WEBVTT Kind: captions Language: en 1 00:00:00.910 --> 00:00:01.050 [SPEAKER_0] Hi, 2 00:00:01.150 --> 00:00:01.370 [SPEAKER_0] Dr. 3 00:00:01.470 --> 00:00:01.910 [SPEAKER_0] Yolanda. 4 00:00:02.270 --> 00:00:03.270 [SPEAKER_0] I'm Michael May. 5 00:00:03.510 --> 00:00:03.830 [SPEAKER_0] Hi, 6 00:00:03.870 --> 00:00:05.130 [SPEAKER_0] I'm Alexa Burko. 7 00:00:05.850 --> 00:00:06.890 [SPEAKER_0] I'm Sabrina Barrera. 8 00:00:07.570 --> 00:00:08.610 [SPEAKER_0] I'm Basilette Tassazou. 9 00:00:09.410 --> 00:00:10.250 [SPEAKER_4] I'm Brittany Benjamin. 10 00:00:10.950 --> 00:00:14.610 [SPEAKER_0] And we are public health students who wanted to use our community 11 00:00:14.611 --> 00:00:19.321 [SPEAKER_0] spotlight to highlight the important work that you and Connectémonos 12 00:00:19.322 --> 00:00:22.162 [SPEAKER_0] have been doing in Inwood and Washington Heights. 13 00:00:22.300 --> 00:00:24.740 [SPEAKER_0] If you could introduce yourself and the organization. 14 00:00:26.200 --> 00:00:26.280 [SPEAKER_1] And. 15 00:00:26.670 --> 00:00:26.910 [SPEAKER_1] Dr. 16 00:00:26.970 --> 00:00:28.070 [SPEAKER_1] Rosa Yolanda Pineda, 17 00:00:28.071 --> 00:00:32.550 [SPEAKER_1] I am a retired administrative psychologist from the New York City 18 00:00:32.551 --> 00:00:33.252 [SPEAKER_1] Department of Education. 19 00:00:34.590 --> 00:00:36.930 [SPEAKER_1] where I worked for 28 years. 20 00:00:37.320 --> 00:00:37.520 [SPEAKER_1] Good. 21 00:00:37.730 --> 00:00:40.310 [SPEAKER_1] I've been living in Washington Heights since the 70s. 22 00:00:41.780 --> 00:00:43.020 [SPEAKER_1] So this is like a second home. 23 00:00:43.840 --> 00:00:48.140 [SPEAKER_1] and I have always been involved in Community organising. 24 00:00:49.060 --> 00:00:49.740 [SPEAKER_1] Inconectémonos, 25 00:00:49.741 --> 00:00:53.901 [SPEAKER_1] an organization that I brought together with my son Omar Gonzalez. 26 00:00:55.820 --> 00:00:59.820 [SPEAKER_1] We are looking to reclaim green and open spaces. 27 00:01:01.370 --> 00:01:01.950 [SPEAKER_1] Because. 28 00:01:03.260 --> 00:01:03.880 [SPEAKER_1] I changed that. 29 00:01:04.709 --> 00:01:05.610 [SPEAKER_1] green and open spaces, 30 00:01:05.770 --> 00:01:06.930 [SPEAKER_1] particularly in urban settings. 31 00:01:07.900 --> 00:01:14.900 [SPEAKER_1] This is a great opportunity for us people to involve young people in 32 00:01:14.901 --> 00:01:17.441 [SPEAKER_1] reclaiming the land and being land stewards. 33 00:01:18.730 --> 00:01:20.810 [SPEAKER_1] and bring cultural relevant programs. 34 00:01:22.060 --> 00:01:23.720 [SPEAKER_1] The first screen and open space. 35 00:01:24.620 --> 00:01:25.820 [SPEAKER_1] That we reclaim. 36 00:01:26.140 --> 00:01:28.760 [SPEAKER_1] That's the West 186-3 basketball court. 37 00:01:30.120 --> 00:01:31.000 [SPEAKER_1] We secure funding. 38 00:01:32.940 --> 00:01:33.500 [SPEAKER_1] Put $1 million. 39 00:01:35.050 --> 00:01:36.750 [SPEAKER_1] and is under the renovation. 40 00:01:38.530 --> 00:01:39.890 [SPEAKER_1] It should be completed this summer. 41 00:01:41.430 --> 00:01:44.030 [SPEAKER_1] and the second space that we have reclaimed. 42 00:01:44.640 --> 00:01:47.840 [SPEAKER_1] is behind the George Washington Educational Campus. 43 00:01:48.890 --> 00:01:52.030 [SPEAKER_1] We reclaimed the space in the summer of 2019. 44 00:01:53.680 --> 00:01:53.780 [SPEAKER_1] uh, 45 00:01:53.781 --> 00:01:57.741 [SPEAKER_1] with summer youth employment program that's that's our signature program. 46 00:01:59.500 --> 00:02:00.920 [SPEAKER_1] And in 2021, 47 00:02:01.300 --> 00:02:04.200 [SPEAKER_1] it was approved by the superintendent and the school community, 48 00:02:04.400 --> 00:02:06.240 [SPEAKER_1] another space that we have been reclaiming. 49 00:02:06.960 --> 00:02:08.960 [SPEAKER_1] is so broader in Washington Heights. 50 00:02:09.060 --> 00:02:10.120 [SPEAKER_1] We have Highbridge Park. 51 00:02:11.820 --> 00:02:13.640 [SPEAKER_1] that it goes from 155th to Dykeman. 52 00:02:14.880 --> 00:02:19.500 [SPEAKER_1] and and it's a beautiful park with a lot of potential and yet. 53 00:02:20.180 --> 00:02:20.780 [SPEAKER_1] a lot of challenges. 54 00:02:22.760 --> 00:02:24.260 [SPEAKER_1] What are the challenges on safety? 55 00:02:25.580 --> 00:02:29.070 [SPEAKER_1] the fact that we share it with the park with it on house. 56 00:02:30.250 --> 00:02:31.650 [SPEAKER_1] people that we have in the community. 57 00:02:33.610 --> 00:02:37.990 [SPEAKER_1] There is a particular session on 7th Avenue and 175th. 58 00:02:39.240 --> 00:02:39.580 [SPEAKER_1] That I, 59 00:02:39.660 --> 00:02:40.340 [SPEAKER_1] yes, 60 00:02:40.341 --> 00:02:41.061 [SPEAKER_1] it's challenging, 61 00:02:41.280 --> 00:02:42.880 [SPEAKER_1] but I see the potential that it has. 62 00:02:44.020 --> 00:02:47.060 [SPEAKER_1] So last year we began to reclaim the session of the park. 63 00:02:48.100 --> 00:02:48.360 [SPEAKER_1] However, 64 00:02:48.480 --> 00:02:53.140 [SPEAKER_1] some youth employment were involved in removing invasive species. 65 00:02:55.269 --> 00:02:58.590 [SPEAKER_1] And we then came back to do some planting. 66 00:02:59.730 --> 00:03:01.150 [SPEAKER_1] And this year we're very excited. 