The Resignation of ANHD's Executive Director Benjamin Dulchin

New York, NY - It is with a mixture of sadness and appreciation that we announce after 17 years of representing, supporting, and advocating for 80+ New York City grassroots and community development corporation members, Benjamin Dulchin is leaving ANHD as the Executive Director, effective November 15, 2019.

Benjamin’s strategic leadership will be missed, and we are grateful for all he has helped ANHD to achieve. During his tenure, ANHD has expanded in so many ways to become one of New York City’s premier policy, advocacy, and capacity-building organizations, supporting the work of ANHD’s member groups and their movement.  He tripled ANHD’s budget and staff; helped to win significant city-and-state-wide housing campaigns (421a, Mandatory Inclusionary Housing, and the Tenant Protection Act); and, expanded the breadth and depth of ANHD programs, including most notably our responsible banking and equitable economic development programs.

“Some of ANHD's best work was done during Benjamin's tenure. He helped member organizations from all parts of the City to communicate in one voice to policy makers, which ultimately led to successful outcomes for the community development movement. Our reputation is solid as a result of his leadership, and we are confident ANHD’s influence will continue to grow through the talented staff he leaves in place.” Walter Roberts, Board Chair of the ANHD Board of Directors & Executive Director, Hope Community Inc.

“ANHD, its members and the broader community development movement have benefited tremendously from Benjamin's leadership, talent and dedication for more than 15 years.  We are grateful for his work on behalf of our member organizations and communities. He is leaving a strong foundation for the Board to build upon as we look to the future."  Michelle de la Uz, Secretary of the ANHD Board of Directors & Executive Director, Fifth Avenue Committee.

"Benjamin's stewardship of ANHD over the last ten years has left the organization in a strong position for future growth under its next leader. ANHD is financially sound, and the Board is committed to working with all of our funders and the amazing staff of ANHD to ensure a seamless transition." Chris Cirillo, Treasurer of the ANHD Board of Directors & Executive Director Ascendant Neighborhood Development Corporation.

“While we are sad to see Benjamin leave, we are proud of the work ANHD has done under his leadership over the past 10 years. With a strong organizational foundation and deep member roots, I am confident that ANHD will continue to build community power to win affordable housing and thriving, equitable neighborhoods for years to come.” Scott Short, Member of the ANHD Board of Directors & Executive Director of RiseBoro Community Partnership.

We will miss his leadership advancing key campaigns, and we also wish him the best of luck in his new endeavor, returning to his organizer roots and follow his interest in banking and economic justice policy issues as the Director of the national Fed Up Campaign for the Center for Popular Democracy.

The Board’s Executive Transition Planning Committee is dedicated to having a smooth transition to assure the mission, vision, and values we all want be carried forward. Details on our process and the hiring of a new Executive Director will be shared shortly, however we hope you will join us in thanking Benjamin for his dedication to our movement.

The ANHD Executive Transition Planning Committee

Walter Roberts, Hope Community Inc.
Leah Archibald, Evergreen Exchange
Michelle de la Uz, Fifth Avenue Committee
Christopher Cirillo, Ascendant Neighborhood Development Corp.
Aron Kurlander, Greater Jamaica Development Corp.
Bernell Grier, IMPAACT Brooklyn
Brandon Kielbasa, Cooper Square Committee

Point of Contact

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly at board@anhd.org.