Karla Alonso
New York,NY
Summary
Community engagement and public service leader with 10+ years of experience designing and managing large-scale outreach, stakeholder engagement, and resident-centered initiatives across New York City. Proven ability to build and mobilize diverse communities, lead cross-sector partnerships, and collaborate with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders to advance public safety, civic participation, health equity, and neighborhood revitalization. Skilled in public engagement, coalition building, facilitation, program strategy, and data-informed decision making. Bilingual English-Spanish professional committed to strengthening connections between communities and public institutions.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Manager
Center for Justice Innovation (CJI)
Manhattan, NY
06.2024 - Current
- Lead community engagement and technical assistance efforts across 30 NYCHA developments citywide, supporting resident-led initiatives focused on public safety, health equity, neighborhood improvement, and civic participation.
- Manage stakeholder relationships with residents, city agencies, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders to advance community-driven priorities.
- Design and facilitate public engagement strategies, stakeholder meetings, listening sessions, trainings, and community events that strengthen resident participation and leadership.
- Coordinate partnerships with NYCHA, DYCD, NYPD, Department of Health, Department of Transportation, community-based organizations, and other public-sector stakeholders.
- Oversee implementation of resident-led projects and community investments, ensuring alignment with local priorities and organizational goals.
- Analyze resident feedback, engagement data, and community trends to inform strategic planning, program improvements, and policy discussions.
- Support leadership development through the MAP Ambassador Council (MAC) and NeighborhoodStat Alumni Network, expanding opportunities for resident advocacy and civic engagement.
Mayor's Action Plan Community Coordinator
Living Redemption Community Development Corporation (LRCDC)
01.2023 - 06.2024
- Recruited and trained resident leaders, building a pipeline of engaged community participants.
- Coordinated community outreach efforts, programming, and events that increased participation and strengthened partnerships.
- Collaborated with city agencies and community partners to support implementation of resident-driven initiatives.
Mayor's Action Plan Community Coordinator
Center for Court Innovation (CCI)
10.2017 - 08.2019
- Led implementation of community-based programming and engagement initiatives across NYCHA campuses.
- Developed systems for program coordination, outreach tracking, and data collection to strengthen execution and outcomes.
Community Associate
New York City Housing Authority
09.2012 - 10.2017
- Managed a $170,000 stipend program supporting more than 400 resident volunteers monthly.
- Developed and led recruitment efforts across 50+ locations, helping engage more than 600 residents in community initiatives.
- Coordinated resident leadership and volunteer programs focused on public safety and community engagement.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Speech-Language Pathology
Lehman College
Bronx, NY01-2023
Skills
- Community Engagement & Outreach
- Stakeholder Management
- Government & Community Relations
- Public Facilitation
- Cross-Sector Partnerships
- Civic Engagement
- Community Organizing
- Program Strategy & Implementation
- Event & Meeting Facilitation
- Resident Leadership Development
- Data Analysis & Evaluation
- Strategic Communications
- Bilingual English/Spanish
Timeline
Program Manager
Center for Justice Innovation (CJI)
06.2024 - Current
Mayor's Action Plan Community Coordinator
Living Redemption Community Development Corporation (LRCDC)
01.2023 - 06.2024
Mayor's Action Plan Community Coordinator
Center for Court Innovation (CCI)
10.2017 - 08.2019
Community Associate
New York City Housing Authority
09.2012 - 10.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Speech-Language Pathology
Lehman College
SELECTED IMPACT
- Supported engagement efforts across 30 NYCHA developments serving thousands of residents annually.
- Facilitated collaboration among 50+ city agencies, nonprofit organizations, elected officials, and community stakeholders.
- Helped guide resident-driven investments in public space improvements, food equity initiatives, youth programming, and neighborhood revitalization projects.
- Supported development and implementation of the MAP Ambassador Council and NeighborhoodStat Alumni Network initiatives.