Crystal Anceume has dedicated her entire career to the food service industry. Crystal was raised in the Bronx, and she knew from a young age that she had cooking skills and wanted to pursue a culinary career. Crystal has held food service jobs since she was 16 years old, and she quickly learned that there is far more to the industry than just cooking. She attended Hostos Community College and earned her Associate’s Degree in Office Technology to diversify her skillset before furthering her career.

Throughout her many years of experience in the industry, Crystal has welcomed every situation as a learning opportunity for herself and her colleagues. Prior to joining BronxWorks, Crystal worked in various aspects of food service, including restaurants, catering, and events. She also gained experience in the social services sector when she worked at the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). After looking for an opportunity to showcase more of her skills and support an organization uplifting her community, Crystal joined BronxWorks in 2023 as the Food Service Coordinator for Older Adult Centers.

“I am most passionate about the work I’m doing now with the seniors. I love interacting with them and I’m so glad we can make them happy through our food.”  

In this role, Crystal oversees all meals produced for nine BronxWorks older adult centers. She manages food preparation, delivery, inventory, ordering, site visits, and more to ensure that hundreds of older adults are receiving healthy and delicious meals in a timely manner every day. Crystal also works in conjunction with the NYC Department For The Aging, an on-staff Dietician, and the older adults at each site to create the menus.

“I’m proud when people see the seniors’ meals and they see the kitchen, because they see me. I take a lot of pride in it because it’s a reflection of me.”  

Outside of work, Crystal is a referee for high school girls’ basketball through PSAL. Crystal enjoys remaining connected to the sport, since she played basketball in college and her niece currently plays as well.

Crystal Anceume has dedicated her entire career to the food service industry. Crystal was raised in the Bronx, and she knew from a young age that she had cooking skills and wanted to pursue a culinary career. Crystal has held food service jobs since she was 16 years old, and she quickly learned that there is far more to the industry than just cooking. She attended Hostos Community College and earned her Associate’s Degree in Office Technology to diversify her skillset before furthering her career.

Throughout her many years of experience in the industry, Crystal has welcomed every situation as a learning opportunity for herself and her colleagues. Prior to joining BronxWorks, Crystal worked in various aspects of food service, including restaurants, catering, and events. She also gained experience in the social services sector when she worked at the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). After looking for an opportunity to showcase more of her skills and support an organization uplifting her community, Crystal joined BronxWorks in 2023 as the Food Service Coordinator for Older Adult Centers.

“I am most passionate about the work I’m doing now with the seniors. I love interacting with them and I’m so glad we can make them happy through our food.”  

In this role, Crystal oversees all meals produced for nine BronxWorks older adult centers. She manages food preparation, delivery, inventory, ordering, site visits, and more to ensure that hundreds of older adults are receiving healthy and delicious meals in a timely manner every day. Crystal also works in conjunction with the NYC Department For The Aging, an on-staff Dietician, and the older adults at each site to create the menus.

“I’m proud when people see the seniors’ meals and they see the kitchen, because they see me. I take a lot of pride in it because it’s a reflection of me.”  

Outside of work, Crystal is a referee for high school girls’ basketball through PSAL. Crystal enjoys remaining connected to the sport, since she played basketball in college and her niece currently plays as well.

Daisy Pinero has been a formidable leader in BronxWorks food service for over two decades. Daisy is the Food Service Coordinator at the Carolyn McLaughlin Community Center (CMCC), the organization’s flagship location on the Grand Concourse. Daisy is a New York native who was born in Spanish Harlem and raised in the Bronx. She used to walk by the CMCC building every day on her way to elementary and middle school. Now, Daisy is in charge of producing almost 1,000 meals every day in that building.

“I would’ve never thought when I was younger that I would still be walking down this same block every day.”  

Before pursuing a culinary career, Daisy held a variety of jobs, including security at Bronx public schools, roofing and construction, and assisting a local political campaign. Daisy was first connected to BronxWorks in the mid 1990s through Project Renewal, where she was participating in a culinary training program. She was hired as a cook at the BronxWorks Living Room drop-in center within the first year of that location’s opening. Daisy worked at the Living Room kitchen for several years until 2004, when she transferred to work in the CMCC kitchen. She has remained there ever since, and in those two decades her responsibilities have grown with the expansion of the organization. Daisy and her team provide meals for multiple programs in the building and cater any events at CMCC, and they also distribute to over a dozen other BronxWoks sites.

