Community Resource Center

What Does Advocacy Look Like for CRC? Advocacy at CRC means amplifying the voices of our community, fighting for immigrant rights, and pushing for policies that create real change. Recently, we took action by joining a Lobby Day in Albany, where our team and community members met with lawmakers to advocate for crucial policies that support immigrant and worker rights. These moments are powerful—real stories, actual demands, and real impact. ?? Watch the video to see how CRC is making a difference in Albany! Together, we can drive change!

Podcast Episode #3 Recorded! ? Today, we recorded the third episode of our podcast series with Chief Sandra DiRuzza and Lt. P.J. Trujillo, discussing important topics around community-police relations, trust-building, and accessibility for all residents. Thank you to LMC Media for their partnership and for providing the space to hold these meaningful conversations. Stay tuned for the episode release!

?? WE’RE IN ALBANY RIGHT NOW! Today, we’re advocating for a $165M investment in immigration legal services and the passage of the Access to Representation Act (ARA) and BUILD Act to protect immigrant families. No one should face deportation alone—stand with us!

That’s a wrap on #SOMOSNY25! From March 7-9, leaders, advocates, and changemakers gathered in Albany for the SOMOS Inc. New York Conference: Justice in Action. It was an incredible weekend filled with powerful discussions, impactful panels, and a shared commitment to advancing equity in our communities. We’re proud that CRC was part of the conversation, contributing to a panel focused on meaningful change and empowerment for underserved communities. Events like these remind us that justice isn’t just an idea—it’s action. Thank you to everyone who participated and made this event unforgettable! Until next time.

We’re Almost Back Home! The wait is almost over—we’re so close to moving back to the Center! Yesterday, the Moving Committee met at CRC to finalize details for our big moving day and take a tour of the new space. We couldn’t be more excited to share a sneak peek with you! The Center is coming together beautifully, and we can’t wait to be back home, continuing our mission of serving and empowering our community. Stay tuned for details about our Grand Reopening—we can’t wait to welcome you back! ??

"In 2023, I emigrated to the United States alone, facing challenges with no home or support network. Through perseverance and the kindness of others, I found a job and began rebuilding my life. My English skills helped me adapt, but I knew I needed to improve further, so I enrolled in an Academic and Business English program at SUNY Westchester Community College. A key moment in my journey was deciding to earn my GED certificate, which is essential for my academic and professional goals. Despite the challenges of financial sacrifices and long walks to classes at The Community Resource Center and Southern Westchester BOCES, I remained committed to earning this qualification. The GED not only opened doors for further education but also became a symbol of my determination. Growing up in a poor, unstable town in Peru shaped my empathy and resilience, which I continue to apply in my volunteer work with CRC, supporting ESL classes and community events. Thanks to CRC, I received a laptop that enhanced my studies and allowed me to take additional certifications. In 2025, I plan to start the Paralegal program at SUNY Westchester Community College to become an immigration attorney to help others seeking new opportunities. My journey has required sacrifices but has taught me perseverance and discipline. I am grateful for my support and hope my story inspires others to pursue their dreams."~ Raquel

Meet Zuri, Our New Administrative Assistant! We’re excited to welcome Zuri to the CRC team! She studied Business Music with minors in Marketing, Communications, and Business at Manhattanville University—a perfect mix of creativity and strategy! Zuri is also a talented singer, and her warm smile will be the first thing to welcome you when you visit our office. We’re so happy to have her on board!

Safety First: Protecting Workers, Preventing Tragedies The tragic loss of Jose Vega in a preventable workplace accident should never happen again. Today, Alianza Laboral stood united to demand that OSHA 30 safety training be mandatory in Westchester County—because proper training saves lives! Alongside Don Bosco Workers Inc, United Community Center of Westchester INC., and our labor allies, we are calling for greater employer accountability and stronger protections for workers. New York City already requires 40 hours of safety training—it’s time for Westchester to step up! Every worker deserves to go home safe. We won’t stop fighting until workplace safety is a priority for all!

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated Legal and Case Management teams, specifically to our managing attorney, Bertha Rodriguez as well as our incredible volunteers, for hosting a successful Family Preparedness Assistance Workshop! These workshops are crucial in helping families create a safety plan in case a parent or guardian is detained or deported. By providing important documents and resources, we ensure that children have a trusted caregiver, vital information is easily accessible, and legal protections are in place for the family's well-being. Together, we are building a stronger, more prepared community.

New York for All: Protecting Immigrant Rights In this episode, we dive into the efforts to defend immigrant rights in New York and the importance of community involvement. We discuss key proposals like New York for All and Access to Representation, which aim to protect and empower our community. We also explore fundamental questions, such as how the lack of legal representation impacts deportation cases and how we can come together to face the current challenges. Join us in this conversation and learn how to make a difference together. Thank you to LMC Media for opening their doors and giving us the space to share these vital conversations. #makeadifference