The Citymeals Blog

Describe what you do at Citymeals.

As part of the Marketing & Communications Department, I oversee our fundraising program, emails and website.

What surprised you about working for Citymeals?

Everyone is incredibly passionate. Before Citymeals, I worked on a lot of campaigns and I used to think no one could be more zealous than people trying to win at the ballot box. That was a misconception. The people who work here are incredibly dedicated and they work tirelessly to ensure we have an impact – and change lives – every single day.

What do you enjoy about working with older New Yorkers?

I love the memories our meal recipients share. Whether it’s Mary sharing memories of her mother’s Polish food or James showing me a photograph of an old diner where the Javits Center now stands – just getting to hear their stories is a joy.

Are there older people that have played an important role in your life?

My paternal grandfather, Zebe, taught me how to golf. Mind you, I am terrible at it. But he always cared more about spending time together than whether I sliced every ball into the woods. Despite a long struggle with dementia, there were always beautiful glimmers of the kind, gracious family man I loved and admired.

And my maternal grandmother, Phyllis, was an incredible influence. I think about her life sometimes – growing up at the peak of the Depression, raising four kids, working a full-time job, devoting herself to family and community – and I’m always amazed. She was just a reserved, but incredibly strong woman who never seemed put down by the hardships she faced. That ability to keep going is something I try to carry with me. Later on in her life, she passed on this piece of wisdom: “Always make time for a little happy hour. Some wine, cheese and crackers go a long way.” So I try to do that when I can.

What’s your favorite food? 

There is nothing better than pizza – but it has to be homemade! I always have dough on hand so I can roll it out when I get home from work and top with pesto (again, homemade) and ricotta. When it’s done, I add arugula and basil. So good!

Who do you most enjoy sharing a meal with?

My partner, Colin. As I write this, I’m thinking about the ribeye with grilled radicchio I’ll make for our anniversary tonight. Anniversary or just a plain old Wednesday night, there’s nothing more satisfying for me than sharing a meal with loved ones.