67 00:03:01.710 --> 00:03:03.870 [SPEAKER_1] Because there is a soccer field right there. 68 00:03:04.870 --> 00:03:05.830 [SPEAKER_1] And it's um, 69 00:03:05.831 --> 00:03:10.391 [SPEAKER_1] I don't know if you know but it's the soccer world cup this July and 70 00:03:10.392 --> 00:03:14.212 [SPEAKER_1] July and we are planning to reactivate the soccer field. 71 00:03:15.090 --> 00:03:20.370 [SPEAKER_1] So we are in conversation with local CBOs and schools. 72 00:03:21.180 --> 00:03:27.820 [SPEAKER_1] To bring that soccer viewing and clinics to that part of Highbridge Park. 73 00:03:28.710 --> 00:03:32.730 [SPEAKER_1] Our signature program is the DYCD, 74 00:03:32.930 --> 00:03:35.490 [SPEAKER_1] Department of Youth and Community Development Youth. 75 00:03:36.860 --> 00:03:38.260 [SPEAKER_1] That they get paid interest. 76 00:03:39.290 --> 00:03:39.990 [SPEAKER_1] In the summer, 77 00:03:39.991 --> 00:03:41.171 [SPEAKER_1] mostly in the summertime, 78 00:03:42.150 --> 00:03:43.570 [SPEAKER_1] but I also have a winter session. 79 00:03:44.910 --> 00:03:46.790 [SPEAKER_1] We started a pilot project. 80 00:03:47.660 --> 00:03:51.630 [SPEAKER_1] Where the interns who will become agents of social change in their community. 81 00:03:52.670 --> 00:03:56.770 [SPEAKER_1] So we are finishing that program now in March. 82 00:03:57.930 --> 00:04:01.460 [SPEAKER_1] And we are piloting the curriculum for the summertime. 83 00:04:02.690 --> 00:04:06.190 [SPEAKER_1] Where we are involving the interns. 84 00:04:07.010 --> 00:04:07.330 [SPEAKER_1] Um, 85 00:04:08.180 --> 00:04:09.300 [SPEAKER_1] to expand the program. 86 00:04:10.170 --> 00:04:15.310 [SPEAKER_1] And that's what we're doing this summer as part of the Open Street. 87 00:04:15.590 --> 00:04:17.570 [SPEAKER_1] Open Street is part of the community. 88 00:04:18.820 --> 00:04:21.860 [SPEAKER_1] of that of the Department of Transportation of New York City. 89 00:04:22.740 --> 00:04:24.780 [SPEAKER_1] So we are making. 90 00:04:26.600 --> 00:04:30.020 [SPEAKER_1] One block on Audubon Avenue accessible to the community. 91 00:04:30.240 --> 00:04:32.600 [SPEAKER_1] So we'll be there in July and August. 92 00:04:34.260 --> 00:04:36.440 [SPEAKER_1] and we use that as a classroom lab. 93 00:04:37.500 --> 00:04:38.600 [SPEAKER_1] to bring our young people. 94 00:04:39.660 --> 00:04:41.020 [SPEAKER_1] So we do that part. 95 00:04:42.010 --> 00:04:46.830 [SPEAKER_1] um of the program in the open street and we also do the high bridge 96 00:04:48.020 --> 00:04:52.580 [SPEAKER_1] um that I was talking to you about the high bridge park And we also do. 97 00:04:54.110 --> 00:04:55.550 [SPEAKER_1] Community gardens in the Bronx. 98 00:04:56.890 --> 00:05:00.570 [SPEAKER_1] So that's what we're going to be continue to be involved this summer. 99 00:05:01.130 --> 00:05:02.230 [SPEAKER_0] Thank you so much for sharing. 100 00:05:02.690 --> 00:05:05.330 [SPEAKER_0] So how would you define the mission, 101 00:05:05.490 --> 00:05:08.070 [SPEAKER_0] the overall mission and goal of Conectémonos? 102 00:05:09.550 --> 00:05:14.350 [SPEAKER_1] Our mission is to reclaim green and open spaces and make it 103 00:05:14.351 --> 00:05:18.931 [SPEAKER_1] accessible to the community. 104 00:05:18.932 --> 00:05:20.572 [SPEAKER_1] Programming, 105 00:05:21.500 --> 00:05:23.400 [SPEAKER_1] including urban farming. 106 00:05:24.700 --> 00:05:28.180 [SPEAKER_1] um We do this. 107 00:05:29.310 --> 00:05:34.730 [SPEAKER_1] In combination with an intergenerational group of people from the 108 00:05:34.731 --> 00:05:36.291 [SPEAKER_1] community of different ages. 109 00:05:37.990 --> 00:05:41.190 [SPEAKER_1] And focusing on the young people because I think that we. 110 00:05:43.490 --> 00:05:47.630 [SPEAKER_1] The elderly people have a responsibility to younger generation to 111 00:05:47.631 --> 00:05:49.851 [SPEAKER_1] pass on our collective intelligence. 112 00:05:50.960 --> 00:05:55.490 [SPEAKER_1] To be learners with them because young people have a lot to 113 00:05:55.491 --> 00:05:57.571 [SPEAKER_1] contribute and we have a lot to learn from them. 114 00:05:59.880 --> 00:06:02.820 [SPEAKER_1] So we are looking to have healthier community. 115 00:06:05.140 --> 00:06:06.680 [SPEAKER_1] Healthier emotionally, 116 00:06:06.900 --> 00:06:07.420 [SPEAKER_1] physically, 117 00:06:08.510 --> 00:06:08.730 [SPEAKER_1] Um. 118 00:06:09.570 --> 00:06:12.870 [SPEAKER_1] Give the people the sense of growing the warm food. 119 00:06:13.370 --> 00:06:14.470 [SPEAKER_1] Many of our young people. 120 00:06:16.260 --> 00:06:16.760 [SPEAKER_1] You know, 121 00:06:16.820 --> 00:06:21.770 [SPEAKER_1] they They lack the concepts of from the food, 122 00:06:21.950 --> 00:06:23.450 [SPEAKER_1] from the farm to the table. 123 00:06:23.690 --> 00:06:27.510 [SPEAKER_1] What does that have to do with anything? 124 00:06:28.340 --> 00:06:31.060 [SPEAKER_1] So we're really excited about that. 125 00:06:32.170 --> 00:06:34.350 [SPEAKER_1] And we understand that we cannot do this alone. 126 00:06:35.600 --> 00:06:37.900 [SPEAKER_1] So that the partnerships are very important. 127 00:06:38.250 --> 00:06:41.310 [SPEAKER_1] The education component and the youth participation. 