Over time, Annamaria realized she wanted her work to directly impact children again—and that her varied experiences had prepared her to do just that. In 2018, John recruited her to return to HFH.

“She’s been one of my go-to crisis managers, fixers, implementers, and advisors since she came back,” he said.

At HFH, Annamaria’s role has steadily evolved. When she rejoined the organization, she focused on family services and social work—but soon, her impact grew. Today, as Senior Director of Operations, she helps oversee additional critical program areas including education, compliance (meeting regulatory requirements), the Culinary program at Allie’s Place, and HFH Summer Camps.

“Over the past five years, I’ve watched Annamaria grow tremendously into what I consider my right hand in the operation,” said Gretchen Hernandez, Deputy Executive Director at HFH. “She is unique in her ability to adapt to any situation presented to her, her proactive approach to challenges, and her eagerness to learn.”

Annamaria noted that her role at HFH has merged her professional worlds.

“Operations gave me the chance to apply my background in counseling and education, while also contributing to the systems that shape how we support children and families.”

Her work is wide-ranging: supporting teams in developing and implementing trainings, strengthening relationships with City agencies—including the Department of Homeless Services and the Department of Education—and guiding programming across HFH sites.

“Anna has become an essential leader at HFH,” said John. “Folks from all departments and shelters look to her for guidance—in all areas. She’s as good a listener as she is a doer.”

Annamaria is known for being collaborative, dependable, and thoughtful—with a bright personality that makes an impact.

“I have always seen her as a very strong supervisor—someone who leads with confidence, genuinely cares about us as individuals, and consistently supports her team,” said Heidy Mendez, Senior Program Compliance Associate who has reported to Annamaria for three years. “She is understanding and flexible, which I truly appreciate. I’ve learned a great deal from her; she is both a mentor and a leader.”

Camp Administrator Tyrone Squire, who’s worked closely with her for three years, said she brings energy and heart to the role.

“Watching her communicate with partners and vendors, you can see how much she cares about camp and HFH—it shows her passion. She’s also creative and brings a fun quirkiness to everything she does. People enjoy being around her.”

Alfonsina Gomez, Administrator at Williamsbridge Family Residence, who has worked with Annamaria for the past six years emphasized that Anna helps others express themselves.

“She makes us part of the solution; she includes us, and we both learn from the experience. Her support, guidance, empathy, and camaraderie are exceptional.”

For Annamaria, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing families make progress—no matter how big or small.

“Success doesn’t have to be a big thing—it can be a mom signing her child up for childcare after being hesitant,” she said. “That’s a big step. That’s worth celebrating.”

Outside of work, Annamaria enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

“Basically, whatever my daughter wants to do is what we do,” said Annamaria.

Lately, she’s been experimenting in the kitchen with cozy, comforting recipes—from braised short ribs to Japanese onigiri.

“I want to make [the residents] feel welcome by making them comfortable—being on top of things and making sure their unit is good,” said Hulberto “Bert” Martinez, Building Operations Manager at Island Family Residence. “I feel like that gives them a little push so they can keep moving forward in their journey. They can worry about other things, and they don’t have to worry that they won’t have any heat, or other small things that make a huge difference.”

Bert joined HFH six years ago, starting in maintenance at Saratoga Family Residence before transferring to Island Family Residence in 2019. He found the position at Saratoga online while looking to make a career shift from working in the restaurant industry—where he frequently took on handyman tasks—to a more dedicated maintenance role. Growing up, Bert learned building repairs from his father, who worked in construction, and he often tackled projects around the house. Drawn to HFH’s mission, Bert saw this opportunity as a way to not only use his skills but also contribute to a cause that resonated with him.

“I like what they do [at HFH]—helping people in need and helping the community,” said Bert. “I feel like I am making a difference in someone’s life. I feel like I have the same mindset as the organization with what they are doing.”

Shortly after joining Island Family Residence, Bert was promoted to Building Operations Manager, a role in which he oversees critical building operations to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely—from plumbing to electrical.

“The residents’ safety is a priority to him. He puts the residents first and makes sure they are safe and comfortable,” said Melissa Halloran, Assistant Administrator at Island Family Residence.

Bert’s prior experience working in maintenance at both Saratoga and Island enables him to be an effective supervisor for his staff.

“It’s all hands-on deck—whatever [my staff] need I am always there with them,” said Bert. “If they have questions, I am always there to help them out.”

“He is always looking to learn new things, and he is not afraid to get his hands dirty—he won’t tell his staff to do something without him doing it, too,” said Lori Bowen, Administrator at Island Family Residence.

Not only is Bert dependable for the residents and a mentor to his staff, but he is also a valued colleague for his contagious positivity and reliability.

“He just builds you up,” said Melissa. “No matter what it is, he is always right there and supports [the staff] no matter what. When things are crazy, he brings calmness to everything.”

“He is always smiling and has a good attitude. He is very level-headed, loyal, and takes pride in his job,” Lori added.

Bert spends most of his free time with his family, with whom he is very close. He loves walking on the boardwalk at the beach with his youngest daughter and playing and watching sports, especially football—he is a big Jets fan.

“Working for HFH … it’s meaningful. I like what they stand for—what [we] are contributing to society,” said Eric Smith, Director of Building Operations at Prospect Family Residence. “I have a great relationship with this [organization]. To see people who are in an unfortunate situation … to grow and have a different outlook on life, it makes it all worth it for me.”

Eric began his journey with HFH 37 years ago at Saratoga Family Residence, where he started as a porter coordinator. Through dedication and hard work, he has grown with HFH—from supervising porters and maintenance teams to his current role as Director of Building Operations at Prospect.

“I enjoy every bit of [my work] here,” said Eric. “When I leave this place, I can leave it with a smile. When I retire, I want to do some kind of community service … and this would be a nice place to come back and help.”

Eric’s commitment to HFH is evident in everything he does, from resolving mechanical issues to mentoring his team of buildings staff. His philosophy of giving his best and helping others shines through his every action.

“He is a wonderful man,” said Victor Altenor, Maintenance Worker at Saratoga Family Residence—where Eric worked for 14 years as his supervisor. Victor has known Eric for 36 years. “Eric is a devoted guy. When he is at work, he is one of the guys who really gives 100%. If you don’t know something, he is happy to teach you. I am very happy to work with him and to know him as a person and as a boss.”

As Director of Building Operations, Eric’s responsibilities are vast and varied—from addressing plumbing and electrical issues to landscaping and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the facility.

“He just takes pride in his work. He is loyal to HFH, to this building, and to his job,” said Marisol Santiago, Administrator at Prospect, who has worked with Eric for nearly 14 years. “He knows from top to bottom what he has to take care of, and he cares about his team, which is fantastic. You can always depend on Eric when it comes to learning something about this building.”

Apart from his exceptional work ethic and mentorship, Eric is known for his attentiveness to ensuring the safety and well-being of the children at Prospect.

“Anything for the kids … if he sees that something [needs to be updated] with the playground, he will make sure that it gets fixed properly and safely so that the kids can enjoy their time here,” said Marisol.

Eric’s passion for helping others and his love for his work are deeply rooted in his upbringing.

“I learned to be kind from day one. My parents were very kind. I remember as a kid I had friends at school who didn’t have a place [to stay], and I would just bring my friends home. My family was a giving family. These were our values,” Eric said.

Outside of work, Eric enjoys working on small projects around his house and indulging in his passion for gardening.

“I enjoy the beauty of flowers,” Eric said. “Gardening around my house. Planting flowers, plum trees, vegetables—I enjoy the beauty of flowers.”