Brooklyn Nonprofits and Charities

Working with the Katal center provided me with an experience that will stick with me for years to come. From the people we met through our canvassing efforts to the people in the office, I learned many valuable things. Mainly, I learned the importance of people. Building a community and bringing people together to fight for a just cause is the crux of what Katal does. They meet people where they are at and ensure they are heard every step of the way. It is clear to see that the people at Katal are very passionate about what they do. They believe in the rights, dignity, and respect of everyone, and they use that baseline to lead their reform efforts. I know the relationships and values I developed here will continue to inform every decision I make!

I first learned about the Sato project their first year of official operation from a volunteer I had met while working at a vet’s office. Fast forward to last July when I had lost 2 dogs, and my husband and I were ready to open our home and hearts to another. We found our Sato, Sidney after seeing a Facebook post of the flight she had been on and just celebrated her 1st gotcha day. The work this rescue does is nothing short of remarkable. The TNR work they’ve done on dead dog beach and within the community, the beautiful sanctuary they are building, securing flights for Satos to come to the mainland but also taking the time and compassion to help dogs who already have families, but weren’t able to fly with them either to or from PR. The Sato Project is an exceptional group of people and we are so thankful for them!

I sought domestic violence-related counseling through this organization and felt my concerns were repeatedly dismissed rather than addressed. When I raised concerns about therapist Mendel Cunin's conduct, I was told I was misperceiving events, and Mendel stated that I had a "pattern" of raising concerns. I escalated my concerns to Susan Hollander, Director of Mental Health Clinics, and Yehoshua Fleisher, Clinical Director, but did not feel my concerns were meaningfully addressed. Approximately six months into treatment, Mendel acknowledged that he did not have experience working with domestic violence cases. I also raised concerns regarding insurance billing involving multiple family members. After filing my complaint, I was informed that Mendel could no longer be my therapist and my appointments were canceled. Given the timing, I perceived this as retaliatory. I found the experience invalidating and concerning, particularly in the context of DV counseling, and encourage staying away.

I sought domestic violence-related counseling through this organization and felt my concerns were repeatedly dismissed rather than addressed. When I raised concerns about therapist Mendel Cunin's conduct, I was told I was misperceiving events, and Mendel stated that I had a "pattern" of raising concerns. I escalated my concerns to Susan Hollander, Director of Mental Health Clinics, and Yehoshua Fleisher, Clinical Director, but did not feel my concerns were meaningfully addressed. Approximately six months into treatment, Mendel acknowledged that he did not have experience working with domestic violence cases. I also raised concerns regarding insurance billing involving multiple family members. After filing my complaint, I was informed that Mendel could no longer be my therapist and my appointments were canceled. Given the timing, I perceived this as retaliatory. I found the experience invalidating and concerning, particularly in the context of DV counseling, and encourage staying away.

This foundation is unprofessional and the worst I've ever came across. They use people's VULNERABILITIES & trust for their own image and make it less about taking more action when it comes to victims of online abuse. The founder is rude, unprofessional and by looking at some of the posts where she's been exposed multiple times by other victims of cyberbullying, it seems as if she might be encouraging the abuse. Something has to be done about obsessive online stalking and harassment. Instead of speaking highly on change.. Show it! The founder Mariska hargitays actions were the complete opposite of what you people are suppose to be standing for. You're either on the victims side or are you on the side of the predators ? I'm legit confused by this organization and you people seriously need a lawsuit against you because so many victims online should not have to complain that many times to you about taking action when it comes to online stalking and abuse. You people are not for victims

Volunteering at AMA for the past few months has given me so much warmth and healed a part of my soul. To be able to see first hand how dedicated the team is to each and every rescue is truly a blessing. Our rescues are loved and treated like family, from choosing their names, to picking out their winter coats and favorite boots, and memorizing their favorite toys. This is such a wonderful community of humans that show up for these Angels, transforming their pain into newfound hope and bright futures. It is the best kind of heartbreak when I see a friend being adopted and leaving for their forever home. Thank you AMA for your unwavering strength and resilience!

I’ve seen firsthand the impact that Linden Fund USA and LFU Guyana have on our community. Through their programs, young people are given real opportunities to grow—not just academically, but as leaders and professionals. Scholarships, internships, and mentorship programs have opened doors that many of us never thought possible. They don’t just focus on youth; seniors in our community also benefit from spaces and activities that bring us together, help us stay active, and keep us connected. What I appreciate most is that LFU doesn’t just provide temporary support—they empower people with skills, confidence, and opportunities that last a lifetime. Their work truly strengthens our community, and I’m proud to see the difference they make every day.