128 00:06:42.630 --> 00:06:44.460 [SPEAKER_5] So I just wanted to reintroduce myself. 129 00:06:44.580 --> 00:06:45.000 [SPEAKER_5] I'm Sabrina. 130 00:06:45.720 --> 00:06:47.880 [SPEAKER_5] Really appreciate you coming to talk to us today. 131 00:06:48.620 --> 00:06:49.740 [SPEAKER_5] I just wanted to start off. 132 00:06:50.360 --> 00:06:50.620 [SPEAKER_5] Thank you. 133 00:06:51.020 --> 00:06:53.740 [SPEAKER_5] Can you tell us about your background in social justice and what led 134 00:06:53.741 --> 00:06:55.081 [SPEAKER_5] you to work in community leadership? 135 00:06:55.810 --> 00:06:58.970 [SPEAKER_1] I have always been curious about social justice. 136 00:06:59.310 --> 00:07:01.970 [SPEAKER_1] I am originally from the Dominican Republic. 137 00:07:03.190 --> 00:07:05.010 [SPEAKER_1] And I remember being in high school. 138 00:07:06.390 --> 00:07:11.500 [SPEAKER_1] And I have an interest in public funding for a public university. 139 00:07:13.680 --> 00:07:18.680 [SPEAKER_1] That was the first university in the Americas: the Autonomous 140 00:07:18.681 --> 00:07:19.601 [SPEAKER_1] University of Santo Domingo. 141 00:07:20.990 --> 00:07:22.910 [SPEAKER_1] In the Santo Domingo, 142 00:07:22.911 --> 00:07:24.751 [SPEAKER_1] in the capital of the Dominican Republic. 143 00:07:24.990 --> 00:07:25.930 [SPEAKER_1] So I remember, 144 00:07:25.931 --> 00:07:28.351 [SPEAKER_1] from back when I was a student in the DR, 145 00:07:29.280 --> 00:07:35.670 [SPEAKER_1] to be to become part of a just time budget for their university. 146 00:07:36.820 --> 00:07:39.620 [SPEAKER_1] Um and then I came here in the 70s. 147 00:07:39.621 --> 00:07:40.481 [SPEAKER_1] I mean, 148 00:07:40.482 --> 00:07:41.762 [SPEAKER_1] it is, 149 00:07:41.763 --> 00:07:47.383 [SPEAKER_1] and it was a vibrant community of of of immigrants, 150 00:07:47.760 --> 00:07:50.800 [SPEAKER_1] people looking for their place in their society. 151 00:07:52.040 --> 00:07:54.560 [SPEAKER_1] So I became part of the student movement. 152 00:07:56.010 --> 00:07:56.570 [SPEAKER_1] In the bronze. 153 00:07:58.200 --> 00:07:59.660 [SPEAKER_1] As part of Hostos Community College. 154 00:08:01.000 --> 00:08:01.360 [SPEAKER_1] Um. 155 00:08:02.330 --> 00:08:02.810 [SPEAKER_1] Once again, 156 00:08:02.890 --> 00:08:06.650 [SPEAKER_1] we were reclaiming spaces that were not accessible to the students. 157 00:08:07.940 --> 00:08:11.800 [SPEAKER_1] And we were able to occupy and to secure the 500. 158 00:08:12.850 --> 00:08:13.630 [SPEAKER_1] in grand concourse. 159 00:08:14.530 --> 00:08:19.340 [SPEAKER_1] And and hostess community college is a well-established two-year 160 00:08:19.341 --> 00:08:25.841 [SPEAKER_1] college now for for immigrants and for newly arrived young people in the community. 161 00:08:27.240 --> 00:08:28.560 [SPEAKER_1] So from the student movement, 162 00:08:30.080 --> 00:08:31.260 [SPEAKER_1] and from Hostos, 163 00:08:31.300 --> 00:08:35.120 [SPEAKER_1] I then went to a four-year college, 164 00:08:35.320 --> 00:08:39.260 [SPEAKER_1] a city college that is right here in the south end of Washington Heights. 165 00:08:40.669 --> 00:08:42.190 [SPEAKER_1] And from that, 166 00:08:42.289 --> 00:08:43.490 [SPEAKER_1] from the student movement, 167 00:08:43.650 --> 00:08:45.050 [SPEAKER_1] we made a transition. 168 00:08:46.160 --> 00:08:47.180 [SPEAKER_1] To community organizing. 169 00:08:49.310 --> 00:08:53.930 [SPEAKER_1] and so one of the first organizations and that I was a founder 170 00:08:53.931 --> 00:08:59.091 [SPEAKER_1] member of that was the Community Association of Progressive Dominicans. 171 00:09:00.330 --> 00:09:01.870 [SPEAKER_1] At the end of the 70s, 172 00:09:01.871 --> 00:09:03.091 [SPEAKER_1] beginning of the 80s, 173 00:09:04.280 --> 00:09:04.820 [SPEAKER_1] and we, 174 00:09:05.000 --> 00:09:05.500 [SPEAKER_1] Dominica, 175 00:09:05.501 --> 00:09:07.001 [SPEAKER_1] were a very new community. 176 00:09:08.130 --> 00:09:13.820 [SPEAKER_1] But we started telling people about the need to organize here in the 177 00:09:13.821 --> 00:09:15.021 [SPEAKER_1] States where we were living. 178 00:09:15.760 --> 00:09:16.660 [SPEAKER_1] In New York City, 179 00:09:18.140 --> 00:09:19.660 [SPEAKER_1] and that was not very welcome. 180 00:09:20.760 --> 00:09:23.260 [SPEAKER_1] Because it's an immigrant community, 181 00:09:23.261 --> 00:09:25.561 [SPEAKER_1] we think that we're going to go back home. 182 00:09:25.562 --> 00:09:26.422 [SPEAKER_1] So, 183 00:09:26.423 --> 00:09:27.123 [SPEAKER_1] to tell them this, 184 00:09:27.124 --> 00:09:30.184 [SPEAKER_1] chances are that we are not going back home and we're going to stay here. 185 00:09:30.185 --> 00:09:30.425 [SPEAKER_1] So, 186 00:09:30.426 --> 00:09:31.366 [SPEAKER_1] let's organize here. 187 00:09:32.140 --> 00:09:32.400 [SPEAKER_1] So, 188 00:09:32.401 --> 00:09:38.551 [SPEAKER_1] we began organizing by providing basic needs that they needed. 189 00:09:38.552 --> 00:09:43.742 [SPEAKER_1] Those basic needs look like they look like immigration clinics, 190 00:09:43.743 --> 00:09:47.163 [SPEAKER_1] they look like after-school programs for the children, 191 00:09:47.164 --> 00:09:50.724 [SPEAKER_1] and they look like English as a second language. 