“I enjoy what I do, helping the community I grew up in. People say it’s a lot of work, but I’m used to it. I take pride in my work.”  

Daisy has a small but mighty team at CMCC, overseeing the organization’s largest kitchen. Through her strong leadership and work ethic, Daisy has made lasting connections with her colleagues that enable them to continue producing food high in quality and quantity.

Outside of work, Daisy loves to travel and visit her family in Florida. Recently she has traveled to Greece and the Dominican Republic, and she has a trip planned to Saint Lucia.

 

Daisy Pinero has been a formidable leader in BronxWorks food service for over two decades. Daisy is the Food Service Coordinator at the Carolyn McLaughlin Community Center (CMCC), the organization’s flagship location on the Grand Concourse. Daisy is a New York native who was born in Spanish Harlem and raised in the Bronx. She used to walk by the CMCC building every day on her way to elementary and middle school. Now, Daisy is in charge of producing almost 1,000 meals every day in that building.

“I would’ve never thought when I was younger that I would still be walking down this same block every day.”  

Before pursuing a culinary career, Daisy held a variety of jobs, including security at Bronx public schools, roofing and construction, and assisting a local political campaign. Daisy was first connected to BronxWorks in the mid 1990s through Project Renewal, where she was participating in a culinary training program. She was hired as a cook at the BronxWorks Living Room drop-in center within the first year of that location’s opening. Daisy worked at the Living Room kitchen for several years until 2004, when she transferred to work in the CMCC kitchen. She has remained there ever since, and in those two decades her responsibilities have grown with the expansion of the organization. Daisy and her team provide meals for multiple programs in the building and cater any events at CMCC, and they also distribute to over a dozen other BronxWoks sites.

“I enjoy what I do, helping the community I grew up in. People say it’s a lot of work, but I’m used to it. I take pride in my work.”  

Daisy has a small but mighty team at CMCC, overseeing the organization’s largest kitchen. Through her strong leadership and work ethic, Daisy has made lasting connections with her colleagues that enable them to continue producing food high in quality and quantity.

Outside of work, Daisy loves to travel and visit her family in Florida. Recently she has traveled to Greece and the Dominican Republic, and she has a trip planned to Saint Lucia.

 

Beverly McLeod

Program Director, BronxWorks ECLC I at 1130 Grand Concourse

Beverly McLeod has been a teacher for her entire career and was heavily influenced by amazing teachers she had at an early age. After attending St. Joseph’s Teaching College and earning a degree in Elementary Education, Beverly was a teacher of young children for many years. She then attended Lehman College, earning a Bachelor’s in Sociology and a Master’s in Education. Beverly joined BronxWorks as a Lead Teacher for an ECLC class, and she was promoted to the Program Director of ECLC I at 1130 Grand Concourse within her first year. She has now held that position for the last decade, overseeing all staff and curriculum at the center. Beverly is proud to work with such caring and skilled colleagues, many of whom have been with the organization longer than she has. Beverly’s favorite thing about working with young students is leaving a positive experience of learning that will continue with them into elementary school. Her favorite activity with the students is raising trout during the year and then releasing them in a river upstate.

“I am big on providing them the best educational experience for their first time. So they will take with them the love of learning.”

Outside of work, Beverly loves to decorate and do Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects.

 

Titilola Omokpo

Program Director, BronxWorks ECLC II at 1472 Montgomery Avenue

Titilola Omokpo learned that she loved to teach by working alongside her parents, both of whom were educators. Now almost three decades later, she is still working in education and has focused on early childhood learning. Titilola earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education while living in Nigeria and earned her Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Mercy College. Titilola started at BronxWorks as an ECLC Lead Teacher, with most of her prior experience being in classrooms with preschoolers. Shortly after she started, the Program Director position at ECLC II opened up and she was encouraged by her supervisors to take the position. Titilola has now been the Program Director of BronxWorks ECLC II for 11 years. She is very passionate about her work because early childhood education is foundational to the success and well-being of young learners. Titilola advocates for her staff to ensure they have the resources and training they need to continue growing professionally and to support the deep commitment and care they show the students. She is currently pursing the Children’s Program Administration Credential (CPAC) at CUNY School of Professional Studies.

 “This is the work I love, working with children. Seeing their smile, the enthusiasm in their face, that makes my day.”

Outside of work, Titilola loves fashion, cooking, and listening to music.

