Review & Comment:
Death of Jordan Neely reminds us of systemic changes needed in mental health infrastructure

December 16, 2024 Jocelynne Rainey

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey. Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Org

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As we approach the holiday season — a time that should be marked by compassion and community — we are reminded of the profound challenges facing so many of our fellow New Yorkers. The tragic death of Jordan Neely serves as a stark and sobering example of the intersection of mental health struggles, homelessness and systemic shortcomings that demand our urgent attention.

Jordan Neely’s life, filled with moments of both joy and hardship, was cut short in a tragic encounter with Daniel Penny — an encounter that underscores the critical need to address the mental health crisis in our city. This devastating loss is not just a singular event; it reflects a broader societal failure to provide adequate support and resources for individuals who are struggling.

New York City is home to countless individuals who face mental health challenges every day, many of whom also grapple with homelessness and a lack of access to basic services. These individuals are our neighbors, our community members, and they deserve dignity, compassion and comprehensive support.

At Brooklyn Org, we are committed to supporting the nonprofits that tirelessly work to uplift our most vulnerable populations. This includes organizations that provide shelter, mental health services and pathways to stability for the unhoused and those navigating mental health challenges. Their work is particularly vital during the holiday season, a time when the weight of these struggles can feel even heavier.

As we honor Jordan Neely’s memory, let us also recommit ourselves to building a city where such tragedies are no longer possible. This means advocating for systemic change, investing in mental health infrastructure, and fostering a culture of care and understanding.

During this holiday season, let us extend our compassion not just through words but through actions. Let us support the organizations that are on the frontlines of this crisis. Let us reach out to those in need, offering a helping hand and a listening ear. And let us work together to ensure that every New Yorker has access to the support and services they need to lead a life of dignity and hope.

In the spirit of the season, let us come together as a community to confront these challenges head-on. It is only through collective effort and unwavering dedication that we can prevent future tragedies and honor the humanity of every individual in our city.

About Jocelynne Rainey

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, Ed.D. is a leader in New York City’s nonprofit sector and a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership experience. As President & CEO, Dr. Rainey has led Brooklyn Org’s (BKO) bold evolution from Brooklyn Community Foundation to create a more inclusive and accessible model for community philanthropy. BKO has launched a new strategic plan to provide deeper support to nonprofit changemakers and marshal the resources required to end inequity in New York City’s largest borough.

Under Dr. Rainey’s leadership, Brooklyn Org has surpassed $125 million in total giving and expanded its sector-leading commitments to racial justice and community engagement. Dr. Rainey has championed a holistic participatory grantmaking approach in which all funding decisions are made in partnership with community members and annual Listening Tours that engage neighborhood residents in conversation to shape BKO’s funding and policy priorities.