I was born and raised in White Plains, New York. I was fortunate enough to live close the Youth Bureau.This allowed me to spend my out of school time enjoying the various teen activities. Many of the staff guided my steps as a young boy. Among the Youth Bureau staff that was influential to me were Odessa McGill, Joseph Mosley, Deveria Searcy and others.

I enjoyed the teen programs including the gym program, playing ping pong, pool and other games and activities. The mentoring and the teen programs helped me to develop character, citizenship and leadership. We were so fortunate to have a place to go and people who cared about us.

As a youngster, I got my first job with the Youth Bureau doing odd jobs in local homes. I also worked with the Greening Project which helped develop my employment skills.

As I grew into a young man, through the help of the Youth Bureau, I found work with the White Plains Recreation Department and then later, Westchester County.

In 1997 I became a full-time employee with the City of White Plains in the Department of Public Works. At the same time, I further my education by attending Lehman College studying Recreation Administration. After starting out in an entry level position with the Department of Public Works, I became a supervisor. Now I supervise a crew of men helping manage the upkeep, maintenance e and improvement of the Ice Rink, parks, grounds and other city facilities. I credit the Youth Bureau for helping to shape my life, offering support, encouragement and direction.