 

Meghan Romano

Program Director, BronxWorks ECLC III at Bronx Point

Meghan Romano joined BronxWorks in Fall 2024 as the Program Director of the new BronxWorks ECLC at Bronx Point. For the last year, she has led the implementation of the new program, opening in the new year, and she has begun to foster relationships with families in the community. A native New Yorker, Meghan was raised in Brooklyn and has focused her education career in the South Bronx. She earned her Bachelor’s in Education and Science from Mount Saint Vincent University in the Bronx, and then Meghan went on to earn her Master’s of Science in Childhood Education from CUNY Brooklyn College. Prior to joining BronxWorks, Meghan worked for over 12 years as an education director for younger students in public schools, private schools, and Head Start programs. Meghan is now a resident of the Bronx, and she is excited to continue her career with an organization uniquely positioned to uplift the Bronx.

“At BronxWorks, we work as closely with the families as we can to connect them with other services they may need… I have one parent already who I referred to our English classes. She has been attending since September.”

Outside of work, Meghan loves being active outdoors, as well as enjoying homemade food by cooking and baking.

Beverly McLeod

Program Director, BronxWorks ECLC I at 1130 Grand Concourse

Beverly McLeod has been a teacher for her entire career and was heavily influenced by amazing teachers she had at an early age. After attending St. Joseph’s Teaching College and earning a degree in Elementary Education, Beverly was a teacher of young children for many years. She then attended Lehman College, earning a Bachelor’s in Sociology and a Master’s in Education. Beverly joined BronxWorks as a Lead Teacher for an ECLC class, and she was promoted to the Program Director of ECLC I at 1130 Grand Concourse within her first year. She has now held that position for the last decade, overseeing all staff and curriculum at the center. Beverly is proud to work with such caring and skilled colleagues, many of whom have been with the organization longer than she has. Beverly’s favorite thing about working with young students is leaving a positive experience of learning that will continue with them into elementary school. Her favorite activity with the students is raising trout during the year and then releasing them in a river upstate.

“I am big on providing them the best educational experience for their first time. So they will take with them the love of learning.”

Outside of work, Beverly loves to decorate and do Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects.

 

Titilola Omokpo

Program Director, BronxWorks ECLC II at 1472 Montgomery Avenue

Titilola Omokpo learned that she loved to teach by working alongside her parents, both of whom were educators. Now almost three decades later, she is still working in education and has focused on early childhood learning. Titilola earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education while living in Nigeria and earned her Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Mercy College. Titilola started at BronxWorks as an ECLC Lead Teacher, with most of her prior experience being in classrooms with preschoolers. Shortly after she started, the Program Director position at ECLC II opened up and she was encouraged by her supervisors to take the position. Titilola has now been the Program Director of BronxWorks ECLC II for 11 years. She is very passionate about her work because early childhood education is foundational to the success and well-being of young learners. Titilola advocates for her staff to ensure they have the resources and training they need to continue growing professionally and to support the deep commitment and care they show the students. She is currently pursing the Children’s Program Administration Credential (CPAC) at CUNY School of Professional Studies.

 “This is the work I love, working with children. Seeing their smile, the enthusiasm in their face, that makes my day.”

Outside of work, Titilola loves fashion, cooking, and listening to music.

 

Meghan Romano

Program Director, BronxWorks ECLC III at Bronx Point

Meghan Romano joined BronxWorks in Fall 2024 as the Program Director of the new BronxWorks ECLC at Bronx Point. For the last year, she has led the implementation of the new program, opening in the new year, and she has begun to foster relationships with families in the community. A native New Yorker, Meghan was raised in Brooklyn and has focused her education career in the South Bronx. She earned her Bachelor’s in Education and Science from Mount Saint Vincent University in the Bronx, and then Meghan went on to earn her Master’s of Science in Childhood Education from CUNY Brooklyn College. Prior to joining BronxWorks, Meghan worked for over 12 years as an education director for younger students in public schools, private schools, and Head Start programs. Meghan is now a resident of the Bronx, and she is excited to continue her career with an organization uniquely positioned to uplift the Bronx.

“At BronxWorks, we work as closely with the families as we can to connect them with other services they may need… I have one parent already who I referred to our English classes. She has been attending since September.”

Outside of work, Meghan loves being active outdoors, as well as enjoying homemade food by cooking and baking.

