Dear Clients, Families, and Staff,

When I think about what makes Paul J. Cooper Center for Human Services special, it always comes back to you. This organization has been here for decades because of the people we serve, the families who trust us, and the staff who give their hearts every day. We are a community, and that’s what keeps me grounded as CEO.

The truth is, these past few years have changed us all. In New York City and across the country, we’ve seen how fragile health can be and how much mental health matters. So many of us have carried stress, loss, and uncertainty, but we’ve also seen resilience—neighbors helping neighbors, families leaning on one another, staff showing up day after day to care for our community.

That’s why our mission feels more urgent than ever: to provide care that heals, strengthens, and uplifts. For us, wellness isn’t just about treatment—it’s about dignity, prevention, and the small everyday things that help people thrive. Whether it’s supporting a young person struggling with stress, walking with a family through recovery, or helping a senior stay connected and well, we want to meet people where they are and walk beside them.

Looking ahead, our focus is steady and real.
We are continuing to strengthen access to mental health and wellness services, expand prevention programs, and ensure our care is culturally responsive and rooted in equity. These aren’t abstract goals—they are priorities we are already working on every day with the support of our staff, partners, and community.

I don’t take lightly the trust you place in us. To our staff: thank you for your compassion, your strength, and your commitment. To our clients and families: thank you for letting us be part of your journey. To our partners: thank you for standing with us in this work.

I believe the future of health and wellness in our city depends on community—on places like Paul J. Cooper, where people are seen, valued, and supported. I’m proud of where we’ve been, and even more hopeful for where we are going.

With gratitude and respect,

Stachee Matthew
Chief Executive Officer
Paul J. Cooper Center for Human Services