The Next Generation of Changemakers: Westhab’s Junior Board Leads the Way

This September, the Westhab Junior Board hosted its annual NYC fundraiser, A Toast to Home, at City Vineyard. Over 100 partners and friends gathered along the Hudson River to raise a glass—and over $78,000—to support housing and programming for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Westhab was founded more than 40 years ago with a mission to develop housing and deliver services that create opportunities for the most vulnerable members of our community. Today, Westhab is the largest nonprofit provider of affordable and supportive housing in Westchester, with a rapidly growing footprint in New York City.

The Junior Board represents the next generation of changemakers carrying this mission forward. Made up of passionate young professionals, the group is using its energy, networks, and creativity to address one of the most urgent issues facing our cities: homelessness and housing insecurity.

At A Toast to Home, Junior Board members Nick Celestin and Allie Ladley shared why they’ve chosen to get involved. Nick reminded guests that Westhab’s mission is about more than housing:

“That’s why the Junior Board supports Westhab so passionately. We believe in their comprehensive approach: housing, supportive services, workforce development, and community building. It’s not just addressing homelessness; it’s ending it by tackling the root causes and building a real foundation for the future.”

Allie reflected on a recent volunteer event that underscored the importance of this work:

“For me, the impact we can have was apparent at our most recent Spring Spectacular at the Hudson Family Residence. We had the chance to spend time with kids living there—face painting, singing and dancing, playing games, and arts and crafts. Hearing the laughter, seeing the joy on the kids’ faces, and watching their parents light up as they saw their children having fun was unforgettable. That day reminded me that Westhab’s housing-first approach doesn’t just provide a roof—it provides stability, dignity, and opportunity for people and families to rebuild their lives.”

These are not just inspiring words—they reflect the lived experience of Westhab residents and the growing impact of the Junior Board. In addition to this fundraiser, members have organized volunteer opportunities ranging from financial planning sessions to clothing drives to seasonal celebrations for families living in Westhab residences.

At Westhab, we believe lasting change happens when communities come together. The leadership of the Junior Board shows just how powerful the next generation can be in moving this mission forward.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who made A Toast to Home possible, especially our Gold Sponsor SD Builders, Silver Sponsors SKF Development and Valley Bank, and our Bronze Sponsors Aufgang Architects and Turf Office Furniture.

If you’re inspired by the Junior Board and want to learn more about getting involved, please reach out to Nicolette Kavana, Director of Development, at nicolette.kavana@westhab.org.

Cheers to the Junior Board and to all who believe in the power of young leaders to help end homelessness and strengthen our cities.