Alaysia Fulton-Hodo, a Bronx native, joined BronxWorks in search of a new and more impactful career. Prior to joining the organization, she graduated from SUNY Stony Brook University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and began a career in wealth management.  Alaysia was the first of her family to attend college and worked hard to ensure she can support them. Despite her successes, Alaysia was not fulfilled in her financial career because she felt her work was not impactful for her community.

While working in wealth management, Alaysia regularly volunteered with local nonprofits, often in programs providing food access and other essentials to those in need. The enjoyment she gained from this work led her to consider a switch to the social service industry. With a desire to do more fulfilling work in her local community, Alaysia discovered BronxWorks and attended a recruitment event. She was then immediately hired as an Administrative Assistant for the Homelessness Prevention and Access to Benefits department at BronxWorks. One of the first projects Alaysia worked on was the BronxWorks Bring Back The Jump initiative, a series of double-dutch competitions for Bronx residents. Witnessing camaraderie among participants and staff during such a nostalgic and culturally significant activity brought her so much joy in her new role. These and other programmatic events further immersed Alaysia within her community and reaffirmed the impact of the organization’s work.

Alaysia’s strong work ethic and her skills in data organization and management earned her multiple promotions within the department, and she is now a Program Director for NDA4 and NDA9. The BronxWorks NDA programs are funded by the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). In this role, Alaysia oversees comprehensive case management and benefits access for community members in her two districts. Alongside other staff, she also facilitates one of the organization’s bi-weekly food pantries, serving up to 60 families with fresh and culturally appropriate produce and goods. Alaysia has witnessed the immense impact of this food pantry within the communities she serves and shares that the demand consistently exceeds the supply.

“One of the biggest things clients say to us all the time is that we need a more expansive pantry… Especially with how things are changing with SNAP eligibility requirements, I’ve noticed that recently people seem to rely on our pantry more.”

Alaysia says her favorite thing about working for BronxWorks has not changed since she first started – seeing community members happy and thriving with the organization’s support. She views her work as empowering clients with the tools and resources to face challenges they thought they could not face alone.

“The work I’m doing here, it makes me so happy that I’m showing clients how to put themselves in the best position to then advocate for themselves in the long term.”

Outside of work, Alaysia enjoys taking time to relax with activities such as working out and playing videogames.

Alaysia Fulton-Hodo, a Bronx native, joined BronxWorks in search of a new and more impactful career. Prior to joining the organization, she graduated from SUNY Stony Brook University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and began a career in wealth management.  Alaysia was the first of her family to attend college and worked hard to ensure she can support them. Despite her successes, Alaysia was not fulfilled in her financial career because she felt her work was not impactful for her community.

While working in wealth management, Alaysia regularly volunteered with local nonprofits, often in programs providing food access and other essentials to those in need. The enjoyment she gained from this work led her to consider a switch to the social service industry. With a desire to do more fulfilling work in her local community, Alaysia discovered BronxWorks and attended a recruitment event. She was then immediately hired as an Administrative Assistant for the Homelessness Prevention and Access to Benefits department at BronxWorks. One of the first projects Alaysia worked on was the BronxWorks Bring Back The Jump initiative, a series of double-dutch competitions for Bronx residents. Witnessing camaraderie among participants and staff during such a nostalgic and culturally significant activity brought her so much joy in her new role. These and other programmatic events further immersed Alaysia within her community and reaffirmed the impact of the organization’s work.

Alaysia’s strong work ethic and her skills in data organization and management earned her multiple promotions within the department, and she is now a Program Director for NDA4 and NDA9. The BronxWorks NDA programs are funded by the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). In this role, Alaysia oversees comprehensive case management and benefits access for community members in her two districts. Alongside other staff, she also facilitates one of the organization’s bi-weekly food pantries, serving up to 60 families with fresh and culturally appropriate produce and goods. Alaysia has witnessed the immense impact of this food pantry within the communities she serves and shares that the demand consistently exceeds the supply.

“One of the biggest things clients say to us all the time is that we need a more expansive pantry… Especially with how things are changing with SNAP eligibility requirements, I’ve noticed that recently people seem to rely on our pantry more.”

Alaysia says her favorite thing about working for BronxWorks has not changed since she first started – seeing community members happy and thriving with the organization’s support. She views her work as empowering clients with the tools and resources to face challenges they thought they could not face alone.

