Background: GRASP (Guiding Researchers and Advocates to Scientific Partnerships) is a patient-led organization that connects advocates, cancer researchers and clinicians, empowering them to exchange ideas and learn from each other. The goal is to create a shift toward a more inclusive research paradigm – by bringing these often-siloed groups together, GRASP hopes to drive more meaningful and fundable research which will, in turn, lead to faster progress to end breast and other cancers. Founded in 2019, GRASP has in just three years created a database of 1200 scientists and patients who are working together to identify unmet patient needs.  This cooperation can be especially meaningful for researchers who may not see how their work affects those with cancer - patients provide the human face to the science and a real-life picture of disease and its treatments. GRASP is also committed to fostering inclusive partnerships and addressing disparities that impact cancer research and...

Background: Central Park is one of the most famous and beloved urban public spaces in the world. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1857, the 843-acre park was the first purpose-built public park in the country and is a National Historic Landmark. The Central Park Conservancy, a private not-for-profit organization, was founded in 1980 to rescue the Park which had fallen into serious disrepair. Since that time, the Conservancy has overseen the investment of approximately $1.5 billion in the restoration of the Park, and now hosts over 42 million visitors a year. The Conservancy’s mission is to preserve and celebrate Central Park as a sanctuary from urban life. The City of New York has formally entrusted the care of the Park to the Conservancy which is responsible for every aspect of its care, including landscape maintenance, capital improvements, and the visitor experience. Committed to sharing the best practices in urban park management, the...

Background: The National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City, Inc. (NAMI-NYC) is a peer-based and -led grassroots organization that helps families and individuals affected by mental illness build better lives through education, support, and advocacy. As one of the largest affiliates of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI-NYC works collaboratively with state and national affiliates, and with stakeholders in the community, to educate the public, increase awareness, advocate for legislation, reduce stigma, and improve the mental health care system. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, NAMI-NYC touches the lives of over 23,000 people a year through its full portfolio of programs and services, virtually, in person and all free of charge. NAMI-NYC’s staff and volunteers understand the complexity of mental health issues because they, too, have lived with or supported a loved one with mental illness. This experience allows the staff to convey...