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.

Opal Henderson joined BronxWorks in pursuit of her heart’s passion to work with young people in her community. Opal originally came to New York City to pursue teaching, but instead she began her career in the banking industry. She attended Bronx Community College and graduated from Lehman College with a degree in Accounting. Opal found great success in the financial field and even considered going back to school to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). However, despite her strengths in this industry, Opal remained passionate about and drawn to teaching.

Opal heard about BronxWorks from a friend and employee, who was being promoted within the organization and leaving their Internship Coordinator position. When she learned of the immense work BronxWorks does and the ability to work with older youth as an Internship Coordinator, she jumped at the opportunity. Opal started in this position in May 2022 at the Jill Chaifetz Transfer School (JCTS), a NYC public high school designed for youth aged 16-21 who are under-credited. Opal’s previous work experiences have aided in her work at JCTS; “I’m able to impart knowledge and lessons learned to my students,” says Opal.  “I tell them, If I can do this, so can you.” After just a year as Internship Coordinator, Opal was promoted to Program Director of JCTS.

As the BronxWorks Program Director at JCTS, Opal works in collaboration with the school principal, teachers, and other BronxWorks staff to ensure that the students have the resources and support they need to succeed in school and beyond. She also facilitates connections for students to other BronxWorks services, such as workforce development, college preparation, food access, and more. Many older students are facing challenges that hinder their ability to finish school on the intended timeline, and JCTS offers a support system for them as they have a second chance to earn their high school diploma. Opal and the other dedicated staff at JCTS empower the students to see beyond their circumstances and instill a sense of hope for the future. “I see myself as a driving force for the future, sparking a light within them to see beyond right now.”

Now fulfilling her heart’s passion, Opal says it is never a struggle to go to work. While every day can present a new challenge, she and her colleagues care deeply about their students and work tirelessly to see them succeed. Opal values the abundance of resources BronxWorks has beyond JCTS because she can support her students, as well as their families, with whatever services they may need.

If there’s a way to get it done, BronxWorks will make a way.

Both within and beyond her work, Opal loves to meet new people. She also enjoys traveling outside of work and has recently visited Jamaica, San Diego, Delaware, the Dominican Republic, England, and the Cayman Islands.

Opal Henderson joined BronxWorks in pursuit of her heart’s passion to work with young people in her community. Opal originally came to New York City to pursue teaching, but instead she began her career in the banking industry. She attended Bronx Community College and graduated from Lehman College with a degree in Accounting. Opal found great success in the financial field and even considered going back to school to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). However, despite her strengths in this industry, Opal remained passionate about and drawn to teaching.

Opal heard about BronxWorks from a friend and employee, who was being promoted within the organization and leaving their Internship Coordinator position. When she learned of the immense work BronxWorks does and the ability to work with older youth as an Internship Coordinator, she jumped at the opportunity. Opal started in this position in May 2022 at the Jill Chaifetz Transfer School (JCTS), a NYC public high school designed for youth aged 16-21 who are under-credited. Opal’s previous work experiences have aided in her work at JCTS; “I’m able to impart knowledge and lessons learned to my students,” says Opal.  “I tell them, If I can do this, so can you.” After just a year as Internship Coordinator, Opal was promoted to Program Director of JCTS.

As the BronxWorks Program Director at JCTS, Opal works in collaboration with the school principal, teachers, and other BronxWorks staff to ensure that the students have the resources and support they need to succeed in school and beyond. She also facilitates connections for students to other BronxWorks services, such as workforce development, college preparation, food access, and more. Many older students are facing challenges that hinder their ability to finish school on the intended timeline, and JCTS offers a support system for them as they have a second chance to earn their high school diploma. Opal and the other dedicated staff at JCTS empower the students to see beyond their circumstances and instill a sense of hope for the future. “I see myself as a driving force for the future, sparking a light within them to see beyond right now.”

Now fulfilling her heart’s passion, Opal says it is never a struggle to go to work. While every day can present a new challenge, she and her colleagues care deeply about their students and work tirelessly to see them succeed. Opal values the abundance of resources BronxWorks has beyond JCTS because she can support her students, as well as their families, with whatever services they may need.

If there’s a way to get it done, BronxWorks will make a way.

Both within and beyond her work, Opal loves to meet new people. She also enjoys traveling outside of work and has recently visited Jamaica, San Diego, Delaware, the Dominican Republic, England, and the Cayman Islands.