192 00:09:52.040 --> 00:09:53.060 [SPEAKER_1] And more importantly, 193 00:09:53.340 --> 00:09:56.720 [SPEAKER_1] they look like having representation in the school board. 194 00:09:57.690 --> 00:10:00.030 [SPEAKER_1] The school board was dismantled. 195 00:10:00.860 --> 00:10:01.500 [SPEAKER_1] Unfortunately, 196 00:10:01.780 --> 00:10:06.920 [SPEAKER_1] but the school board— the only requirement was that you had a child 197 00:10:06.921 --> 00:10:11.361 [SPEAKER_1] in the public school system and you'd be able to decide how a school 198 00:10:11.362 --> 00:10:13.062 [SPEAKER_1] district was going to run. 199 00:10:14.550 --> 00:10:18.770 [SPEAKER_1] So that was a big gain for this community, 200 00:10:18.771 --> 00:10:21.091 [SPEAKER_1] where we registered more than 10, 201 00:10:21.092 --> 00:10:21.672 [SPEAKER_1] 000 parents. 202 00:10:22.730 --> 00:10:25.670 [SPEAKER_1] And we began to change the faces in the school board. 203 00:10:26.820 --> 00:10:32.410 [SPEAKER_1] and to have more representation of us and to have more programs that 204 00:10:32.411 --> 00:10:34.491 [SPEAKER_1] will support the change in the population, 205 00:10:34.770 --> 00:10:36.030 [SPEAKER_1] more bilingual programs. 206 00:10:36.890 --> 00:10:42.250 [SPEAKER_1] That we will have more schools named after people of Latino 207 00:10:42.251 --> 00:10:44.771 [SPEAKER_1] background that had an influence in this community. 208 00:10:45.950 --> 00:10:51.150 [SPEAKER_1] And we also brought the first Latina woman— as the superintendent of District 6. 209 00:10:52.110 --> 00:10:56.730 [SPEAKER_1] So that came from the transition of the student movement to the 210 00:10:56.731 --> 00:10:57.531 [SPEAKER_1] community organizing. 211 00:10:58.660 --> 00:10:58.920 [SPEAKER_1] Oh. 212 00:11:00.270 --> 00:11:01.750 [SPEAKER_1] 70s and 80s, 213 00:11:01.751 --> 00:11:06.441 [SPEAKER_1] I have a great passion for for places and and And Washington Heights is my home. 214 00:11:06.860 --> 00:11:07.100 [SPEAKER_1] Monday. 215 00:11:07.920 --> 00:11:08.780 [SPEAKER_1] If that'll do it. 216 00:11:09.170 --> 00:11:09.650 [SPEAKER_1] Nobody else. 217 00:11:09.930 --> 00:11:11.130 [SPEAKER_1] This is gonna come to save us. 218 00:11:13.430 --> 00:11:15.230 [SPEAKER_5] I absolutely agree with you and I think that's amazing. 219 00:11:17.050 --> 00:11:17.750 [SPEAKER_5] Another question is, 220 00:11:17.830 --> 00:11:19.630 [SPEAKER_5] what made you decide to name the organization? 221 00:11:22.830 --> 00:11:22.970 [SPEAKER_1] Well, 222 00:11:22.971 --> 00:11:23.851 [SPEAKER_1] it's a Spanish word. 223 00:11:24.090 --> 00:11:26.670 [SPEAKER_1] It's 'connect.' Emonos. 224 00:11:28.650 --> 00:11:32.760 [SPEAKER_1] And what we are looking to do is to connect with people. 225 00:11:33.980 --> 00:11:35.700 [SPEAKER_1] That care about social justice issues. 226 00:11:37.070 --> 00:11:40.630 [SPEAKER_1] Particularly environmental issues and food justice issues. 227 00:11:42.330 --> 00:11:45.940 [SPEAKER_1] and And when I say to care, 228 00:11:46.100 --> 00:11:47.520 [SPEAKER_1] it's to do something about it. 229 00:11:49.180 --> 00:11:51.140 [SPEAKER_1] Because I could care and not take any action. 230 00:11:52.800 --> 00:11:55.780 [SPEAKER_1] But it's to care and do something for the community. 231 00:11:56.640 --> 00:11:58.910 [SPEAKER_1] And we have been taking action, 232 00:11:59.030 --> 00:11:59.830 [SPEAKER_1] for example. 233 00:12:00.910 --> 00:12:02.830 [SPEAKER_1] Can say hi bridge part. 234 00:12:04.140 --> 00:12:04.960 [SPEAKER_1] At the north end. 235 00:12:05.790 --> 00:12:09.320 [SPEAKER_1] 99193 Um, 236 00:12:09.870 --> 00:12:10.330 [SPEAKER_1] wheat. 237 00:12:10.770 --> 00:12:11.270 [SPEAKER_1] Started. 238 00:12:12.930 --> 00:12:14.230 [SPEAKER_1] A planting for healing. 239 00:12:14.900 --> 00:12:15.880 [SPEAKER_1] And every fall, 240 00:12:16.140 --> 00:12:19.100 [SPEAKER_1] we come together as a community. 241 00:12:21.130 --> 00:12:21.610 [SPEAKER_1] And we plant. 242 00:12:22.480 --> 00:12:23.040 [SPEAKER_1] Bulbs. 243 00:12:23.760 --> 00:12:25.660 [SPEAKER_1] and those are the bolts, 244 00:12:25.661 --> 00:12:28.541 [SPEAKER_1] are planted like like they are in the onion family, 245 00:12:29.520 --> 00:12:31.360 [SPEAKER_1] and they are planted during the fall, 246 00:12:31.361 --> 00:12:34.361 [SPEAKER_1] and those are the first flowers that you see early spring. 247 00:12:35.560 --> 00:12:35.720 [SPEAKER_1] So, 248 00:12:35.721 --> 00:12:39.081 [SPEAKER_1] like the daffodils and the tulips and things like that. 249 00:12:40.110 --> 00:12:40.410 [SPEAKER_1] So, 250 00:12:40.411 --> 00:12:45.791 [SPEAKER_1] we've been bringing different parts of the Washington Heights inward 251 00:12:45.792 --> 00:12:49.012 [SPEAKER_1] community this past fall. 252 00:12:50.560 --> 00:12:52.980 [SPEAKER_1] We did an interfaith planting. 253 00:12:54.140 --> 00:12:56.460 [SPEAKER_1] where people from different faiths came together. 254 00:12:57.460 --> 00:13:01.850 [SPEAKER_1] and and um And we came and planted for peace. 