A letter from our Executive Director

This time of year is an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments we’ve achieved together and to look ahead with hope and optimism.
As we step into the new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had over the past year. It has been a year of both challenges and triumphs, a year of transitions, but also one filled with remarkable accomplishments.
As NAC’s new Executive Director, I know I have some very large shoes to fill and want to thank Dr. Arlene Goldsmith for her incredible dedication and leadership over the past 43 years. NAC is the gold standard in child welfare because of Arlene’s vision and dedication to quality.
I remain dedicated to maintaining the quality NAC is known for and to ensuring that every NAC child achieves safety, permanency and well-being. I am proud to report that over a quarter of children in foster care at NAC (49 children) went home to permanently live with a family of their own, and 1,710 children remained safely in their homes and avoided foster care placement.
Some of the most inspiring moments for me in the last year were seeing the children we support reach significant milestones. A total of 18 youth graduated from high school and started college this year, one of whom started New York Law School and another Wesleyan University. Their achievements, and those of so many others, remind us of the profound impact our work has on the lives of the children and families we serve.
This year also marked a very special milestone for us—after the long pause due to the pandemic, we were finally able to bring back our beloved holiday party. While the gathering was smaller than in years past, it meant so much to the families who were able to attend. We are hopeful that this coming year, we can return the event to the way it was meant to be and continue creating those moments of connection and joy.
I am also incredibly proud of how we have continued to support and uplift families and children in need, providing a sense of stability and hope. Whether through our programs, events, or day-to-day support, each of you has played an essential role in ensuring that we make a difference.
None of this would be possible without the amazing staff we have here. The dedication, compassion, and hard work are what make this organization so special. I am truly grateful to work alongside such an extraordinary team.
Here’s to another year of making an impact, of growing together, and of continuing to build a better future for the children and families who rely on us.
With greatest gratitude,
David Goldstein, Psy.D.
Executive DirectorÂ