Meet the Graduates
From Eco-Hub Fellows to Corps Members
Meet the ECO-HUB FELLOWs
The Eco-Hub Fellows model debuted in 2020 alongside the launch of the Eco-Hubs model. Fellows are GCF graduates who have returned for a second term in a leadership position. They serve as role models to new members, helping lead them in service and gaining practical experience in leading a group. They work closely with their Service Coordinator and other Program team staff to push the Eco-Hub vision forward and support in meeting goals and deliverables. And they continue to deepen and expand their training in youth development, advanced agriculture & horticulture, high-level professional skills including data management, and individualized career-based training.
Jermaine Cousins
Age 25, Bailey, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
While this isn't my first term at Green City Force, it was this second term during the pandemic that truly displayed my growth. I took on the role of eco hub fellow and helped lead my fellow cohort members. I did things I did not think I was capable of and grew to understand myself and others more. I feel that this time I will truly miss and cherish my time at Green City Force.
MJ Dobison
Age 21, Bushwick, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
Green City Force, never ceases to amaze me. I always knew I was going to be something. I just didn’t see any of this coming. My term was filled with trials and tribulations but I completed the term like I knew I would with a chip on my shoulder and knowledge I can keep with me for the rest of my life.
Devante Haynes
Age 24, Bay View, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
Roman Martin
Age 22, Todt Hil, Staten Island
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
GCF has means many things to me but most importantly it means opportunity. Being in GCF has given knowledge on things I would not even think to ask about. Gave my task to demonstrate my growth as EHF from a corps member. And the opportunity to once again meet new people and friends. Before this I wasn’t doing much due the fact that the pandemic halted both my job prospects. So when the offer to comeback and join as an EHF I took it. The most important thing I learned in GCF was that you leave an impression. No mater how big or small, you leave a little piece about yourself with the community and the people you meet doing this type of work.
Joey Rodriguez
Age 24, Weeksville, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
Green City Force means family to me. We always support one another to achieve the goal we all were trying to achieve. I choose to become an Eco-Hub fellow because I want to continue helping our community that need greenery in their area and give them the chance to have a healthy life with all the greenery around them. Before I was an Eco-Hub fellow I was a Corps Member for cohort 20 and a new father. The most important thing I learned from GCF was to enjoy my surroundings, the animals, plants, and everything else around me. I want to thank Farmer John (R.I.P) for teaching me everything I know about farming, like he used to say “It’s not a job if you love doing it everyday.”
Steven Roig
Age 25, South Beach, Staten Island
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
This is my second term of service joined back in 2018-2019. I joined back with GCF to become an Eco-Hub Fellow so now I have an opportunity to lead young adults. I’m so proud of myself more than ever, accomplished personal growth and maturity. I can’t thank the GCF staff enough every single one of you made an impact in my life. Now, I'm able to apply towards supervisor positions. More confident then I was now back then. Giving myself more credit then undermining my growth. I will prevail no matter what!!! From cohort 17 and 21 we shall triumph over any obstacle in our path.
Safiyyah Wilkerson
Age 24, Whitman, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
Jawann Zeigler
Age 22, Highbridge, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
Cohort 21 Chant
Cohort chants have become ingrained in GCF culture over the years. Each cohort develops their own unique chant during orientation, a collaborative effort in teamwork and developing their cohort identity. Chants are used to inspire and unite - as a reminder to both members and the community what GCF is about and reinforcing members' commitment to the work, to service, and to themselves.
MEET THE CORPS MEMBERS
DARREN ARCHIBALD
Age 22, Marcy, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
My experience with GCF was very interesting. I have learned a lot of things that I would not have really known about before like how to deal with white flies on plants or how to take care of soil and certain crops. Alongside learning all of that information from GCF I met a lot of really good staff members and my fellow cohort members as well. I also engaged with the community to give back to them with food and events where they can bring their families and friends. The overall experience was definitely awesome and GCF is something I will never forget.
KENYAN BAKER
Age 24, Vladeck, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
Being a person from the South, having the opportunity to work on a farm in NYC means a lot to me. I chose to become a GCF member because I knew that this program would help shape me to become the person I always wanted to be. The support from the staff is unmatched. I learned patience, humility, and more about food and racial injustices than I would ever know. Any person to join GCF is a lucky person and would not regret their experience.
