Lower East Side Community Hero

Nominated by Aura Olavarria

Jasmine Corchado is the new director of the Henry Street Settlement, Good Companions Older Adult Center. Jasmine is no stranger to Henry Street; a lifelong resident of Vladeck Houses, she first encountered the agency as a Summer Youth Employment Program participant. She later joined the team as an administrative assistant with the Naturally Occurring Retirement Community and within a year was promoted to caseworker, serving for 11 years. “Seniors are often misunderstood. They have a lot to offer and they have experience to share.”

Through the years she has continued advocating for seniors within the Vladeck Houses where she also cares for her 74-year-old mother and uncle. The Senior Center reopened in June 2021 for in-person services after having gone remote during the pandemic. Jasmine says she has seen a lot of changes in the community since COVID hit, and some seniors are feeling isolated. “[That’s why] the center is important,” she says. “It is a safe place to interact, share what they’re going through, and have a support system.” Jasmine takes her time collecting ideas and feedback to strengthen the Senior Center, as a result this dedicated process of engagement has increased numbers dramatically. I am grateful to latinas paving a path like Jasmine for the future generation of young leaders in the community.”