Carola will give an overview of the shifts in national immigration policies in recent years and how this has impacted the immigrant families that live in our communities. We will explore the role of local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the enforcement of immigration law. We will also discuss how immigrant families are impacted at the very local level and what tools are available to them as they work to stabilize their lives and contribute to the economy and culture of our country.
Carola Otero Bracco, Executive Director of Neighbors Link, has a strong personal connection to the Neighbors Link mission of strengthening the whole community through the healthy integration of immigrants. As a first generation American born of immigrant parents from Bolivia, Carola understands the challenges that accompany the immigrant experience in America and is dedicated to inspiring healthy integration in the community. Carola is bilingual and bicultural and is driven by her passion for empowering immigrant families and advocating for personal growth through education and economic development.
During Carola’s tenure, Neighbors Link has become a leader in designing, implementing and directing community-based, bilingual educational and cultural awareness training programs. Furthermore, with her guidance and leadership, the organization has quadrupled in size in 10 years and is strategically scaling the Neighbors Link model in communities that are ready to embrace our mission.
Before becoming Executive Director of Neighbors Link in April of 2004, Carola spent 12 years of her career gaining experience in financial management with General Electric Corporation, Ford Motor Company and Time Warner. She holds an MBA from Duke University and currently serves on the boards of the National Council for Workforce Education, Nonprofit Westchester, and the New York Immigration Coalition. She previously served on the board of Northern Westchester Hospital.
Carola is recognized as an expert on immigration issues in the New York Metropolitan area. She has received numerous awards and recognitions. Most recently, she received the Champion for Children Award from the Child Care Council of Westchester and was selected as the New York Senate District 40 Woman of Distinction for 2019 by Senator Peter Harckham.
Providing leadership and vision for Neighbors Link is something Carola sees as her life’s work and she often says it is a privilege to be in her position as executive director.
Sunday Platform is our most important and long-standing community event. These gatherings educate, stimulate personal growth, inspire reflection and action, and strengthen our community. Sunday meetings usually begin with music, followed by greetings and a talk given by a Society Leader, member, or guest. Platforms cover a variety of topics that reflect current events, pressing social issues, and Ethical Culture philosophy. A collection basket is passed and money is shared between the Society and a charity selected for that day. While contributions are always appreciated, Sunday meetings are free and open to the public. Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.
To view previous Sunday Platform addresses and interviews, visit the Ethical NYC YouTube channel.