JeffERy Bethea
Age 22, Butler, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
Throughout my brief, yet meaningful time in the service of Green City Force, I have realized that it is a program that gives those part of it great opportunities not only to better themselves, but new skills to apply in future endeavors. I had decided to take a year off from college when my mom told me about this program. My sister used to take part, and I wished to take part in the service as she had. When the pandemic hit, I became a delivery boy transporting pharmaceuticals to people around my neighborhood. When I applied to GCF, I saw the program as a great way to earn money, but along the way I also received much more, such as an OSHA10, GPRO certificate, and a new way of living. I want to thank my Service Coordinators Precious, Jawaan and Shontanyce for supporting us along the way, as well as my fellow Corps Members for putting in the work as a group to make residents' lives more manageable. I would like to give a special shout out to the late John Cannizzo, I hope you're resting knowing that we will pick up where you left off.
Shaquare Burnell
Age 19, Lillian Wald, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
Green City Force means a community that bands together to ensure that everyone grows. They mirror the saying it takes a village. I chose GCF because I wanted a new experience. There were a lot of things that were unknown and I wanted to expand on my knowledge. Before GCF I was trying to figure out what I was going to do in life. The most important thing that I learned during GCF is being appreciative of the opportunities and the privilege I have. This was an amazing experience that I have had a chance to be a part of. Learning that GCF was a huge privilege made me realize that I had a fighting chance to actually take control of my future. Allowing myself to open up a little bit more paved a way for there to be exposure to different people and their views which allows there to be learning from each other rather than judgment. Green City Force allowed there to be a realization that I can become a greater me by any means necessary. The growth that started in GCF will not just stop from there. Green City Force was just the beginning to the path of greatness.
Chasidy Clarke
Age 22, Ocean Bay, Queens
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
Green City Force to me is a second chance. I felt lost and as if my life was at a stand still until I enrolled in Green City Force. I gained a variety of opportunities and chances such as many certifications and trainings which built my resume so much. I had a lot of goals set for myself that I procrastinated on until GCF helped and motivated me down the right path in reaching these goals and expectations I’ve set for myself.
Nachary Clemente
Age 21, Mott Haven, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
Karim Couser
Age 23, Johnson, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
Prior to Green City Force, I was a college freshmen overwhelmed with the thought of my next steps amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Through utilizing my resources from my previous completed AmeriCorps service term, I found an opportunity in Green City Force that I knew would be the right fit for me. Since then, Green City Force has steered me into the right direction in terms of future careers and revitalized my love for the community and the environment. Throughout my service term, I was reminded of the importance of communication and accountability and obtained the hard and soft skills needed to be punctual and self-sufficient in my personal and work life. I believe a program like GCF, where I had the ability to reflect on my areas of improvement through the help of my service coordinator and staff, where they constantly tried to help me become the best version of myself, was the best place for me to become the better version of myself and have a brighter future.
Torrey Ellison
Age 22, Frederick Samuels, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
My experience in Green City Force was very life changing. Not only did I gain experience in a lot of different areas, I was also challenging myself as a person. I wanted change in my life and GCF was the right place to do it. It’s a positive service that helped me get out of my comfort zone and to prepare me for what I want to do in life. After the six months are over I came out of the program ready to start my first phase of what I want to do as an adult. I also feel that my mind was expanded into a way that helps me be successful. All the staff are good mentors and willing to make sure that time at GCF wasn’t wasted. I became more mature and learned a lot of life hacks that I think are beneficial. Very fun experience, it opens eyes to different things and possibilities.
Melinda Figueroa
Age 20, St. Mary’s, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
I was interested in GCF because I saw that there were many opportunities for me. GCF wasn’t just a job, it was a place to grow and gain experience. Before I got accepted into the program I was staying home looking for employment however it was difficult because I had no experience, no one wanted to take a chance on me. I’m thankful for GCF because not only did they teach me a lot and start my career they gave me a chance, when no other company or job wanted to.
Jacob Gomez
Age 21, Stanley Isaac, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
My experience in GCF was a learning experience. I learned that being resilient and focused is what will get me through my work. Serving on the farm and talking with my peers and supervisors on the field showed me that you must have a voice. It is important to communicate with your peers to be able to get things done more efficiently. I chose to become a Corps Member because I wanted to jump start some sort of framework, figure out what essential skills I need to get into the working field and what I would want to do as a job. The most important thing I learned from GCF is punctuality and having a voice is very important. To be on time is important, and being able to communicate your needs as to what you need.
