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SoHarlem first came into my life in 2011. Along with a small advisory group, including the late Edwin Finder, Molly Goodrich and Marvin Horton, we provided counsel as it operated with the Innovative Charitable Initiatives, Inc. as a fiscal sponsor. By 2015, based on ongoing discussions with Founder and CEO, Janet Rodriguez, we had determined that SoHarlem’s programs were viable and worthy of further development. It all happened during the great recession in a neighborhood where 27% of the population lived under the poverty line and the redevelopment of the Manhattanville Factory District provided a beacon of hope for many, we filed and received our tax-exempted status and I joined the Board as a Director. I decided to join the board because I could see there was a role for me to play at SoHarlem and make a real difference. Plus, I liked, admired and believed in Janet. The past twelve years have been both a challenge and a source of personal pride, being part of SoHarlem growth, always impressive with its capacity to serve our creative and local communities. A highlight, we figured out how to keep people working by making masks and gowns for our hospitals and community centers during the very early stages of the pandemic. At the same time, we came together as a board to create a Real Time Strategic Plan led by consultants who took a holistic approach that focused on building capacity, leadership and structure all key to securing a viable future. In 2020, I became the Chairwoman of the Board, guided by the notion that I could function from within the organization, working alongside Janet, and not from the outside in a purely advisory capacity. At this time I have decided to assume a different role at SoHarlem, as a Board Member Emeritus, given my recent relocation from New York City and various health challenges. Nonetheless, I am as determined as ever to remain a part of this dynamic, one-of-a-kind community which has now extended its reach and potential with the addition of two new Board members, Barbara Lee Morgan and Adrienne Jones. It’s not easy these days for nonprofits to recruit volunteer leadership and I’ve no doubt Adrienne and Barbara’s skills, experiences and backgrounds will make a huge difference for our programming at SoHarlem. I welcome and thank them for taking this leap of faith and hope their network and circles will help advance our mission. In particular, I encourage everyone on the Board to continue to utilize and update our Strategic Plan so it remains a “real” road map, guiding our many efforts to make a real difference in our community. Jessica S. Tomb Board Member Emeritus
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