255 00:13:02.520 --> 00:13:04.960 [SPEAKER_1] We also started some work with St. 256 00:13:05.140 --> 00:13:05.980 [SPEAKER_1] Elizabeth Church. 257 00:13:06.200 --> 00:13:11.020 [SPEAKER_1] We are bringing the church out in the community to connect. 258 00:13:11.240 --> 00:13:12.880 [SPEAKER_1] We did a planting there. 259 00:13:13.640 --> 00:13:15.000 [SPEAKER_1] We connected that with. 260 00:13:15.900 --> 00:13:19.820 [SPEAKER_1] The families that are going through the changes because of the immigration issues. 261 00:13:21.200 --> 00:13:23.040 [SPEAKER_1] So we invited a particular family. 262 00:13:24.110 --> 00:13:24.330 [SPEAKER_1] Ow. 263 00:13:26.280 --> 00:13:27.240 [SPEAKER_1] That needed some healing. 264 00:13:27.420 --> 00:13:30.440 [SPEAKER_1] We wanted to give her some love and to say, 'Listen, 265 00:13:30.580 --> 00:13:33.520 [SPEAKER_1] come and plant with us.' And that was— that was a beautiful. 266 00:13:35.360 --> 00:13:36.540 [SPEAKER_1] There was a beautiful connection. 267 00:13:37.680 --> 00:13:38.200 [SPEAKER_1] Luckily, 268 00:13:38.480 --> 00:13:39.840 [SPEAKER_1] the woman was not deported. 269 00:13:40.730 --> 00:13:41.090 [SPEAKER_1] She stayed. 270 00:13:42.180 --> 00:13:42.980 [SPEAKER_1] with us in the community. 271 00:13:44.170 --> 00:13:48.490 [SPEAKER_1] and and it was the connecting the using planting as a healing and 272 00:13:48.491 --> 00:13:51.441 [SPEAKER_1] also to address or the social issue. 273 00:13:51.730 --> 00:13:51.910 [SPEAKER_4] Thank you. 274 00:13:52.510 --> 00:13:53.250 [SPEAKER_1] Social immigration. 275 00:13:54.080 --> 00:13:54.420 [SPEAKER_1] As you know, 276 00:13:54.540 --> 00:13:56.060 [SPEAKER_1] this is this community. 277 00:13:57.180 --> 00:14:00.280 [SPEAKER_1] Washington Heights inward has been a community of immigrants for 278 00:14:00.281 --> 00:14:02.441 [SPEAKER_1] many generations and that have not changed. 279 00:14:03.340 --> 00:14:04.280 [SPEAKER_1] And I think that that is. 280 00:14:05.210 --> 00:14:10.570 [SPEAKER_1] One of our strengths and so to the extent that we can connect to each other. 281 00:14:11.520 --> 00:14:13.380 [SPEAKER_1] And support social justice issues. 282 00:14:15.150 --> 00:14:15.490 [SPEAKER_1] We're okay. 283 00:14:17.110 --> 00:14:19.350 [SPEAKER_1] We could make it to this. 284 00:14:20.300 --> 00:14:22.290 [SPEAKER_1] This is that we're going through, 285 00:14:22.430 --> 00:14:23.890 [SPEAKER_1] which is very challenging. 286 00:14:24.320 --> 00:14:26.740 [SPEAKER_3] I think that's a very powerful way of connecting the community. 287 00:14:26.840 --> 00:14:27.820 [SPEAKER_3] That sounds really amazing. 288 00:14:28.840 --> 00:14:29.240 [SPEAKER_3] Um. 289 00:14:29.920 --> 00:14:33.560 [SPEAKER_3] Our next question is: you mentioned a little bit about this previously, 290 00:14:33.561 --> 00:14:34.361 [SPEAKER_3] but um, 291 00:14:34.362 --> 00:14:38.602 [SPEAKER_3] how does connect the monos work to address food justice in the community? 292 00:14:39.810 --> 00:14:42.370 [SPEAKER_1] Our signature program is Yes. 293 00:14:42.740 --> 00:14:44.060 [SPEAKER_1] The Summit Youth Employment Program. 294 00:14:44.870 --> 00:14:45.810 [SPEAKER_1] Which is six weeks. 295 00:14:46.320 --> 00:14:47.220 [SPEAKER_1] From July through August. 296 00:14:49.110 --> 00:14:51.610 [SPEAKER_1] So while we talk. 297 00:14:52.770 --> 00:14:54.710 [SPEAKER_1] Is that we one way that we do it. 298 00:14:55.480 --> 00:15:00.090 [SPEAKER_1] Is that we partner with Community Cohortings in the Bronx. 299 00:15:00.800 --> 00:15:03.720 [SPEAKER_1] They have been reclaiming a lot of spaces for community gardens. 300 00:15:04.770 --> 00:15:04.990 [SPEAKER_1] Good. 301 00:15:06.280 --> 00:15:09.880 [SPEAKER_1] So we have three community coordinates that we partnered with. 302 00:15:11.400 --> 00:15:16.470 [SPEAKER_1] And we dedicate days during the week that we go there. 303 00:15:17.590 --> 00:15:21.130 [SPEAKER_1] And the gardeners. 304 00:15:22.650 --> 00:15:23.190 [SPEAKER_1] They support. 305 00:15:24.210 --> 00:15:28.600 [SPEAKER_1] Teaching the young people our young interns the basics of coordinating. 306 00:15:29.910 --> 00:15:30.310 [SPEAKER_1] Um. 307 00:15:31.330 --> 00:15:32.470 [SPEAKER_1] Because the program is, 308 00:15:32.471 --> 00:15:36.361 [SPEAKER_1] is source is—you only last six weeks? 309 00:15:37.420 --> 00:15:37.600 [SPEAKER_1] Uh, 310 00:15:37.601 --> 00:15:43.161 [SPEAKER_1] because they need to start prepping before July, 311 00:15:43.162 --> 00:15:43.822 [SPEAKER_1] of course, 312 00:15:44.690 --> 00:15:45.210 [SPEAKER_1] and so, 313 00:15:45.211 --> 00:15:45.751 [SPEAKER_1] um, 314 00:15:47.220 --> 00:15:50.610 [SPEAKER_1] so that they can harvest something in August when they finish. 315 00:15:50.611 --> 00:15:57.301 [SPEAKER_1] It takes it takes a lot of coordination uh to do all the prepping in the spring. 316 00:15:57.302 --> 00:15:59.742 [SPEAKER_1] Now this is the time to start prepping for the summer. 317 00:16:00.699 --> 00:16:04.660 [SPEAKER_1] We get the support of Cornell University. 318 00:16:05.500 --> 00:16:08.680 [SPEAKER_1] We've been meeting with Cornell and the Gardiners. 319 00:16:09.670 --> 00:16:10.030 [SPEAKER_1] Um. 320 00:16:10.460 --> 00:16:12.720 [SPEAKER_1] to put a robust curriculum together. 