Jeffery Guillen
Age 22, Red Hook, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
Being a part of Green City Force has given me a sense of purpose, It was an outlet for me to develop myself professionally and personally. I chose to be a Corps Member with Green City Force because I was unemployed and sought out an occupation that would be productive in helping me seek a career path. Before Green City Force I planned to pursue a career within the energy field but was unsuccessful due to my lack of experience. Green City Force provided basic fundamental skills that would ensure young adults a brighter better future. During my time with Green City Force I was exposed to a lot of teachings and perspectives. It has broadened my mind and it has changed my views on the world. Prior to becoming a Corps Member I was completely unaware of the injustices that plagued our communities but working through the harsh climates in order to provide a more sustainable and resilient environment I became more passionate and I immersed myself in the fight to dismantle social, economic, and food injustices. One of the most important things that I learned from Green City force was the importance of being able to stand up for yourself and being confident. I attribute my new found love of life to the heartwarming and kind staff of Green City Force and I thank my team who worked alongside me in the Howard site. My time being a Corp Member was productive and effective in reshaping and improving myself as a person. I'd like to thank the entire Green City Force organization for affording me with such an opportunity and experience when no one else saw the potential in me.
Louvinious Harris
Age 19, Nostrand, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
To me, GCF has been an ocean of perspectives and understandings that has brought me one puzzle piece closer to my understanding of life. My original reason for me becoming a Corps Member was mainly for monetary reasons because I didn’t like my previous job, but then I grew to like the concept of growing crops in an urban setting to help promote healthy eating in the community. The most important thing I learned from GCF/GCA (Green City Force Academy) was an in-depth understanding of perspectives/ how to grow crops and maintain a farm. I want to first and foremost thank GOD for giving me the strength to persevere through this program and I want to thank myself for staying committed and actually finishing my service term. Next, I want to thank Justin, my supervisor at Mariners for being the leader that the Mariners team and I needed. I also want to thank my team at Mariners for holding it down. Finally, I want to thank Steve, Felicia, and the rest of the GCF support staff for their words of advice. It’s just the beginning for me and it’s not about where I’m at that matters; it’s where I’m headed.
America Hernandez
Age 24, Adams, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
I chose to become a GCF member because I was curious about the NYCHA farms and how to be energy efficient, but I’ve learned much more. GCF has been an eye opening experience and I am very much glad I decided to sign up for this program. The most important thing I have learned during my time here at GCF is that I have a voice and it matters. Being in and helping out a community has opened my mind, makes me feel important and like I'm helping out my friends, family, and neighbors. I would like to thank Jelani Dixon, my Service Coordinator at Forest Houses. He has always been a positive role model and I am very thankful for him always wanting the best from me and my Corp Members. Making sure we were ok throughout the day, always helping us out if we had questions, reminding us we can be and do better. Green City Force has been a great experience and this program means a lot to me and I hope to many others. I’ve earned so much more than expected and I'm very grateful for GCF letting me become part of their family.
Nykeba Huggins
Age 24, King Towers, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
Green City Force means to me pure youth development at it’s finest. We are learning energy, agriculture, solar panels, how to heal from trauma, how to break down systems and how to build them up. Participants were able to get their Osha10. I chose to become a Corps Member because I wanted to get back to my roots and learn what my grandmother was trying to teach me before she passed away when I was nine years old. I feel like if she would have told me this information I would be in a different place in my life today. So, now I am learning to become a better me. Before GCF I was working in energy temporarily and I thought it was pretty cool so GCF was glad to hear that I had some experience with energy.
Demetrius Jones
Age 19, Van Dyke, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
Green City Force means a lot to me because when I first entered this program I was a very quiet person who stayed independent & didn’t like talking to people, but after a few months made some friends who understood me and where I came from. I chose GCF because I had a lot of friends who came to this program and said this was a great program with a lot of trainings that lead to a career. I also joined because I wanted to improve on my professional development. Before GCF I was working for UPS and then became jobless because I wouldn’t settle- that company just wasn’t a career path that I wanted to take. One thing I learned is that you have to be comfortable being uncomfortable.
