Cypress Celebrates: Stronger Together
Thank you for your support
Thank you for making 2025 Cypress Celebrates: Stronger Together with UCC such a powerful and joy-filled evening.
If you haven’t had a chance yet, or feel inspired to give again, we invite you to make a donation today. Every gift brings us closer to a stronger, more equitable future for our community.
Thank you for showing up, giving back, and standing with us. Let’s keep the momentum going, together.
Meet the Honorees
A Special Thank You to Citi Foundation
Over the years, Citi has also supported our organization in developing supportive housing for senior citizens and acquiring and rehabilitating HUD foreclosed small homes into first-time homebuying opportunities. With Citi and Citi Foundation’s support, CHLDC has been able to meet the moment and scale solutions to match the urgency of the housing crisis our community faces.
Legacy Award Honoree
Michelle Neugebauer
Michelle Neugebauer is a visionary leader, tireless advocate, and lifelong organizer whose deep commitment to justice has transformed the Cypress Hills and East New York neighborhoods—and inspired
community development efforts citywide. As the founding full-time staff member and longtime Executive Director of Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation (CHLDC), Michelle has spent over 40 years building one of New York City’s most impactful, holistic, and people-powered organizations.
Community Leader Honoree
Melodye Harvey
For nearly 14 years, Melodye Harvey has served as a dedicated and trusted member of the Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation (CHLDC) Board of Directors. A lifelong resident of East New York, Melodye has lived in the community for over 50 years and has spent her life working to ensure that her neighborhood is one where families can thrive, grow, and feel a true sense of belonging.
Board Leader Honoree
Michael Golan
Michael Golan’s lifelong commitment to community justice and grassroots leadership began at just 15 years old, when he first joined the United Community Centers (UCC.) Drawn to its mission of bringing together people from all races, religions, and backgrounds to organize for social change, Michael found a second home at UCC: a place where activism and collective purpose thrived.
Moments & Messages
Bank United
“Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation continues to be a leader in the non-profit space with their innovative programs, caring team, and tremendous passion for the work they do.”
FOA & Sons
“The amazing venue, the caring people., the all-important cause....all combined for a perfect night !! “
ESKW
“ESKW/Architects is proud to support the incredible work of our partners and grateful for the opportunity to help stabilize and revitalize the vibrant communities of Cypress Hills and East New York.”
Teghvir Sethi-Spatial Equity
Cypress Hills will always remain a home for me thanks to the incredible group of leaders and servants who work tirelessly to improve the lives of residents. I am so proud to have had the opportunity to work with Michelle and celebrate her career and the inclusion of UCC in the organization. Lots of love!
The Team at Heitler Houstoun Architects
We are especially proud to sponsor CHLDC’s Stronger Together Event this year in light of Michelle’s retirement. Working with Michelle to bring affordable housing, senior housing and even new models of shared housing to Cypress Hills over the years has been our honor. She has fought for this community tirelessly for decades and her legacy is tangible. We wish Michelle a wonderful next chapter. We’re inspired by the foundation she has laid and look forward to continuing our work with CHLDC.
Photography by: Cindy Trinh
Sponsored through North Star Fund