321 00:16:13.720 --> 00:16:17.150 [SPEAKER_1] To make sure that when our young people go there this summer, 322 00:16:17.151 --> 00:16:18.481 [SPEAKER_1] it's done. 323 00:16:18.930 --> 00:16:20.090 [SPEAKER_1] That is very structured. 324 00:16:20.690 --> 00:16:21.890 [SPEAKER_1] The basic learning, 325 00:16:21.891 --> 00:16:25.401 [SPEAKER_1] the basic called the basic concepts of coordinating. 326 00:16:26.100 --> 00:16:28.860 [SPEAKER_1] So that they can apply and take those knowledge with. 327 00:16:29.820 --> 00:16:30.900 [SPEAKER_1] So that's what we do in it. 328 00:16:31.260 --> 00:16:31.620 [SPEAKER_1] Education, 329 00:16:31.880 --> 00:16:32.540 [SPEAKER_1] youth participation. 330 00:16:33.830 --> 00:16:39.310 [SPEAKER_1] Uh and partnership with community gardens in the Brons, 331 00:16:40.260 --> 00:16:40.600 [SPEAKER_1] thank you. 332 00:16:40.601 --> 00:16:40.761 [SPEAKER_3] Yeah, 333 00:16:40.762 --> 00:16:41.202 [SPEAKER_3] that's that. 334 00:16:41.203 --> 00:16:43.883 [SPEAKER_3] Sounds like such an amazing program and it sounds very effective. 335 00:16:47.300 --> 00:16:52.060 [SPEAKER_2] Speaking of these partnerships that Connected Monos facilitates, 336 00:16:52.220 --> 00:16:56.790 [SPEAKER_2] could you speak a little bit more about how you align the goals of 337 00:16:56.791 --> 00:17:00.411 [SPEAKER_2] Connecta Monos with all of the other organizations or departments 338 00:17:00.412 --> 00:17:03.652 [SPEAKER_2] that you work with to fully align your goals? 339 00:17:04.810 --> 00:17:05.190 [SPEAKER_1] For me, 340 00:17:05.191 --> 00:17:06.590 [SPEAKER_1] it's very easy to connect with people. 341 00:17:08.440 --> 00:17:08.660 [SPEAKER_1] Um. 342 00:17:09.520 --> 00:17:10.119 [SPEAKER_1] For example, 343 00:17:10.599 --> 00:17:15.900 [SPEAKER_1] I want to connect with people because the soccer cup is happening in June. 344 00:17:18.010 --> 00:17:18.270 [SPEAKER_1] Um. 345 00:17:19.430 --> 00:17:21.609 [SPEAKER_1] So one of our partners, 346 00:17:21.770 --> 00:17:24.730 [SPEAKER_1] the Community Department of Transportation, 347 00:17:26.530 --> 00:17:26.690 [SPEAKER_1] Ah. 348 00:17:28.119 --> 00:17:31.000 [SPEAKER_1] I learned about this grant that is coming up. 349 00:17:32.200 --> 00:17:32.460 [SPEAKER_1] And I said, 350 00:17:32.461 --> 00:17:32.801 [SPEAKER_1] wonderful. 351 00:17:33.810 --> 00:17:34.970 [SPEAKER_1] So I. 352 00:17:37.420 --> 00:17:38.440 [SPEAKER_1] So could Lee. 353 00:17:39.440 --> 00:17:39.940 [SPEAKER_1] Send an email. 354 00:17:40.960 --> 00:17:41.540 [SPEAKER_1] Very intentional. 355 00:17:42.750 --> 00:17:45.010 [SPEAKER_1] About the need for us to connect. 356 00:17:46.160 --> 00:17:47.680 [SPEAKER_1] And the fact that we have a track record, 357 00:17:48.080 --> 00:17:53.460 [SPEAKER_1] I think that us having a track record in the community and our 358 00:17:53.461 --> 00:17:55.881 [SPEAKER_1] volunteer efforts says a lot. 359 00:17:57.180 --> 00:18:00.840 [SPEAKER_1] So we've been reclaiming that part of High Bridge Park. 360 00:18:01.780 --> 00:18:04.140 [SPEAKER_1] And so her copy's coming up. 361 00:18:05.480 --> 00:18:08.850 [SPEAKER_1] I want to discuss with you the possibility of doing a partnership. 362 00:18:10.960 --> 00:18:12.440 [SPEAKER_1] And if you want to do this. 363 00:18:13.280 --> 00:18:14.140 [SPEAKER_1] Here's my number. 364 00:18:14.690 --> 00:18:16.450 [SPEAKER_1] Send me a text or do it the old fashioned way. 365 00:18:16.510 --> 00:18:16.990 [SPEAKER_1] Give me a call. 366 00:18:18.420 --> 00:18:19.100 [SPEAKER_1] I'm wasting minutes. 367 00:18:20.160 --> 00:18:24.920 [SPEAKER_1] I got a phone call from this organization that has been playing soccer there. 368 00:18:25.660 --> 00:18:27.340 [SPEAKER_1] And I said, 'Oh my God,' I've been wanting to, 369 00:18:27.400 --> 00:18:27.760 [SPEAKER_1] you know, 370 00:18:27.840 --> 00:18:28.700 [SPEAKER_1] I've always wanted to meet you. 371 00:18:29.020 --> 00:18:30.840 [SPEAKER_1] So we started a conversation there. 372 00:18:31.280 --> 00:18:34.680 [SPEAKER_1] And it's also that attention that you need to. 373 00:18:35.400 --> 00:18:38.070 [SPEAKER_1] to give to developing relationships. 374 00:18:40.040 --> 00:18:40.800 [SPEAKER_1] It takes time. 375 00:18:42.370 --> 00:18:45.310 [SPEAKER_1] And it is scary when creating partnerships. 376 00:18:47.060 --> 00:18:50.460 [SPEAKER_1] That you that Do you know something about that individual? 377 00:18:51.940 --> 00:18:52.460 [SPEAKER_1] And I say, 378 00:18:52.520 --> 00:18:52.860 [SPEAKER_1] hey, 379 00:18:53.140 --> 00:18:54.920 [SPEAKER_1] haven't heard from you. 380 00:18:55.240 --> 00:18:55.680 [SPEAKER_1] Hi, 381 00:18:55.880 --> 00:18:56.800 [SPEAKER_1] thinking about you. 382 00:18:56.920 --> 00:18:58.040 [SPEAKER_1] And I say that to people. 