Matthew Lajara
Age 19, Wagner, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
Before GCF I wasn't really doing much but staying at home with my family and hanging out with my friends. One day my mom showed me this flyer and told me about the program. At first I wasn't interested but when I saw previous Corps Members supporting my community I wanted to join in with the program. I joined GCF because I always loved to give a helping hand when it's needed, no matter what the situation is- it’s just in my nature to help others. I think the most important thing that I have learned in GCF is to always support your fellow peers and work together to become more efficient.
Jason Lorenzo
Age 19, Forest, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
At the beginning of Green City Force I saw this program as an opportunity to learn and gain new skills especially on something I enjoy, agriculture. That is why I choose to become a Corps member for GCF. Before I became a Corps Member for GCF I had just graduated high school and was focused to make my business a reality. I signed up for the program at first so I can learn as many skills as possible, I only wanted to focus on myself. That changed because GCF helped me to help and engage one another. I enjoyed it and created a family- thank you.
Dontik Martin
Age 23, Tompkins, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
Before Green City Force I felt like a wanderer, I felt lost, conflicted, and most importantly, I felt like all I did had no true significance; I had the drive with no real road to traverse upon Fury Road. I did construction / demolition, moving, and even cooking, and yet none of that felt like my service time with Meals on Wheels back in my time in High School - until Green City Force. I’ve always tried to do right or help people since I was in pampers and it even stuck with me all the way through but since I can remember, everything had always left me feeling empty like a simple cog or like nothing was truly accomplished (with that one exception). I joined GCF with the simple intent to just get all the knowledge I could and get a stipend, but during my term here I learned what comes with this great power. I have to thank the entire Cohort 21 for the odyssey they’ve journeyed with me and the members who brave the challenge after us. If no one else does it, we must because we can.
Isaiah Narvaez
Age 22, Marcy, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
Green City Force has been a very helpful and awakening experience. It helped me open up to others and has made me develop many great habits. I am very grateful for Green City Force for being there for me and not allowing me to slip up. I want to thank Hakim and Devante as well for being there for me in times where I felt like I would not finish my term. They brought me back up and helped me finish strong. Overall, Green City Force has helped me become a better person and a better father and I will always be grateful.
Richard Nunez
Age 20, Tompkins, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
I graduated high school in 2019 and applied to Green City Force in 2020. I heard about GCF through my brother who was part of cohort 17 and told me it would be a good, very helpful experience. Green City Force has changed a lot in me. I came in with the mentality of a job but instead it helped me grow I’ve become more outspoken and less and more independent it helped me just gain so much knowledge to be successful for what comes next. I’ve had a great term and appreciate every opportunity that was given to me.
Nyasia Phyall
Age 22, Bay View, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
Before joining Green City Force, I wasn't doing anything or going anywhere. I had just dropped out of college and my job hunting was uninspired at best. I joined because I needed something to do, something to learn. Because of GCF, I've been able to keep learning like I wanted to and in a nontraditional classroom environment. The most important thing I've learned is to ask for help when I need it. Here at GCF, there's always someone nearby willing to help lighten the load and I'm very grateful when I get to be that person. I want to thank my team and staff for the support they've shown Cohort 21 these last six months, especially the people that work behind the scenes. I also want to thank myself for persevering and keeping motivated, even toward the end.
Aqilah Richardson
Age 26, Brevoort, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
Before I joined Green City Force (GCF), I felt like my life was going nowhere. I dropped out of college and had trouble finding work. After reading a flyer posted in the lobby of my building I immediately became interested. My GCF journey started with an information session with one of the recruiters. It was a long, tedious process joining Cohort 21 and on several occasions I even thought about quitting. But I chose to push through it all and now I can honestly say that Green City Force has changed my life for the better. Through this program I have developed a stronger work ethic. This program has taught me to reach my full potential. I am better prepared for the professional world and I now have better chances of success. I am proud to have had the opportunity to serve my community, promoting environmental awareness and food justice for all. This has been an experience that I will never forget.
