Moving NYC Forward

January : Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is the idea that a company should play a positive role in the community and consider the environmental and social impact of business decisions. It is closely linked to sustainability − creating economic, social, and environmental value.

In recent years, accelerated by the pandemic, employees have played a large role in emphasizing the importance of CSR. Congratulations to Jesse Aman, Capalino and Felix Garcia, Kasirer for being named ABNY YP January Spotlights of the Month! Both Jesse and Felix embody corporate social responsibility and are working to make their organizations more socially aware.

Jesse Aman

Senior Associate, Legislative & Political Affairs
Capalino
How did you get to where you are today?

I was incredibly fortunate to have been raised by a tribe of resilient immigrant parents, aunts, uncles, and abuelito (grandfather). My maternal abuelito had the courage to venture to NYC in the late 60s, was offered a job as an upholsterer by a Jewish family-owned business in the Garment District – and my family’s been here ever since. I’m a proud product of the NYC public school system, which granted me an unparalleled education and culturally diverse upbringing. I was granted many opportunities I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to accept without the help and support of the Harlem Children’s Zone and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. I’ve been able to get this far because of all the friends, mentors, professors, and colleagues along the journey who have been a wavering support system transcending global borders. I stand on the shoulders of humble yet fearless giants.

What are you most proud of?

My community! As the first-born, first-generation Latina daughter/sister/cousin/granddaughter, I’ve unknowingly become a pillar of inspiration for all those that have come after me, which is why I strongly believe in the power of paying it forward for others.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?

Your identity is your power – use it for good and you’ll be a force to be reckoned with.

When did you realize that you are a New Yorker?

While I was living in Erfurt, a small city in Eastern Germany as a U.S. Department of State Fellow and was asked why I couldn’t bear the arctic cold without Vitamin D pills, I was quickly humbled and felt a wave of gratitude come over me for having been born and raised with cold yet Sunny NYC winters.

Felix Garcia

Legislative Associate
Kasirer
How did you get to where you are today?

I took the long way. I have worked in the nonprofit, public, and now private sectors respectively. Throughout all of my experiences, entering a space with a positive attitude and mutual respect has helped tremendously.

What are you most proud of?

Smaller interactions where I can help someone in need are more rewarding. Along those lines, being able to help communities in the Bronx (shoutout to Bronx Young Dems) that I grew up in has been very fulfilling.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?

Talk to strangers! I encourage anyone interested in this field to start attending some events and meeting some people.

When did you realize that you are a New Yorker?

Most that know me know that I am a big supporter of the Bronx. It was not until I left for SUNY Albany that I realized how Bronx I truly was. Going to a large school was my first time really being exposed to people outside of my immediate circle and community. Meeting people from other parts of the state and country who call soda “pop” really put it all into perspective.

© 2023 Association for a Better New York All rights reserved. Site By Webline