383 00:18:58.240 --> 00:18:59.380 [SPEAKER_1] If I'm thinking about me, 384 00:18:59.680 --> 00:19:00.220 [SPEAKER_1] I say, 385 00:19:00.260 --> 00:19:00.480 [SPEAKER_1] hey, 386 00:19:00.481 --> 00:19:01.361 [SPEAKER_1] thinking about you, 387 00:19:01.420 --> 00:19:02.400 [SPEAKER_1] sending you love. 388 00:19:04.320 --> 00:19:05.000 [SPEAKER_1] And like I said, 389 00:19:05.080 --> 00:19:06.540 [SPEAKER_1] that comes very natural for me. 390 00:19:06.640 --> 00:19:08.460 [SPEAKER_1] But if it doesn't come natural for you, 391 00:19:08.520 --> 00:19:10.060 [SPEAKER_1] then work on it. 392 00:19:11.730 --> 00:19:12.250 [SPEAKER_1] Work on it. 393 00:19:12.740 --> 00:19:13.940 [SPEAKER_1] So I connect with people, 394 00:19:14.020 --> 00:19:14.760 [SPEAKER_1] I send messages, 395 00:19:15.100 --> 00:19:16.120 [SPEAKER_1] I send emails. 396 00:19:17.350 --> 00:19:18.370 [SPEAKER_1] And when that doesn't work, 397 00:19:19.290 --> 00:19:19.710 [SPEAKER_1] I walk. 398 00:19:22.670 --> 00:19:25.190 [SPEAKER_1] So I sent an email this week and I know that it turned around, 399 00:19:25.610 --> 00:19:27.810 [SPEAKER_1] but I went for the walk. 400 00:19:28.560 --> 00:19:30.080 [SPEAKER_1] and that work was very intentional. 401 00:19:30.081 --> 00:19:36.761 [SPEAKER_1] I said, 'I want to walk to 164 to this particular school I'm going to say, 'Hey, 402 00:19:36.900 --> 00:19:39.080 [SPEAKER_1] I sent you an email.' Um. 403 00:19:40.370 --> 00:19:40.990 [SPEAKER_1] Who is the person? 404 00:19:41.130 --> 00:19:42.390 [SPEAKER_1] Because I don't know who the person is. 405 00:19:42.800 --> 00:19:43.480 [SPEAKER_1] I said, 'Oh, 406 00:19:43.500 --> 00:19:45.720 [SPEAKER_1] she's not here today,' but can I get the number? 407 00:19:47.710 --> 00:19:49.070 [SPEAKER_1] And you know, 408 00:19:49.071 --> 00:19:52.931 [SPEAKER_1] it takes time creating partnership and developing partnership. 409 00:19:52.932 --> 00:19:55.352 [SPEAKER_1] It takes time. 410 00:19:56.040 --> 00:19:59.180 [SPEAKER_1] You need to sustain those relationships. 411 00:20:00.060 --> 00:20:01.040 [SPEAKER_1] You need to. 412 00:20:02.560 --> 00:20:04.120 [SPEAKER_1] To give the personal connection. 413 00:20:05.160 --> 00:20:05.580 [SPEAKER_1] But truly, 414 00:20:05.581 --> 00:20:06.901 [SPEAKER_1] partnership is like, 415 00:20:07.000 --> 00:20:08.020 [SPEAKER_1] what do we have in common? 416 00:20:09.190 --> 00:20:09.990 [SPEAKER_1] What do we have in common? 417 00:20:10.070 --> 00:20:13.450 [SPEAKER_1] And that's the first thing that I talk to people that I want to partner with. 418 00:20:14.170 --> 00:20:16.810 [SPEAKER_1] Do you have an interest in social justice issues? 419 00:20:18.610 --> 00:20:19.570 [SPEAKER_1] and if that's so, 420 00:20:19.571 --> 00:20:25.604 [SPEAKER_1] it might look different from soccer than from a filmmaker that's fine. 421 00:20:25.605 --> 00:20:26.192 [SPEAKER_1] Of course, 422 00:20:26.193 --> 00:20:27.293 [SPEAKER_1] it's supposed to look different. 423 00:20:27.294 --> 00:20:30.840 [SPEAKER_1] But what do we have in common to make this a better community? 424 00:20:30.841 --> 00:20:32.145 [SPEAKER_1] For all of us, 425 00:20:32.146 --> 00:20:34.206 [SPEAKER_1] for all of us, 426 00:20:35.730 --> 00:20:36.910 [SPEAKER_1] I hope that that answered your question. 427 00:20:37.790 --> 00:20:42.220 [SPEAKER_1] The other thing in partnership is like: Don't take it personal. 428 00:20:43.920 --> 00:20:45.980 [SPEAKER_1] You are not that important to tell me the truth. 429 00:20:48.090 --> 00:20:50.410 [SPEAKER_1] And if that person is not responding to you, 430 00:20:51.380 --> 00:20:52.540 [SPEAKER_1] it has nothing to do with you. 431 00:20:53.230 --> 00:20:54.830 [SPEAKER_1] It has nothing to do with you. 432 00:20:56.420 --> 00:20:56.620 [SPEAKER_6] Yeah, 433 00:20:56.621 --> 00:20:57.141 [SPEAKER_6] definitely. 434 00:20:58.040 --> 00:20:58.380 [SPEAKER_6] Um, 435 00:20:59.730 --> 00:21:01.530 [SPEAKER_6] I think the persistence is very admirable. 436 00:21:01.770 --> 00:21:03.950 [SPEAKER_6] I will adopt that in my life. 437 00:21:04.230 --> 00:21:04.910 [SPEAKER_6] Thank you. 438 00:21:05.590 --> 00:21:07.390 [SPEAKER_4] I really appreciate those insights. 439 00:21:09.000 --> 00:21:11.440 [SPEAKER_4] I really also appreciate the attention. 440 00:21:12.220 --> 00:21:13.420 [SPEAKER_4] That you described throughout, 441 00:21:13.800 --> 00:21:14.300 [SPEAKER_4] especially. 442 00:21:15.370 --> 00:21:15.970 [SPEAKER_4] In terms of like. 443 00:21:16.340 --> 00:21:16.700 [SPEAKER_4] Thanks for listening. 444 00:21:17.260 --> 00:21:17.600 [SPEAKER_4] community. 445 00:21:18.310 --> 00:21:18.890 [SPEAKER_4] With mint tissue. 446 00:21:19.900 --> 00:21:21.260 [SPEAKER_4] For the youth by the older generation. 447 00:21:22.430 --> 00:21:22.710 [SPEAKER_4] And. 448 00:21:23.140 --> 00:21:28.560 [SPEAKER_4] I would Love to hear more about what your um hope is for the next 449 00:21:28.561 --> 00:21:30.381 [SPEAKER_4] generation of community organizers. 450 00:21:31.250 --> 00:21:31.450 [SPEAKER_1] Well, 451 00:21:31.451 --> 00:21:33.171 [SPEAKER_1] I would love for people like you. 452 00:21:34.100 --> 00:21:36.360 [SPEAKER_1] to come and get involved in community programming. 453 00:21:37.010 --> 00:21:38.150 [SPEAKER_1] It doesn't have to be connected. 