Raymond Rivera
Age 21, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
For me Green City Force was something that helped me gain a little confidence and more of a sense of self worth that I lacked. Before Green City Force I was in a state of stagnation mentally and emotionally, I felt as if I was stuck with balls and chains attached to my wrists and ankles making sure I could not move forward. The most important thing I learned during my time in Green City Force is that I’m worth so much more than I think I am and that I don’t deserve to feel the way people from my past have made me feel for so long. I’ve been constantly told I’m not ugly, that I’m smart & strong by family and friends. Yet I never believed them and I still don’t if I’m being honest, but doing this program has helped me take steps forward to loving myself. For that I am truly grateful so thank you to everyone who’s accepted me for me in Green City Force.
Matthew Roig
Age 18, South Beach, Staten Island
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
Green City Force was an essential stepping stone to my professional development, life and career goals. I chose to become a Corps Member with GCF because I first saw the impact it left on my brother. After educating myself more of what GCF had to offer I convinced my mom it was my obligation to join. Before GCF, I just graduated high school in Pennsylvania where I was raised. Then, I convinced my mom for months for me to move back to NY where I could pursue my own agenda, seeking to be an AmeriCorps member. I learned so much in my term ranging from farming, land agriculture and energy sustainability. I also learned how to advocate for myself in a professional way and I learned various styles of leadership. I would love to thank my brother for paving the way for myself to become a standout Corps Member. I would like to also thank my Service Coordinator Justin Baker and Hakim Jeffery for the insurmountable approach to leading and teaching and helping grow as an individual. Never can I forget the Mariners Harbor squad.
Joshua Roman
Age 22, Bay View, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Bay View Houses
I decided to become a Corps Member with GCF because I needed a step in the right direction. I had become complacent in the years prior to my service & I was past due a change. I was looking to find a bigger sense of purpose, harness my skills & find a career that I'm truly passionate about. To say that I've accomplished my goals would be an understatement, but I still strive to gain new skills & look to grow further. I would like to thank my whole Cohort for holding me down & being a pillar of support for not only me but each other as well.
Jeremiah Sanchez
Age 19, Tompkins, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
My experience at Green City Force is an experience I will never forget because the amount of skills that I have improved on makes me want to share it with others. The way I was guided helped me grow on my communication and infrastructure skills and has helped me develop different ways of explaining things by being very detailed and specific. Not only have I grown to the GCF lifestyle but it kind of grew on me. Seeing so many people smile made me want to continue doing what I’m doing and teaching others means a lot more than anyone thinks it does. That was my Green City Force experience.
Keisha Scott
Age 25, Beach 41, Queens
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
I never knew how much a training program could mean to me. I have felt lost for a long time, working horrible retail jobs and I had no idea what I wanted to do. COVID-19 has changed our world so drastically and finding work has been especially hard. Green City Force offered financial help and job training that is very hard to find in this pandemic. I did not know what exactly to expect during the program. The one thing I knew to expect was learning how to farm and working outdoors. Fortunately enough I learned so much more. They have taught me how to stand up for myself and to never be afraid of your dreams. GCF showed me what it is like to have a real support system and people who actually want to see you succeed. I care so much about this program and everyone in it because we are all here for each other. We all know what it’s like to feel lost or to want better for yourself but not know the steps to get there. We all came to Green City Force for the same reason, to do something with ourselves and to make change within our lives. After becoming a Corps Member, I have embraced my intellectual abilities and know my self-worth. Green City Force has really inspired me to be a better person professionally and personally. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I know what to do with my life. And I am so grateful that GCF and my family has helped me through this journey.
Anaisha Smith
Age 22, Sedgwick, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Wagner Houses
Although GCF caught me at a weird time in my life, I’ll never forget the people I met through this program. Some of them I never expected to hold so dear to my heart and I genuinely feel like I’ve grown more into the type of person I want to be because of them. My Service Coordinator Jelani along with a few other staff at GCF were a huge delight to work with and they not only taught me how to know my worth as a worker but as a person as well.
Dixon Suazo
Age 21, Adams, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
What Green City Force has meant to me was a time of self growth and learning new skills. I've learned how to be responsible within this program and punctual by learning how to work with my team. Before GCF, I worked in a sneaker store and now I see that there are more better things I can do. The most important thing I learned in GCF is to be patient and to interact with your team members because the advice they give you is so that you can grow as a co-worker.
