Gary P. Jenkins—CEO of Urban Pathways and former NYC Department of Social Services Commissioner—joins Greg Morris for a conversation on leadership, resilience, and building systems that actually work for New Yorkers.

From growing up in Fort Greene as the youngest of eight, to navigating early setbacks in college and rising through every level of city government, Jenkins shares the experiences that shaped his commitment to service. Now leading Urban Pathways, he brings that perspective to the frontlines of addressing homelessness, with a focus on housing-first solutions and long-term stability.

Greg and Gary unpack mentorship, failure, and the weight of expectation. Real change takes persistence, and people willing to push systems forward.

Produced by: Manhattan Neighborhood Network

Published by: New York City Employment and Training Coalition

Topics: homelessness; housing; public service; leadership; mentorship; systems change; Urban Pathways; NYC government; resilience; New York City