454 00:21:38.151 --> 00:21:44.091 [SPEAKER_1] There are many organizations in this neighborhood that present for 455 00:21:44.092 --> 00:21:45.692 [SPEAKER_1] you to come out and see. 456 00:21:45.693 --> 00:21:51.393 [SPEAKER_1] You know how those wonderful concepts that you are learning in 457 00:21:51.394 --> 00:21:54.754 [SPEAKER_1] public health apply to the day-to-day reality. 458 00:21:56.060 --> 00:21:56.360 [SPEAKER_1] Um, 459 00:21:58.540 --> 00:21:58.820 [SPEAKER_1] you know, 460 00:21:58.880 --> 00:22:00.700 [SPEAKER_1] these are very challenging times. 461 00:22:01.710 --> 00:22:02.830 [SPEAKER_1] These are very challenging. 462 00:22:03.600 --> 00:22:03.820 [SPEAKER_1] Time. 463 00:22:05.680 --> 00:22:05.900 [SPEAKER_1] Oh. 464 00:22:07.720 --> 00:22:12.460 [SPEAKER_1] So I am putting a lot of emphasis on growing human beings. 465 00:22:14.620 --> 00:22:14.920 [SPEAKER_1] You know, 466 00:22:14.921 --> 00:22:18.401 [SPEAKER_1] in those young people to care for each other. 467 00:22:19.990 --> 00:22:20.250 [SPEAKER_1] Oh. 468 00:22:24.240 --> 00:22:25.360 [SPEAKER_1] Because it's very hard, 469 00:22:25.361 --> 00:22:28.791 [SPEAKER_1] it's very hard to be a young person. 470 00:22:29.440 --> 00:22:33.310 [SPEAKER_1] Particularly in this wonderful city that we have. 471 00:22:34.250 --> 00:22:37.050 [SPEAKER_1] And I never say that this community organizing is not easy. 472 00:22:37.590 --> 00:22:37.850 [SPEAKER_1] At all. 473 00:22:40.050 --> 00:22:40.970 [SPEAKER_1] But, 474 00:22:42.600 --> 00:22:43.940 [SPEAKER_1] it has values, 475 00:22:43.941 --> 00:22:45.501 [SPEAKER_1] it has values. 476 00:22:46.310 --> 00:22:47.990 [SPEAKER_1] When X number of years later, 477 00:22:48.910 --> 00:22:50.490 [SPEAKER_1] I have moms that come to me. 478 00:22:52.120 --> 00:22:55.960 [SPEAKER_1] And I said, 'I know you from,' and of course I don't remember because, 479 00:22:56.020 --> 00:22:56.260 [SPEAKER_1] you know. 480 00:22:57.350 --> 00:22:59.710 [SPEAKER_1] I said, 'you evaluated my child' 481 00:23:01.260 --> 00:23:04.500 [SPEAKER_1] in such and such a school when you are a school psychologist. 482 00:23:06.780 --> 00:23:07.720 [SPEAKER_1] And you met with me. 483 00:23:08.950 --> 00:23:11.030 [SPEAKER_1] And you say this and this. 484 00:23:11.031 --> 00:23:16.191 [SPEAKER_1] I want for you to tell me that I was able to get my son out of special education, 485 00:23:16.470 --> 00:23:18.090 [SPEAKER_1] and my son is now a college grad. 486 00:23:19.780 --> 00:23:20.320 [SPEAKER_1] And I said, 'Oh, 487 00:23:20.340 --> 00:23:25.080 [SPEAKER_1] my God.' And so when people come to you. 488 00:23:26.510 --> 00:23:29.110 [SPEAKER_1] I have a young man that I took in when he was, 489 00:23:30.070 --> 00:23:31.490 [SPEAKER_1] when he was 14-15. 490 00:23:33.010 --> 00:23:35.210 [SPEAKER_1] And he was one of my DYC, 491 00:23:35.270 --> 00:23:36.690 [SPEAKER_1] my interns. 492 00:23:38.690 --> 00:23:40.590 [SPEAKER_1] And he must be now in his thirties. 493 00:23:41.580 --> 00:23:44.810 [SPEAKER_1] This must be— and I stay in touch with him. 494 00:23:46.240 --> 00:23:46.320 [SPEAKER_1] Say, 495 00:23:46.380 --> 00:23:46.660 [SPEAKER_1] hi, 496 00:23:46.860 --> 00:23:47.420 [SPEAKER_1] how are you? 497 00:23:47.480 --> 00:23:47.640 [SPEAKER_1] Say, 498 00:23:47.700 --> 00:23:47.780 [SPEAKER_1] oh, 499 00:23:47.800 --> 00:23:48.120 [SPEAKER_1] Yolanda. 500 00:23:51.320 --> 00:23:51.800 [SPEAKER_1] For me, 501 00:23:51.840 --> 00:23:52.140 [SPEAKER_1] that's important. 502 00:23:52.940 --> 00:23:53.200 [SPEAKER_1] For me, 503 00:23:53.240 --> 00:23:53.580 [SPEAKER_1] that's important. 504 00:23:54.200 --> 00:23:56.560 [SPEAKER_1] That connection with humans. 505 00:23:58.130 --> 00:23:59.670 [SPEAKER_1] So they can't afford each other, 506 00:23:59.750 --> 00:24:00.250 [SPEAKER_1] the human. 507 00:24:00.920 --> 00:24:02.200 [SPEAKER_1] Part of who we are. 508 00:24:03.420 --> 00:24:03.940 [SPEAKER_1] Not. 509 00:24:04.440 --> 00:24:06.860 [SPEAKER_1] To give it up and to invest time. 510 00:24:07.720 --> 00:24:08.260 [SPEAKER_1] In creating. 511 00:24:09.440 --> 00:24:11.300 [SPEAKER_1] Communities in creating relationships. 512 00:24:12.380 --> 00:24:13.500 [SPEAKER_1] And it came from each other. 513 00:24:14.700 --> 00:24:15.060 [SPEAKER_4] Thank you. 514 00:24:15.080 --> 00:24:16.800 [SPEAKER_4] So that's such a beautiful perspective. 515 00:24:17.670 --> 00:24:20.120 [SPEAKER_4] And I really appreciate you. 516 00:24:20.700 --> 00:24:22.040 [SPEAKER_4] Share all of your insights with us. 517 00:24:22.840 --> 00:24:25.140 [SPEAKER_4] I can speak on behalf of all of us. 518 00:24:26.230 --> 00:24:29.430 [SPEAKER_4] And just say that we really appreciated getting the chance to learn more about. 519 00:24:30.160 --> 00:24:35.230 [SPEAKER_4] Your work will connect the monos and your insights about leadership 520 00:24:35.231 --> 00:24:36.511 [SPEAKER_4] and service in the Hudson. 521 00:24:37.280 --> 00:24:41.580 [SPEAKER_4] Just your perspective on um spending so much time being part of this 522 00:24:41.581 --> 00:24:44.001 [SPEAKER_4] community and then being able to fall back into it. 523 00:24:44.020 --> 00:24:47.810 [SPEAKER_4] It's been very inspiring and definitely encouraging for us. 524 00:24:48.760 --> 00:24:51.380 [SPEAKER_4] Public health practitioners and future public health leaders.