"Our family—Mendel, Basha, and our son Moshe—just returned from an incredible stay at the Life Shine house in Key West, and we are so grateful. My wife, Basha, has CF, and the salt air and peaceful environment did wonders for her lung health. The Child Life Society went above and beyond by even covering our travel costs, making this stress-free for us. Thank you for providing such a life-changing resource for the CF community!"

Bais Chana is the best online school/community in the world with the best teachers I have ever had the privilege of learning with. All Bais Chana teachers are the most knowledgeable, positive and giving teachers of Torah and Chassidus. I stop my work every day at 2pm EST to attend the daily zoom classes with Itty Kay and a beautiful community of women from around the world. It is the most educational and inspirational part of my day. The weekly Chassidus classes at 10:15am EST on Sundays taught by phenomenal Rebbetzins of Chabad is the best start of the week if you are looking for strength and inspiration and deep Torah insights. And if you are interested in learning Tanya, there is no one like Rabbi Kaufmann. Only half an hour a week on Tuesdays at 2:45pm EST opens up a whole new world of the intimate part of Torah. Bais Chana is the biggest Blessing for all Jewish women, I sincerely hope that more women discover this gold for the soul.

Definitely a scam. Lots of excuses, no call backs when promised, and offering lots of things in return for attending poor services. Scam. Also my "therapist" Feiga Weinstock told me the person I was literally there for help about "just wanted to have sex with me because that's how all men are." When I told the director, he gave me advice that it's important to learn to work with many different people and not hide from your problems. He then told her to apologize apparently and she said "I'm sorry. The director told me to apologize." Everyone here is both incompetant and not caring. They also assigned me a "peer" with no skills whatsoever that I never asked for and some type of "nurse" to "monitor" me. They won't stop calling me. Insurance fraud 101.

I am so impressed with the many things TEAL does to help women (their families and friends) who are dealing with ovarian cancer, as well as, raising awareness and funding research. Their staff and volunteers are genuinely caring and their events are inspirational. I have found that starting my Wednesday mornings with a meditation workshop offered by TEAL has been so beneficial. It has taught me tools to use when I am feeling stressed or just need to take a moment for myself and regroup. TEAL truly is AMAZING!

Volunteering with Seeds in the Middle has been one of the most meaningful and uplifting experiences I’ve had. This organization does incredible work empowering Brooklyn youth and communities through healthy food access, sports, education, and creative programs. You can feel the impact immediately. What stands out most is how hands-on, community-centered, and genuinely caring the team is. Every project is rooted in listening to local families, supporting young leaders, and making real change—from running fresh farm stands to organizing sports leagues to bringing nutrition and gardening into schools. As a volunteer, I always felt welcomed and valued. The team gives you real opportunities to contribute, learn, and see your work make a difference. Whether I was helping with outreach, supporting events, or assisting with fundraising and digital projects, I could see how even small efforts help strengthen the larger mission.

My experience as a donor with the Shirley Chisholm Cultural Institute has been enlightening. I've learned valuable information about social justice and civil rights. The institute’s innovative programs are great because they build strong interactions with the community. I appreciate how the SCCI helps to keep Congresswoman Chisholm’s legacy alive as an inspiration for future generations. I think it's important to support and donate to this organization that is making a difference in the interest of a greater good.

Pilots to the Rescue is a top notch organization that does so much to rescue animals in danger of being euthanized (due to shelter overcrowding). PTTR flies the animals to other facilities in the country where they have a chance to find a home. PTTR believes no animal should be killed just because it doesn't have a home. Top Dog Michael Schneider and the other volunteer members are passionate about their mission. For these reasons, I heartily support and recommend this wonderful charity!

