At the end of each year, City & State New York turns its focus to honoring a select group of New Yorkers who exemplify what it means to be a socially responsible citizen. Dr. Arlene Goldsmith received this well-deserved honor and was named a 2021 Responsible 100, New Yorkers who are making the world a better place. Read more about all of the 2021 Responsible 100 New Yorkers at City & State NY.

Arlene Goldsmith, LCSW, PhD

Executive Director, New Alternatives for Children

Job description

New Alternatives for Children is an innovative child welfare agency serving 3,700 medically complex and behaviorally challenged children and their families annually in New York City. I provide strategic direction to our dedicated, multidisciplinary team that opens doors for children with critical health care needs. 

Defining social responsibility

Social responsibility means that we acknowledge vulnerable populations that need and deserve to be given opportunities to grow and to have what all people need in a civil society – equity, empathy, and empowerment. NAC is a change agent that works to enact policies that address issues affecting children with disabilities. Too many are ignored, oppressed, or disenfranchised. Those with disabilities are often treated as “less than” or even invisible. All children are worthy of respect, love, and care.