Luiggi Montanero grew up in the Inwood neighborhood of New York City with a passion for music. He took advantage of arts programs offered through his high school and also spent time outside of school writing and producing songs. Luiggi attended SUNY Fredonia, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus in the music industry. In a full-circle moment, Luiggi’s first job after college was with an arts-focused nonprofit, the same organization that provided arts programming at his high school.

Luiggi worked as an Institutional Development Manager at the arts nonprofit, and later he continued to work in development with a for-profit company that established funding systems for arts-related nonprofits. In these roles, Luiggi became familiar with the social service sector while maintaining his passion for the arts as part of his career. Luiggi came to BronxWorks in 2024 as the Tenant Services Coordinator at The Brook, a supportive housing complex where BronxWorks is the social service provider. He heard about the position from his sister, who previously worked at The Brook and other BronxWorks locations. In his position at The Brook, Luiggi is still able to involve his passion for the arts in his work while continuing to support his community.

There have been opportunities here where I can bring some music and art into my work. A bunch of the residents here at The Brook are creatives themselves, too.”

In his work as Tenant Services Coordinator, Luiggi interacts with residents on a daily basis and oversees recreational activities and other services offered in the building. The Brook recently celebrated its 15^th Anniversary since the program began, and Luiggi was instrumental in the planning and implementation of that event. Other events for residents often involve some form of art therapy or allow opportunities for creativity. For example, residents at The Brook recently began a drama therapy group, where instructors lead participants through various theater drills and exercises as an outlet for emotional expression. Luiggi enjoys observing and participating in these activities because he learns more about various artforms while also further connecting with clients. In his position, Luiggi feels that he has a unique relationship with residents and can gain different insight than his peers.

The residents come to me and talk about different things that they may not share with others. So I’m able to help out on both sides – not only the clients, but also the staff. It helps to work as a team.”

Despite his original plans to pursue a career in the music industry, Luiggi says he has not considered changing fields, as there is already so much music and arts in his current position. At The Brook, he is still able to provide a safe space for people to delve deeper into their creativity, while also being a part of something more community-oriented. “I’ve never felt more fulfilled in a job,” said Luiggi.

Outside of work, Luiggi is a big proponent of personal wellness and enjoys going to the gym. He also continues to enjoy music and has been looking for new art forms to engage with throughout the city.

Luiggi Montanero grew up in the Inwood neighborhood of New York City with a passion for music. He took advantage of arts programs offered through his high school and also spent time outside of school writing and producing songs. Luiggi attended SUNY Fredonia, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus in the music industry. In a full-circle moment, Luiggi’s first job after college was with an arts-focused nonprofit, the same organization that provided arts programming at his high school.

Luiggi worked as an Institutional Development Manager at the arts nonprofit, and later he continued to work in development with a for-profit company that established funding systems for arts-related nonprofits. In these roles, Luiggi became familiar with the social service sector while maintaining his passion for the arts as part of his career. Luiggi came to BronxWorks in 2024 as the Tenant Services Coordinator at The Brook, a supportive housing complex where BronxWorks is the social service provider. He heard about the position from his sister, who previously worked at The Brook and other BronxWorks locations. In his position at The Brook, Luiggi is still able to involve his passion for the arts in his work while continuing to support his community.

There have been opportunities here where I can bring some music and art into my work. A bunch of the residents here at The Brook are creatives themselves, too.”

In his work as Tenant Services Coordinator, Luiggi interacts with residents on a daily basis and oversees recreational activities and other services offered in the building. The Brook recently celebrated its 15^th Anniversary since the program began, and Luiggi was instrumental in the planning and implementation of that event. Other events for residents often involve some form of art therapy or allow opportunities for creativity. For example, residents at The Brook recently began a drama therapy group, where instructors lead participants through various theater drills and exercises as an outlet for emotional expression. Luiggi enjoys observing and participating in these activities because he learns more about various artforms while also further connecting with clients. In his position, Luiggi feels that he has a unique relationship with residents and can gain different insight than his peers.

The residents come to me and talk about different things that they may not share with others. So I’m able to help out on both sides – not only the clients, but also the staff. It helps to work as a team.”

Despite his original plans to pursue a career in the music industry, Luiggi says he has not considered changing fields, as there is already so much music and arts in his current position. At The Brook, he is still able to provide a safe space for people to delve deeper into their creativity, while also being a part of something more community-oriented. “I’ve never felt more fulfilled in a job,” said Luiggi.

Outside of work, Luiggi is a big proponent of personal wellness and enjoys going to the gym. He also continues to enjoy music and has been looking for new art forms to engage with throughout the city.

