Categories: Network Events
11.24.2025
On November 17th, the Network hosted its 2025 Annual Awards Gala. Members and partners across the entire supportive housing sector joined to celebrate our incredible community, to honor Unsung Heroes and Outstanding Neighbors of the Year, and to network.
Network Board Chair Brenda Rosen kicked off the program welcoming everyone and acknowledging the support of the attendees in the room, “In this era of uncertainty -- when threats to supportive housing seem more overwhelming than ever – we are more determined than ever. This wonderful turnout demonstrates that our supporters’ reliable presence and unwavering commitment to advocacy are vital and fundamental to solving New York’s homelessness crisis.” She then gave a warm welcome to the Network’s Executive Director, Pascale Leone.
Pascale thanked sponsors, the Network’s fundraising committee, Network staff and board members, public leaders and partners, and the supportive housing community and for making the night possible with a record number of 700+ attendees saying, “This community has proven, time and time again, that when we fight, we win. Let’s carry that energy forward and secure the big wins our tenants, our staff, and our state deserve in 2026.”
Pascale then awarded the evening’s honorees, two Outstanding Tenants of the Year: Helen Taylor and James Emmick.
At the Fortune Society, Helen is known for her leadership, advocacy for supportive housing residents everywhere and her impact on fellow tenants. She is also known as ‘Mama Bear’of Castle Gardens, and embodies ‘compassion, resilience, and community.’ Learn more about Helen and watch her video here.
At Spiritus Christi Prison Outreach, James was “determined to start over after more than three decades in prison” and can be found engaging with residents by “leading meditation sessions.” James is known for his work ethic, resilience, humility and dedication to recovery and community. Learn more about James and watch his video here.
Pascale then honored several Unsung Heroes, public servants who have spent their careers strengthening supportive housing and said, “These are the folks who have never asked for recognition, but whose work has reshaped, expanded, and preserved supportive housing across New York and changed the lives of thousands of New Yorkers in the process.”
The Unsung Hero honorees were Dana Greenberg, Director of Bureau of Housing and Support Services at NYS Office of Temporary Disability Assistance; Kim Darga, Deputy Commissioner for Development, NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development; Julie Duncan, Director, Bureau of Housing Development and Support, NYS Office of Mental Health; Rick Umholtz, Deputy Commissioner of Housing and Refugee Services, NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance; Brett Hebner, Vice President of Multifamily Finance and Development, NYS Homes and Community Renewal; Jamie Neckles, Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Mental Health, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene; and Craig Retchless, Deputy Commissioner, NYC Human Resources Administration’s Office of Supportive Housing and Specialized Services.
Throughout of the evening, a slideshow showcased supportive housing events, new supportive housing residence groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings, sponsors, and nominated Neighbors of the Year. See the slideshow here.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, our fundraising committee and our sponsors, who made the event a success and our continued work possible. Learn more on our website here. View the gala journal here. View photos from the event here.