“The work I’m doing here, it makes me so happy that I’m showing clients how to put themselves in the best position to then advocate for themselves in the long term.”

Outside of work, Alaysia enjoys taking time to relax with activities such as working out and playing videogames.

Stanley Vargas, MSW, has spent his entire social work career with BronxWorks, growing within the organization’s Adult Homeless Services department. Stanley is the Director of Social Services at the BronxWorks Westchester Avenue Safe Haven (WASH), where he supervises case management staff and liaisons with medical psychiatric providers to support all clientele at the safe haven.

Stanley was born and raised in Harlem to a single mother. He moved to the Bronx when he was a teen and continued to live in the borough for many years. He grew up in a Dominican family with several strong female figures leading the households, all who strongly prioritized education. Stanley earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts with a specialty in substance use from the City College of New York. He held various positions before joining BronxWorks in 2017 as an outreach worker for the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT).

Stanley quickly progressed to be a Case Manager and then Senior Case Manager for HOT, when he then gained the desire and encouragement to go back to school for his Masters degree in Social Work. Stanley attended Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work and was able to complete his One Year Residency requirement within the Adult Homeless Services department at BronxWorks. After earning his MSW, Stanley was promoted to Director of Social Services at the Westchester Avenue Safe Haven, where he has worked for almost two years now. Having started his career with BronxWorks in street outreach, Stanley is able to leverage his experience and better understand clients’ circumstances at the safe haven. He is very proud to be part of the impactful work accomplished by the organization for some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

“Working here doesn’t feel like a job. I see the impact of BronxWorks, and I love having that one-on-one connection with the community I was raised in.”  

Outside of work, Stanley is an avid New York sports fan. He is also now a father to two young daughters and loves to spend time with his family.

 

Stanley Vargas, MSW, has spent his entire social work career with BronxWorks, growing within the organization’s Adult Homeless Services department. Stanley is the Director of Social Services at the BronxWorks Westchester Avenue Safe Haven (WASH), where he supervises case management staff and liaisons with medical psychiatric providers to support all clientele at the safe haven.

Stanley was born and raised in Harlem to a single mother. He moved to the Bronx when he was a teen and continued to live in the borough for many years. He grew up in a Dominican family with several strong female figures leading the households, all who strongly prioritized education. Stanley earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts with a specialty in substance use from the City College of New York. He held various positions before joining BronxWorks in 2017 as an outreach worker for the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT).

Stanley quickly progressed to be a Case Manager and then Senior Case Manager for HOT, when he then gained the desire and encouragement to go back to school for his Masters degree in Social Work. Stanley attended Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work and was able to complete his One Year Residency requirement within the Adult Homeless Services department at BronxWorks. After earning his MSW, Stanley was promoted to Director of Social Services at the Westchester Avenue Safe Haven, where he has worked for almost two years now. Having started his career with BronxWorks in street outreach, Stanley is able to leverage his experience and better understand clients’ circumstances at the safe haven. He is very proud to be part of the impactful work accomplished by the organization for some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

“Working here doesn’t feel like a job. I see the impact of BronxWorks, and I love having that one-on-one connection with the community I was raised in.”  

Outside of work, Stanley is an avid New York sports fan. He is also now a father to two young daughters and loves to spend time with his family.

 

Barbara Miliano, LCSW, has led The Brook supportive housing site as Program Director for the last ten years. From an early age, Barbara was passionate about providing access to resources and care in a way that is more authentic and culturally relevant to the community being served. Barbara was born in the Dominican Republic but spent most of her childhood in New York City, living in Washington Heights and then the Bronx.

Barbara earned both her undergraduate degree and graduate degree in Social Work from New York University and immediately began her career in social service. Before joining BronxWorks, Barbara’s work experience involved serving a variety of populations, including young adolescents, adults facing incarceration, those recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, senior and geriatric care, those with issues of substance abuse, and more.

Barbara heard of an open position at a BronxWorks supportive housing site and was interested in working with clients who had been formerly homeless. She joined the staff at The Brook in 2010 and worked there for over three years before she left the organization for another managerial position. However, Barbara quickly returned to BronxWorks, having missed being ‘boots on the ground’ with her clientele. In 2015, Barbara rejoined the organization as Program Director of The Brook, where she has remained for ten years. Her experiences with diverse populations have culminated to inform her work at The Brook, where residents often have faced a multitude of challenges along with their experiences of homelessness.