Even as a child, Sheila Rodriguez, MBA, was troubled by the fact that people in her community lived without homes or enough food. Sheila knew from an early age that she wanted to work towards real change for her neighbors. Raised in the Bronx for most of her childhood, Sheila first learned the importance of community from her family. Her parents would often go out of their way to support those in need however they could. Her family’s generous actions and values instilled in Sheila a strong sense of compassion and care for others that has remained with her to this day.  

Throughout her life, Sheila has grown personally and professionally to make a positive impact in her community. She earned her BA in Criminal Justice from SUNY Oswego, and she earned her Master’s in Business Administration from Touro University last year. Sheila is currently working towards her Doctorate in Business Administration. Her ultimate goal is to have ‘a seat at the table’ of decision makers and to represent the needs of her community members.  

The significant need I see within our community, particularly concerning the homeless population, fuels my personal and professional interests. It has brought me to a place where I feel a strong calling to help break down the systemic barriers that have marginalized my clients for years.” 

Before joining BronxWorks and the social service sector, Sheila briefly worked in the fashion industry. While that job differed greatly from her current career, Sheila says she learned a lot about communicating with and understanding people, which now helps her immensely as a human services worker. Sheila joined BronxWorks in 2021 as a Case Manager for the Homebase program, in which she assisted those facing eviction with resources to keep them stably housed. After less than a year with the organization, Sheila was offered the Case Manager position in the BronxWorks Transform program, which supports families as they transition out of shelter and into long-term housing. Her knowledge from the Homebase program greatly informed her work in Transform, as she continued to support those fighting to remain stably housed.  

As the sole Case Manager of the Transform program, Sheila supports over 60 clients, most of whom have multiple children. She views her role as an advocate for the families; whatever they may be struggling with as they transition into housing, Sheila advocates for them and their needs. Her work is varied and often includes: mediating with landlords and utility companies; facilitating school enrollment and special education assessments; referring parents to the BronxWorks Workforce Development department and other internal resources; and much more. 

I strive to make each client feel seen, respected, and understood. I want them to know that their individual journey matters. It’s incredibly rewarding to work alongside someone, offering guidance and assistance, and to ultimately see them emerge with hope for a brighter future.”  

Outside of work and her studies, Sheila loves to hike and kayak. For her, downtime is best spent enjoying time with friends and family in nature to reconnect and recharge.  

Even as a child, Sheila Rodriguez, MBA, was troubled by the fact that people in her community lived without homes or enough food. Sheila knew from an early age that she wanted to work towards real change for her neighbors. Raised in the Bronx for most of her childhood, Sheila first learned the importance of community from her family. Her parents would often go out of their way to support those in need however they could. Her family’s generous actions and values instilled in Sheila a strong sense of compassion and care for others that has remained with her to this day.  

Throughout her life, Sheila has grown personally and professionally to make a positive impact in her community. She earned her BA in Criminal Justice from SUNY Oswego, and she earned her Master’s in Business Administration from Touro University last year. Sheila is currently working towards her Doctorate in Business Administration. Her ultimate goal is to have ‘a seat at the table’ of decision makers and to represent the needs of her community members.  

The significant need I see within our community, particularly concerning the homeless population, fuels my personal and professional interests. It has brought me to a place where I feel a strong calling to help break down the systemic barriers that have marginalized my clients for years.” 

Before joining BronxWorks and the social service sector, Sheila briefly worked in the fashion industry. While that job differed greatly from her current career, Sheila says she learned a lot about communicating with and understanding people, which now helps her immensely as a human services worker. Sheila joined BronxWorks in 2021 as a Case Manager for the Homebase program, in which she assisted those facing eviction with resources to keep them stably housed. After less than a year with the organization, Sheila was offered the Case Manager position in the BronxWorks Transform program, which supports families as they transition out of shelter and into long-term housing. Her knowledge from the Homebase program greatly informed her work in Transform, as she continued to support those fighting to remain stably housed.  

As the sole Case Manager of the Transform program, Sheila supports over 60 clients, most of whom have multiple children. She views her role as an advocate for the families; whatever they may be struggling with as they transition into housing, Sheila advocates for them and their needs. Her work is varied and often includes: mediating with landlords and utility companies; facilitating school enrollment and special education assessments; referring parents to the BronxWorks Workforce Development department and other internal resources; and much more. 

I strive to make each client feel seen, respected, and understood. I want them to know that their individual journey matters. It’s incredibly rewarding to work alongside someone, offering guidance and assistance, and to ultimately see them emerge with hope for a brighter future.”  

Outside of work and her studies, Sheila loves to hike and kayak. For her, downtime is best spent enjoying time with friends and family in nature to reconnect and recharge.