On October 16th, Neighborhood Housing Services of New Haven (NHS) gathered friends, partners, and neighbors at NXTHVN to celebrate 46 years of empowering families, strengthening neighborhoods, and building a more equitable New Haven. The evening was filled with art, laughter, gratitude, and a shared commitment to ensuring that everyone in our city has the opportunity to thrive.
Honoring Leadership and Community
Board President Leslie Radcliffe welcomed guests and emceed the evening with support from Board Member Mina Minelli. Leslie reflected on her 25 years with NHS, sharing memories of how much the organization has grown and how its mission has remained steady through every challenge.
She then introduced Mayor Justin Elicker, who reminisced about his long history with NHS, from volunteering to paint homes and working in community gardens to now joining ribbon cuttings for new affordable homes.
“You guys just get it,” said Mayor Elicker. “Even though you’re facing challenges, particularly with federal funding and the ability to do your work, you understand that investment in community isn’t just about the dollars. It’s about listening to people, helping residents drive your mission, and most importantly, not just creating a house, but a home.”
Partner Voices and Shared Impact
Next, guests heard from Terence Floyd, Vice President and Senior Social Impact Specialist for Wells Fargo, our event’s lead sponsor. As a former NHS Board Member, Terry spoke passionately about the organization’s impact.
“I do events like this all over New England,” he said, “but I don’t know another organization that matches the level of impact NHS has on communities, families, and individuals.”
Reflecting on Accomplishments and Mission
Executive Director Jim Paley then took the stage, highlighting both the challenges and achievements of the past year. He emphasized how NHS’s lines of business (Affordable Real Estate Development, Community Building & Organizing, the HomeOwnership Center, and Community Sustainability) work together to meet the diverse needs of our community and create lasting change.
Stories of Transformation
The evening’s most inspiring moments came from NHS homeowners sharing their personal journeys.
Sylvia Cooper, soon-to-be homeowner on Hazel Street, shared how NHS helped her find hope during one of the most difficult times of her life. Facing family challenges and the need for more space, Sylvia reached out to Bridgette Russell at the New Haven HomeOwnership Center and soon found a path forward.
“When I move in, I will clean up my community,” she said. “I’ll start beautification projects, because for me, it’s not just about moving in, it’s about giving back to the community that once gave to me.”
We also heard from La’Rie McGruder, proud homeowner of our gut-rehabilitated single-family home at 27 Frank Street. La’Rie shared the joy of homeownership and the sense of belonging she’s found in her new neighborhood.
“My neighbors love on me in a way I’ve never experienced,” she said. “That’s what community really means.”
La’Rie also thanked her support team, Housing Counselor Lindita Ifti, Realtor Herb Jackson, and Bridgette Russell. She described herself as a proud advocate for NHS, always carrying applications to share with others.
Celebrating Creativity and Service
The program continued with a moving poetry reading by New Haven Youth Poet Laureate Henry Mead, followed by Bridgette Russell’s presentation of the Annual Report — a reflection of the year’s progress and impact. Bridgette also surprised Executive Director Jim Paley with an honorary plaque recognizing his 45 years of service and dedication to the mission of NHS.
We also proudly recognized our outstanding partners and community leaders:
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HE Energy Solutions – Outstanding Energy Partner
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Jake Meketa – Outstanding Community Collaborator
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Karen Galbo – Housing Advocacy Champion
Jett Jonelis, Resource Development Manager, presented the Employee of the Year Award to Lucy Marinelli for her dedication and contributions to NHS’s mission.
Honoring Board Leadership
Finally, Oliver Gaffney and Jesse Phillips honored Leslie Radcliffe and Carol Heller as they stepped down from their roles as Board President and Vice President, respectively. NHS also expressed deep gratitude to Dr. Lou Hart and Glenn Davis for their years of service and leadership on the Board.
Looking Ahead
Our 46th Annual Impact Celebration was a great reflection of the power of community. Together, we celebrated our shared accomplishments and renewed our commitment to building homes, growing neighborhoods, and strengthening the fabric of New Haven.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening. Here’s to continuing the work together!
Thank you to our sponsors who made this event possible: Wells Fargo; Webster Bank; Ascend Bank; American Eagle Financial Credit Union; Connecticut Housing Finance Authority; New Haven Bank; North Haven Sewer Company; Partnership For Strong Communities; Yale New Haven Health; Yale University Office of New Haven Affairs; Julie Thalen; and New Alliance Foundation.