PLEASE READ. Not a real organization just a front to receive public funding and milk the system and unsuspecting people. A wolf in sheep's clothing. A letter I was forced to send to them (no response in approximately 10 days). <br> <br>Dear Executive Director, <br> <br>I am writing to formally express serious concerns regarding the care I received at your clinic, specifically during my time with Shaina Bryski, a therapist at your 4111 18th Avenue, Brooklyn location. I came to Pesach Tikvah seeking spiritually integrated, culturally competent support. Instead, my experience was confusing, invalidating, and ultimately harmful. <br> <br>Concerns: <br> <br>Blurring of Professional Boundaries: <br>From the beginning, Shaina Bryski engaged with me in ways that felt inappropriate for a therapeutic relationship. She laughed with coworkers loudly, referred to them as friends, and spoke to me as if we were also friends—saying she cared about me and would always be there. This blurred the essential boundaries required for effective therapy and made it difficult for me to trust the process. <br> <br>Inconsistent Presence and Communication: <br>Shaina gave mixed signals throughout treatment—alternating between appearing engaged and being emotionally vague or distant. She would say things like “I’m here,” depending on whether she believed my experience was valid or, as she ultimately decided six months into treatment, “just trauma.” This was particularly distressing because I had made it clear that I was in an emergency situation and believed we were working toward resolution of a real and urgent matter—not something to be dismissed or reclassified mid-process. Her inconsistency was deeply destabilizing in a time of great vulnerability. <br> <br>Use of Phone During Sessions: <br>Throughout our sessions, Shaina frequently used her phone and appeared to take outside communications. This behavior was distracting, unprofessional, and contributed to the feeling that my concerns were not being treated with the seriousness they deserved. <br> <br>Failure to Consult or Escalate Despite Obvious Issues: <br>Despite my repeated emphasis on the urgency of my situation and clear signs of distress, there is no indication that Shaina consulted with colleagues or supervisors. This lack of action significantly delayed appropriate intervention and suggests a lack of accountability or clinical support on her part. <br> <br>Contradictory Assessment Over Time: <br>In our first session, Shaina validated my experience and clearly stated that I was not just experiencing trauma and that I was not mentally ill—after initially beginning to document me using labels such as “multiple parts” and “trauma.” Six months later, she reversed course, stating it was just trauma. This contradiction undermined my trust in her judgment and felt like a significant betrayal of the therapeutic relationship, especially considering the time lost as a result. <br> <br>Dismissal of Spiritual Concerns: <br>Although I requested a therapist who could integrate and respect my spiritual worldview, my spiritual experiences were repeatedly dismissed as trauma-related symptoms. At one point, Shaina said, “I don’t know if I’ll die tomorrow”—a statement I found deeply disturbing, especially in light of my attempt to find strength, grounding, and hope through Judaism. Her approach was not only invalidating but actively harmful to the spiritual healing I was seeking. <br> <br>Avoidance of Necessary Communication and Crisis Boundaries: <br>In our final session, after six months of stalled progress, Shaina admitted that she avoided critical conversations because she “didn’t want to upset me.” This avoidance left major gaps in our work and ultimately prevented any real resolution. Moreover, I was informed that I could not text her during emergencies because “that’s not what therapy is.” This effectively left me with no support during crucial moments when I needed immediate guidance or intervention.

Low accountability culture. Operations are driven by the personal whims of the director rather than transparent or consistent policy. HR engagement is minimal, with little to no oversight or advocacy for staff. Questionable and potentially deceptive labor practices raise serious concerns. Please reconsider doing business with this organization.

Brooklyn Queens Land Trust became an accredited land trust February 2025, a status that can be renewed every five years. Accreditation means Brooklyn Queens Land Trust meets national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Brooklyn Queens Land Trust demonstrated to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission its commitment to excellence. Accredited land trusts meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. These land trusts demonstrate the commitment to excellence by adopting Land Trust Standards and Practices, the ethical and technical guidelines for the responsible operation of a land trust, and meeting the accreditation requirements drawn from them. To learn more about land trust accreditation and the current accreditation status of Brooklyn Queens Land Trust, visit http//www.landtrustaccreditation.org/about.

Greetings everyone<br>Im grateful to be able to share through this plat form. I was harassed and gang stalked in many ways in the street online to the point I almost lost my life. It was a horrible situation and still I continue going through the same situation filed police reports and nothing was done to protect me or my children. I lost everything to the point ending in a shelter in New York lost my daughters almost losing my self. I'm trying to get my life together it's not easy its been 6 years. Went to many lawyers and did not get the legal help I was discourage by many non profits never got the help we needed currently in a shelter.

