DYCD Discusses Neighborhood Advisory Boards Impact on Poverty Alleviation in Brooklyn

In the heart of Brooklyn, a gathering of community leaders and residents took place on June 3, 2025, as the Brooklyn Borough Board convened to discuss vital initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and enhancing community engagement. Elizabeth Adedeji, a borough manager with the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), led the meeting alongside her senior director, Anita Antonetti, emphasizing the department's mission to empower local communities through targeted programs.

Adedeji outlined the historical context of the DYCD, tracing its roots back to President Johnson's 1964 War on Poverty. This initiative aimed to ensure that no American lived in poverty, a vision that continues to resonate today. The DYCD has evolved, now working through neighborhood advisory boards (NABs) that play a crucial role in identifying community needs and priorities. These boards consist of residents from designated Neighborhood Development Areas (NDAs), where at least 20% of the population lives below the federal poverty line.

The meeting highlighted the importance of community involvement, with Adedeji urging attendees to encourage participation in the upcoming community needs assessment. This assessment, conducted every three years, is essential for determining the programs and services that will best serve the community. The feedback gathered will directly influence funding and program priorities, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed.

As the discussion progressed, board members expressed their commitment to fostering youth involvement in civic activities. Chairperson Camacho emphasized the importance of engaging young people, encouraging them to understand the processes that lead to community development. This sentiment was echoed by other members, who recognized the value of instilling a sense of responsibility and participation in the next generation.

The meeting also served as a platform for the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to present its initiatives. Senior Vice President Julianne Herskowitz introduced her team and outlined the EDC's role in supporting economic growth and development in Brooklyn. The collaboration between the DYCD and EDC underscores a holistic approach to community enhancement, addressing both social and economic challenges.

As the evening drew to a close, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose. The discussions not only highlighted the ongoing efforts to combat poverty but also reinforced the importance of community engagement in shaping the future of Brooklyn. With the next community needs assessment on the horizon, residents are encouraged to voice their needs and priorities, ensuring that their voices are heard in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.