Robert Ealey, Driver, Willow Avenue Family Residence

A picture of a smiling man in a BronxWorks hat and jacket standing outside on the sidewalk next to a building.

Robert Ealey has spent over 30 years at BronxWorks committed to maintaining important facilities where the organization provides critical programs uplifting the Bronx.

Robert originally joined the organization at our flagship community center at 1130 Grand Concourse as a maintenance worker. He then moved over to the BronxWorks Living Room drop-in center, where he worked in maintenance for several years. After almost a decade of working at two of the organization’s key sites, Robert transferred to the Willow Avenue Family Residence to be the facility’s Super. He has remained at Willow Ave for the past 21 years.

As the Super, Robert worked alongside a maintenance crew to ensure the building was properly maintained and cleaned. The residence houses over 100 families, who work with BronxWorks program staff to progress towards housing stability. Almost every day, Robert would make sure units were ready for new families to move in, as other families transitioned to permanent housing.

This job has definitely been a learning experience for me. You don’t realize what people are going through or what led them to be there. I learned that you cannot be judgmental, you do not know their story.”

After 19 years of being the Super at Willow Ave, Robert reached retirement. However, after a short time, he missed working and returned to Willow Ave. Robert now works as a Driver for the residence and has the opportunity to bring staff and clients to view potential apartments as they strive to achieve stable housing.

During his 30 years with the organization, Robert has developed strong bonds with his coworkers. He is so grateful for the trust instilled in him by his supervisors over the years, many of whom are still his colleagues.

“BronxWorks has always taken care of me and my family. My wife Rene worked for BronxWorks at the community center for 18 years as well… I’ve met a lot of great people, and they keep me coming back.”

Prior to joining BronxWorks, Robert served in the military and traveled to many countries. When he returned from service, he quickly missed New York, where he was raised, and moved back home. Although he now drives for a living, Robert enjoys driving along the east coast to visit friends and family. He also likes to travel to other countries and hopes to take a cruise with his sisters soon.

To learn more about Robert’s beloved wife, Rene, click here.

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