<br><br>**Subject:** Concerns Regarding the Oversight and Operations of Shelter Services <br><br>As a taxpayer and a previous client, I would like to express my concerns regarding the management and oversight of shelters within residential neighborhoods. While I, along with the community at large, do not object to the placement of shelters or the awarding of service contracts to nonprofit organizations, my concern lies in the quality and professionalism of the specific service providers tasked with supporting individuals in crisis. <br><br>In particular, I am deeply troubled by the operations of one provider, which I believe is failing to meet the necessary standards of care and professionalism. Below are the key issues observed: <br><br>1. **Staff Conduct and Professionalism** <br> - The staff, including the assistant director, Mr. Caldwell, case managers, and residential aides, demonstrate unprofessional behavior. <br> - Reports suggest that some staff members are under the influence of marijuana or other substances while on duty and have been seen sharing drugs with clients. <br><br>2. **Facility Conditions** <br> - The facility is substandard, with mold and mildew visibly growing on shower curtains and walls. <br> - Bathrooms are unhygienic, often with feces and urine left uncleaned on toilet seats. <br><br>3. **Meal Services** <br> - Meals are not prepared or served according to health and hygiene standards, nor in compliance with food safety guidelines. <br><br>4. **Language and Communication** <br> - Staff frequently use unprofessional and inappropriate language, akin to street slang, which is demeaning and undermines the goal of fostering a supportive environment. <br><br>5. **Impact on Clients** <br> - The lack of professionalism and advocacy by staff contributes to delays in housing programs and services. <br> - Clients often fail to transition to stable living conditions because opportunities are poorly communicated or not presented in a productive manner. <br><br>Additionally, this organization appears to exploit its position as an advocate for men of color. It is disheartening that the African-American Planning Commission, which should champion the well-being of individuals in crisis, is instead affiliated with a provider that drains resources and undermines the effectiveness of shelters that have a proven track record of success. <br><br>I will continue to document and share reviews, along with photographic evidence, to bring public attention to the unacceptable conditions under which clients are living. It is critical that this provider is held accountable for its shortcomings and that resources are redirected to organizations that genuinely serve the needs of the community with integrity and professionalism. <br>

I attented thier summit and I was blown away by the energy in the room. One of the best events i've ever been too.

I have traveled with Global Autism since 2019 to Ecuador, Kenya, and India. The work that the organization allows you be apart of is not only life changing for the people we serve, it is life changing for you. I look forward to traveling with them in 2025.

Working with the World Roma Federation (WRF) has been a truly rewarding experience. As the Outreach Coordinator, I’ve had the opportunity to be deeply involved in initiatives that highlight and support the Roma community's heritage and advocate for its recognition on an international stage. My role includes connecting with potential sponsors, building partnerships with aligned organisations, and engaging with community stakeholders, all with the goal of advancing unity and social justice for the Roma people.<br><br>One of the most fulfilling aspects has been collaborating with passionate team members and leaders who share a commitment to amplifying the voice of the Roma community. <br><br>Being part of WRF is not just about advocacy; it’s about understanding and honouring the Roma heritage while pushing for the global unity, recognition, and equity that all communities deserve.

Apna Brooklyn Community Centre - Bath Avenue Workshop (21st October 2024)<br><br>On 21st October 2024, I attended a workshop at Apna Brooklyn Community Centre on Bath Avenue, along with my family. It was my first time visiting the center, and the experience was truly wonderful.<br><br>From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the entire team. I had the pleasure of meeting the Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Erm Hanif, who was very kind and approachable. Her leadership truly reflects in the atmosphere of the community center.<br><br>The entire staff was incredibly helpful and professional. A special mention goes to Mr. Hanif, Mr. Faisal, and Noor, who were extremely supportive throughout the workshop. Their friendly approach made us feel comfortable and appreciated. The dedication and commitment of the staff toward serving the community are clearly visible in every interaction.<br><br>The workshop was well-organized, informative, and beneficial for everyone who attended. I left with a great sense of gratitude for the positive environment the center provides for families and individuals in Brooklyn.<br><br>I wholeheartedly appreciate the efforts of everyone at Apna Brooklyn Community Centre, and I look forward to attending more events in the future. This center is a true asset to our community!<br><br><br>SYED ASIF ALI SHAH<br>

I have volunteered, fostered and adopted from Badass Animal Rescue and they are truly something special. When they commit to a dog, they COMMIT to that dog. They make sure he/she gets the training, the medical care, and the support needed while in their care. They do not discriminate by breed, size or age - this means sometimes taking dogs that other rescues leave behind. And they work with adopters to help make sure that everyone is set up for success after adoption. All 3 of my dogs were adopted from Badass. One was really fearful initially but turned into a friendly social boy with just a few months care. Another was a young puppy with a serious injury to her leg that almost required amputation. And the third was a senior with a handful of medical needs that required attention. Today all three are thriving because Badass got them the care and attention they needed. I would recommend Badass to anyone looking to adopt, foster or volunteer!

Girlthrive helped me understand that I had to let go of some things in order to grow, and now, this Girl Thrives!!! Dr. Debbie Chambers