Barbara is proud to work in supportive housing because she is able to assist residents with obtaining proactive and long-term care to best support their needs. Having been at The Brook for over a decade, Barbara has witnessed incredible growth, as well as a stronger sense of dignity and community in every resident.

“Some social services can be very transactional, you only interact with clients a couple times. At The Brook, it’s all about the relationship with the client.”

Outside of work, Barbara is enjoying caring for a new puppy and spending time with her daughter, who just started her first semester of college.

 

Barbara Miliano, LCSW, has led The Brook supportive housing site as Program Director for the last ten years. From an early age, Barbara was passionate about providing access to resources and care in a way that is more authentic and culturally relevant to the community being served. Barbara was born in the Dominican Republic but spent most of her childhood in New York City, living in Washington Heights and then the Bronx.

Barbara earned both her undergraduate degree and graduate degree in Social Work from New York University and immediately began her career in social service. Before joining BronxWorks, Barbara’s work experience involved serving a variety of populations, including young adolescents, adults facing incarceration, those recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, senior and geriatric care, those with issues of substance abuse, and more.

Barbara heard of an open position at a BronxWorks supportive housing site and was interested in working with clients who had been formerly homeless. She joined the staff at The Brook in 2010 and worked there for over three years before she left the organization for another managerial position. However, Barbara quickly returned to BronxWorks, having missed being ‘boots on the ground’ with her clientele. In 2015, Barbara rejoined the organization as Program Director of The Brook, where she has remained for ten years. Her experiences with diverse populations have culminated to inform her work at The Brook, where residents often have faced a multitude of challenges along with their experiences of homelessness.

Barbara is proud to work in supportive housing because she is able to assist residents with obtaining proactive and long-term care to best support their needs. Having been at The Brook for over a decade, Barbara has witnessed incredible growth, as well as a stronger sense of dignity and community in every resident.

“Some social services can be very transactional, you only interact with clients a couple times. At The Brook, it’s all about the relationship with the client.”

Outside of work, Barbara is enjoying caring for a new puppy and spending time with her daughter, who just started her first semester of college.

 

Noel Concepcion, LMSW, is celebrating 30 years with BronxWorks. Noel joined the organization in 1995 as a Case Manager for the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT). He is now the Vice President of Adult Homeless Services, overseeing a men’s shelter, multiple safe havens, a drop-in center, and street outreach.

A Bronx native of Puerto Rican descent, Noel spent his entire childhood living in the borough. Noel moved to the Midwest for college and found that he was most engaged with his studies surrounding social work. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Sociology from Southwestern College, then immediately moved back to New York City to pursue a career in social services. Despite his mother moving away to Virginia, Noel wanted to return to the city where he felt he could best support his own community.  He joined BronxWorks HOT in 1995, the same year HOT was established as the first street outreach program in the Bronx.

After a few years into his career, Noel attended Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work and earned his MSW. He completed his One Year Residency requirement at the BronxWorks Living Room safe haven and drop-in center, which was recently opened at the time and the first of its kind in the borough. Shortly after completing his MSW, Noel was promoted to Program Director of HOT and then promoted once again to oversee the Living Room as well. The organization’s homeless services continued to expand throughout the years, with Noel maintaining oversight of these services. In 2015, Noel was promoted to Department Director of Adult Homeless Services, coinciding with the opening of the second BronxWorks safe haven. In 2024, Noel was named Vice President of Adult Homeless Services at BronxWorks.

Noel takes extreme pride in contributing to the reduction of street homelessness in the borough, which BronxWorks has presided over for the last three decades. “I’m very proud of the reduction in street homelessness in the Bronx. The work is not done, and we are committed to continuing this work to uplift the community.”

 

Noel Concepcion, LMSW, is celebrating 30 years with BronxWorks. Noel joined the organization in 1995 as a Case Manager for the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT). He is now the Vice President of Adult Homeless Services, overseeing a men’s shelter, multiple safe havens, a drop-in center, and street outreach.

A Bronx native of Puerto Rican descent, Noel spent his entire childhood living in the borough. Noel moved to the Midwest for college and found that he was most engaged with his studies surrounding social work. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Sociology from Southwestern College, then immediately moved back to New York City to pursue a career in social services. Despite his mother moving away to Virginia, Noel wanted to return to the city where he felt he could best support his own community.  He joined BronxWorks HOT in 1995, the same year HOT was established as the first street outreach program in the Bronx.

