Let’s Make Good

Jesse knows what it’s like when you need people to show up for you. That’s why he’s been working in the affordable housing field for 25 years. He believes that we can create just and equitable communities through social cohesion—building a powerful support network of relationships. As the director of grants and special initiatives at HRI, Jesse is making sure residents have all the resources they need to thrive.

A neuroscientist with a background in tech, Dia’s perspective on social connection shifted profoundly during the pandemic when she met older adults with rich life experiences isolated in their community and young adults anxious about their future. Inspired, she founded Joint Family to connect neighbors across generations through inclusive dialogues–building trust, supportive networks, and social cohesion.

Too many people think of math like broccoli – or worse, chopped liver. But mathematicians Mira and Nataliya built a K-8 nonprofit program on the belief that math is dessert, too. The Cambridge Math Circle “unlocks math for kids,” fostering confidence early in students, especially those underrepresented in STEM.

Since she was a kid in Mexico City, Miriam has always been a convener. From inviting neighborhood kids to her house, to now organizing community with Just A Start. “People deserve access to opportunity regardless of where they come from,” she says, and at Just A Start she helps ensure bright career pathways for neighbors every day.

Choreographer Jessica Roseman uses dance to help others sense, feel, and move better. She says, “I want people to become aware of the power and beauty in the movements we already know; art in the memories we treasure.”

Rachel’s helping lead a citywide collaboration of food pantries to think big and bold about solving food security in Cambridge. “There’s often shame and stigma around going to a food pantry,” she says, “But we believe in making it a dignified experience. Everyone is welcome. We build relationships with our patrons.”

Growing up in Cambridge, sisters Joanna and Jasmine didn’t have access to strong role models. Now, they want to change that for the next generation. With support from our Imagined in Cambridge! Award, their nonprofit mentors young women and teaches real-life skills while, most importantly, fostering sisterhood.