The Board of Directors at West Harlem Development Corporation (WHDC) has voted to move forward in a new direction to fulfill its mission under the Community Benefits Agreement. Dr. Kofi Boateng, the longtime executive director, has separated from the organization. The board thanks him and is grateful for his eight years of service to the community. Former WHDC Board Treasurer, Zead Ramadan has been appointed and graciously accepted the role of interim executive director. Ramadan is a former Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone board member and has served as a Community Board Chair.
Our work continues. The board is dedicated to continuing WHDC's signature programs such as ARISE! youth development, Summer Senior Employment Program (SSEP), and the vital services offered at our West Harlem Skills Training Center. The commitment to organizational funding for Manhattan Community Board 9 (CB9) grantees (including our recent Special COVID-19 Impact Grants) remains paramount to the goals of the WHDC. Additionally, viable affordable housing preservation and development is a priority and the board seeks and welcomes input from the community. In the future, the board is looking to new exciting and challenging collaborations. We are thrilled to propose district-wide initiatives such as a dedicated umbrella arts organization for and a coalition for seniors.