After a few years into his career, Noel attended Hunter College’s Silberman School of Social Work and earned his MSW. He completed his One Year Residency requirement at the BronxWorks Living Room safe haven and drop-in center, which was recently opened at the time and the first of its kind in the borough. Shortly after completing his MSW, Noel was promoted to Program Director of HOT and then promoted once again to oversee the Living Room as well. The organization’s homeless services continued to expand throughout the years, with Noel maintaining oversight of these services. In 2015, Noel was promoted to Department Director of Adult Homeless Services, coinciding with the opening of the second BronxWorks safe haven. In 2024, Noel was named Vice President of Adult Homeless Services at BronxWorks.

Noel takes extreme pride in contributing to the reduction of street homelessness in the borough, which BronxWorks has presided over for the last three decades. “I’m very proud of the reduction in street homelessness in the Bronx. The work is not done, and we are committed to continuing this work to uplift the community.”

 

Alexandra Francis joined BronxWorks in July 2025 as the Executive Vice President of Supportive Housing and Homeless Services. In this role, Alex oversees the agency’s adult homeless services department, family residences, supportive housing, and other related initiatives.

Alex is a first-generation Haitian American who was born and raised in Brooklyn. Her family moved to Long Island when she was in elementary school, and she continued to live there for many years. She attended New York University for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, earning a B.A. and M.A. in Psychology. Alex always had an interest in understanding people, and she would frequently engage in conversation with strangers on her train rides to and from class. Alex began her career in mental health services, working with various types of providers and clientele, including those in the criminal justice system and people with a history of severe mental illness.

Alex eventually joined the Center for Urban Community Services, and during her 14 years with CUCS she grew her portfolio of work to include homeless outreach, supportive housing, and benefits acquisition for formerly incarcerated individuals. Alex was encouraged by colleagues to pursue her Masters in Social Work to continue her career development. She was awarded a scholarship from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, allowing her to earn her MSW from Hunter College. Alex also participated in the American Express Leadership Academy, a program for nonprofit leaders to strengthen their leadership skills to drive lasting change in their communities. She then served as the Chief Program Officer at Lantern Community Services, directing their supportive housing and shelter divisions.

Alex joins BronxWorks with over 25 years in the nonprofit mental health and social services sector. Her experience will be invaluable as she leads our services supporting some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Alex appreciates the opportunity to work for an agency with such a wide range of services, supporting the community in every facet of life. “The agency does not just sit in the Bronx, it serves the Bronx,” says Alex. “We’re not just leaving our own footprint, but working to enrich the lives of those who live in and are from the Bronx.”

Outside of work, Alex is a mentor for SHNNY’s RELISH initiative, cultivating the next generation of talent in service to marginalized communities. She also loves to travel and spend as much time as she can with family.

 

Alexandra Francis joined BronxWorks in July 2025 as the Executive Vice President of Supportive Housing and Homeless Services. In this role, Alex oversees the agency’s adult homeless services department, family residences, supportive housing, and other related initiatives.

Alex is a first-generation Haitian American who was born and raised in Brooklyn. Her family moved to Long Island when she was in elementary school, and she continued to live there for many years. She attended New York University for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, earning a B.A. and M.A. in Psychology. Alex always had an interest in understanding people, and she would frequently engage in conversation with strangers on her train rides to and from class. Alex began her career in mental health services, working with various types of providers and clientele, including those in the criminal justice system and people with a history of severe mental illness.

Alex eventually joined the Center for Urban Community Services, and during her 14 years with CUCS she grew her portfolio of work to include homeless outreach, supportive housing, and benefits acquisition for formerly incarcerated individuals. Alex was encouraged by colleagues to pursue her Masters in Social Work to continue her career development. She was awarded a scholarship from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, allowing her to earn her MSW from Hunter College. Alex also participated in the American Express Leadership Academy, a program for nonprofit leaders to strengthen their leadership skills to drive lasting change in their communities. She then served as the Chief Program Officer at Lantern Community Services, directing their supportive housing and shelter divisions.

Alex joins BronxWorks with over 25 years in the nonprofit mental health and social services sector. Her experience will be invaluable as she leads our services supporting some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Alex appreciates the opportunity to work for an agency with such a wide range of services, supporting the community in every facet of life. “The agency does not just sit in the Bronx, it serves the Bronx,” says Alex. “We’re not just leaving our own footprint, but working to enrich the lives of those who live in and are from the Bronx.”