Kashaun Thomas
Age 20, Glenwood, Brooklyn
Eco-Hub Site: Howard Houses
My experience with Green City Force is different in a good way and the reason why I say that is because I’d never done farm work a day in my life. So for me to have gone through this journey was something special, that was what GCF meant to me. The reason why I wanted to become a Corps Member for GCF was because I admire the fact that we are trying to better our developments with fresh organic foods so that residents don't have to rely on supermarkets for healthy food. Before I joined GCF I was in automotive trade school, gaining the knowledge to work with cars, and I also did a little bit of electrical work too. I would say the most important thing I learned from GCF was just the perspective of being the worker/provider for developments that we all worked in. Being able to feed families and brighten up NYCHAdevelopments was awesome to me. People I would thank the most are my Howard team members in general hands down the one of the best groups I've been in including the Eco Hub Fellows. Paul brightens my day every time he's able to be at the farm. And also a big shout out to the Roig Brothers (Matthew/Steven) that’s my dawgs from a far.
Maria Urena
Age 22, McKinley, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
My experience at Green City Force has been amazing. Before Green City Force I was a stay at home mom, six months postpartum with depression. I didn’t really know what my future was going to look like, after becoming a mom I thought I was not going to be able to do anything with my life. It is definitely hard but not impossible. Green City Force gave me the space to be hopeful, dream again and to have aspirations. I’m more confident in myself. One thing I learned from Green City Force is to not let fear control my life because I’m capable of anything if I put my mind to it. Whatever I want to do, if I let fear get inside my head it will just be controlling every decision. Being out of my comfort zone is scary but that is the only way I can challenge myself, evolve as a person and just see a change. I might fail, but what is success without failure? I want to thank Jelani for always being there for us, being so supportive and understanding, and a perfect example of a leader- the best Service Coordinator. I can’t wait to continue being part of a great team GREEN CITY FORCE!
Brianna Walters
Age 21, Mott Haven, Bronx
Eco-Hub Site: Forest Houses
When I started Green city force I was really shy and quiet. Throughout the few months at Green City Force I mostly got over my shyness and started speaking up more with my team members at Forest. Green City Force is more than just a job; it's more like a family teaching others how to make their community much stronger by working together as a team. Throughout the few months in GCF I learned more about composting and gave out produce to the community.
Aliyyah Yishrael
Age 20, Carver, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
Reflecting on my 6 months at Green City Force, my experience was packed full of information and learning. Throughout the course of the program, I’ve had many pleasant experiences, of which include interacting with my fellow cohort members and making friendships, and distributing produce to residents. The residents were thankful we were helping out their community. It felt good to make a positive change in other communities, giving them a sense that someone is always there to help them out. Before this program, I had to take a break from college to pay for my previous semester. I have had a big interest in plants and nature beforehand, so Green City Force’s goal focusing on environmental sustainability got me interested in the program. From these past 6 months, I’ve gained the knowledge on how to provide food for myself and my family members when it is needed the most and the importance of making and maintaining connections. I am now ready to put myself in the spotlight of hopefully working in the sustainability field where I can shine. I would like to give a special thank you to Justin Baker, Steven Roig, and Roman Martin for guiding me to a sustainable future.
Azarahyah Yishrael
Age 23, Carver, Manhattan
Eco-Hub Site: Mariners Harbor Houses
I had no idea of what to expect coming into Green City Force. Before GCF, I was taking a break from school, which was also around the time when I first saw the poster for the program. What instantly caught my attention was the farming aspect of it. Even though I got to learn a lot about farming, I also walked away with so much more knowledge than I probably know what to do with. Sustainability, farming, energy conservation, and recycling are only some of the things I learned during my time at GCF. I also got to meet and work alongside many different amazing and well rounded individuals that I’m proud to have had as my Corps Members. I also had an amazing Service Coordinator in Justin Baker, & Eco Hub Fellows in Steven Roig & Roman Martin. These three have done what they can to help us Corps Members get through our service term, taught us many things we didn’t know before, and become not only our mentors, but also very close friends. Through these interactions, I got to learn a bit more about myself in the process, and come out of my shell a little more. I feel as though I’ve grown as a person overall and feel more confident in myself and my abilities. Being a part of Green City Force has given me a sense of belonging and a sense of community. All I can say now is thank you Green City Force -- staff and Corps Members alike -- for everything you’ve done for me.