University Reaching a Resolution in Current Situation
In a reflective mood, Melissa Aase, the CEO of University Settlement, looks back on her journey in the field of social work and the lessons she's learned during disaster responses. Her commitment to social justice, community empowerment, and addressing systemic inequalities has been evident throughout her career.
A social work student in 1992, Aase joined University Settlement, the nation's first settlement house, likely drawn by its historic mission of social service and advocacy in New York City. Over the years, she has held various positions, from case manager to supervisor, executive director, and finally, CEO.
Under her leadership, University Settlement's mental health programs have grown by more than 700%. The organization's annual budget has also expanded significantly, rising from $25 million to $60 million. Aase's dedication to holistic and human-centered support is evident in these achievements, as she emphasises the importance of making a difference in people's lives.
Aase's experiences with disasters, such as 9/11 and Superstorm Sandy, have highlighted the disproportionate impacts on marginalised communities. She is keenly aware of the need to avoid duplicating efforts and to work strategically to ensure resources are going to the places where they're needed most. Collaboration with like-minded people and organisations is key to this approach.
Aase also reflects on the past experiences of University Settlement and peer organisations during the era of "Welfare Reform" in the 1990s. She notes that making it harder for people to access benefits is not an effective solution. Instead, she emphasises the importance of strategies that help neighbours keep their benefits while taking meaningful steps to move out of poverty, such as through education, health, housing stability, avoiding violence, and gaining access to work.
Aase's early experiences volunteering introduced her to the impact of poverty on her communities. This, combined with her motivation to respond positively to poverty and work according to principles of social justice, likely played a significant role in her decision to join University Settlement.
The organisation's team celebrates the strengths of the people who come to their programs, an approach that resonates with Aase's belief in the power of community empowerment. Her wildly creative supervisor and team at University Settlement were also instrumental in drawing her to the organisation.
Recently, Aase was named to City & State's third annual list of Nonprofit Trailblazers, a testament to her leadership and commitment to social change. As she looks to the future, Aase acknowledges that the current situation is a disaster, among the gravest they've seen. However, she remains optimistic, emphasising the need to be organised, strategic, and to work in coalition with others to ensure resources are going to the places where they're needed most.
Through her work at University Settlement, Melissa Aase continues to make a significant impact in neighbourhoods across Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, demonstrating that with organisation, collaboration, and a commitment to social justice, it is possible to create positive change.
- Melissa Aase, who has dedicated her career to social justice and community empowerment, has expanded University Settlement's health and wellness programs including mental health, which has seen an increase of more than 700%.
- In the realm of business and finance, Aase's leadership has boosted University Settlement's annual budget from $25 million to $60 million, demonstrating her ability to lead effectively and strategically.
- Recognizing the critical role of leadership and collaboration in addressing systemic inequalities, Aase emphasizes the significance of working with like-minded people and organizations to ensure resources are directed towards housing stability, health, and wellness for those in need.