Outside of work, Alex is a mentor for SHNNY’s RELISH initiative, cultivating the next generation of talent in service to marginalized communities. She also loves to travel and spend as much time as she can with family.

 

Gregory Adams joined BronxWorks in March 2025 as the Director of Security. In this position, Greg oversees security and fire safety operations across all BronxWorks sites, including our shelters, safe havens, drop-in centers, and stabilization bed sites. He is responsible for evaluating security needs, implementing best practices, recruiting qualified security personnel, leading risk mitigation efforts, and more.

Greg was born and raised in Brooklyn by a single mother, alongside his twin brother. Greg’s mother worked as a NYC public school teacher for over three decades, inspiring him to also dedicate himself to helping others in his community. After re-establishing a relationship with his father, Greg learned his father also worked in the NYC public school system for over two decades and they were members of the same union. His family’s dedication to public service furthered Greg’s desire to make an impact on his community and pursue law enforcement.

“I love to make people feel safe. It’s the thing I know how to do best.”

Greg joined BronxWorks with over three decades of experience in public safety and security. He started his career with the NYPD in 1997, serving as an Auxiliary Police Officer for several years. He then joined the NYC Department of Homeless Services Police as a Peace Officer in 2002, where he remained for over 20 years and rose to the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and finally Captain. He was also simultaneously working for the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons, starting as a Correctional Officer trainee and ascending the ranks to Senior Officer Specialist. In this position, Greg gained experience in another form of shelter security at the federal level. Throughout his career, Greg developed a specialty focus on security policy. He participated in committees to improve policies and led the development and implementation of new procedures.

Greg transitioned to BronxWorks to make a greater impact on his community, and he is excited to leverage his experiences to elevate the organization’s safety as we continue to expand. Since joining the organization, Greg has implemented new security policies, hired dozens of new security personnel, and fostered a strong camaraderie among his staff. “I’m really big on a family environment for my team,” says Greg. “It’s important to have that extra level of care for one another. I’m lucky to have started developing that with my security coordinators and other staff.” As Director of Security, Greg plays a vital role in maintaining a secure and supportive environment for those seeking services and those providing services at BronxWorks.

Outside of work, Greg enjoys cars, traveling to warmer climates, and spending time with his 13-year-old daughter.

Gregory Adams joined BronxWorks in March 2025 as the Director of Security. In this position, Greg oversees security and fire safety operations across all BronxWorks sites, including our shelters, safe havens, drop-in centers, and stabilization bed sites. He is responsible for evaluating security needs, implementing best practices, recruiting qualified security personnel, leading risk mitigation efforts, and more.

Greg was born and raised in Brooklyn by a single mother, alongside his twin brother. Greg’s mother worked as a NYC public school teacher for over three decades, inspiring him to also dedicate himself to helping others in his community. After re-establishing a relationship with his father, Greg learned his father also worked in the NYC public school system for over two decades and they were members of the same union. His family’s dedication to public service furthered Greg’s desire to make an impact on his community and pursue law enforcement.

“I love to make people feel safe. It’s the thing I know how to do best.”

Greg joined BronxWorks with over three decades of experience in public safety and security. He started his career with the NYPD in 1997, serving as an Auxiliary Police Officer for several years. He then joined the NYC Department of Homeless Services Police as a Peace Officer in 2002, where he remained for over 20 years and rose to the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and finally Captain. He was also simultaneously working for the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons, starting as a Correctional Officer trainee and ascending the ranks to Senior Officer Specialist. In this position, Greg gained experience in another form of shelter security at the federal level. Throughout his career, Greg developed a specialty focus on security policy. He participated in committees to improve policies and led the development and implementation of new procedures.

Greg transitioned to BronxWorks to make a greater impact on his community, and he is excited to leverage his experiences to elevate the organization’s safety as we continue to expand. Since joining the organization, Greg has implemented new security policies, hired dozens of new security personnel, and fostered a strong camaraderie among his staff. “I’m really big on a family environment for my team,” says Greg. “It’s important to have that extra level of care for one another. I’m lucky to have started developing that with my security coordinators and other staff.” As Director of Security, Greg plays a vital role in maintaining a secure and supportive environment for those seeking services and those providing services at BronxWorks.

Outside of work, Greg enjoys cars, traveling to warmer climates, and spending time with his 13-year-old daughter.