Why Mariya Cares
CFH Board Member Mariya Kamenetskaya, discusses why she joined the board and why we should all support solutions to homelessness.
Mariya Kamenetskaya, LMSW, joined the Care For the Homeless Board of Directors in the Fall of 2019. She is a Clinical Supervisor at Beacon Health Options.
Recently, we spoke with Mariya about why she joined the board and why it’s important to support solutions to homelessness.
Q: How did you hear/learn about CFH?
A: After working in the nonprofit field for over 14 years, for the first time I found myself working in a large, for-profit organization. As much as I enjoyed growing and learning the new environment, I wanted to remain active in the nonprofit sphere. A close friend and mentor introduced me to the idea of joining a Board of Directors. Once I learned the mission of CFH, my decision to become a Board Member was an easy one to make.
Q: Why did you choose CFH to receive your support?
A: As someone who has worked on the front lines with NYC’s transit homeless population, I see and recognize the health disparities that exist for people who are homeless. I wished to guide and support an organization whose mission is to improve health and well-being for people experiencing homelessness.
I believe what sets CFH apart from other organizations are their leaders and front-line staff. They stand behind the mission, and their passion and compassion are visible in daily tasks.
Q: Why do you care?
A: Housing is a basic right. Adequate and affordable housing is the key to solving homelessness. Funding, development, and maintenance of affordable housing are all essential to providing stable environment to homeless individuals.
More About Mariya:
Prior to her current role, Mariya served as Program Director at Weston United Community Renewal. In addition, her work at BRC Transit Homeless Outreach and the Diocese of Joliet illustrate her extensive experience with homeless individuals experiencing substance use disorder, co-occurring disorders, and mental illness as well as those with criminal histories.
Mariya received her bachelorโs degree from Brooklyn College and her masterโs from Long Island University.
We are extraordinarily thankful for Mariyaโs commitment to lifting up homeless New Yorkers. If you would like to join her in support of creating solutions to homelessness, please consider making a gift of any amount today!
