Black History Month, celebrated every February, is a time to reflect upon the tenacity and perseverance of Black people, and to highlight the many contributions of the Black community.
Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island (JCCGCI) is proud to uplift Black voices and experiences, which we believe are essential to all conversations, and particularly critical in the work that we do. 34% of our staff are Black, many of whom hold leadership roles in the organization.
In honor of Black History Month, we are highlighting some of JCCGCI’s Black leaders who serve as Program Directors for various JCCGCI initiatives and who are helping to change the world and shape the future of our city:
Derick Latif Scott is the Founding Director of JCCGCI’s widely acclaimed “Operation H.O.O.D.” Cure Violence program. Derick has years of experience working in the Cure Violence space, rising to leadership roles. Derick is well known for how he inspires the people around him to be the best versions of themselves.
Samantha Ross is the Director of JCCGCI’s “Urban Neighborhood Services” multi-service center for Coney Island residents. Samantha manages a team offering a vast array of services to clients that are responsive to community needs. Samantha is also known as “Community Sam”, a moniker she acquired because of her reputation of being a champion for her community.
Amonni S. Taylor-Chavis is the Director JCCGCI’s Department of Probation funded “Works Plus” Job Readiness Program in Coney Island. In addition, Amonni conducts lifesaving coaching and wellness facilitation for victims of family violence. In particular, Amonni is well known for her advocacy on behalf of women and young people.
Diane Martinez-Maben is the Director of JCCGCI’s Crisis Management/Conflict Mediation Program (with sites in several local public schools), though she wears many hats at JCCGCI. Diane is passionate about helping children, devoting much of her life to this endeavor. Diane is well known for her generosity, nurturing nature, – and her fabulous sense of style!
Felicia Lee is the Director of JCCGCI’s Extended School Day/School Violence Prevention Program at PS 288 in Coney Island. Felicia has decades of experience supporting youth inside and outside of the classroom. Felicia is well known for her commitment to education, and her appreciation for the arts.
LaToya Nunn is the Director of JCCGCI’s Connections to Care: Building Resilience in Youth program. Focusing on mental health care for young adults, LaToya is committed to combating the stigma associated with mental health treatment. LaToya is well known for her warm smile and friendly demeanor, and her strong ability to bring together unlikely allies for the sake of the greater goal.
Isalia Lebron is the Director of JCCGCI’s Extended School Day/School Violence Prevention Program at Rachel Carson High School in Coney Island. Isalia is passionate about improving the lives and opportunities of Coney Island youth. She is well known for her innovation and passion for the families with whom she works.