New York City is a community of communities. Each of our boroughs and every one of our neighborhoods is home to its own vibrancy—its own unique nature. This unrivaled diversity is part of what makes our City great.

As Commissioner of the Community Affairs Unit, I am thrilled to oversee a staff that works hard night and day to maintain a direct link between City government and communities across the five boroughs. CAU works to improve the lives of all New Yorkers by collaborating with community boards, civic groups and non-profit organizations to not only address issues, but to make city government more accessible, transparent and accountable.

Through the passion and dedication of my entire staff, CAU is able to make a difference all over the City, in situations large and small. During this administration, CAU has been able to:

• Provide access to the Mayor and City government through the coordination of civic meetings throughout the City;
• Address community concerns and mitigate crisis through outreach;
• Clean up the City and enable citizens to do the same through the Mayor’s Graffiti Free NYC program;
• Assist with emergency response to natural and man-made disasters.

I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish but understand that our success hinges on our collaboration with City agencies, community organizations and most importantly: You.

I encourage every New Yorker to become active participants in their communities. Civic engagement ensures that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed.  Community stewardship is more than an investment of time – it is your commitment to ensuring the best for your community and, ultimately, the best for this city.

Please browse our website and take advantage of the extensive resources we have available, whether it is contacting your community board or signing up to volunteer through the Mayor’s Volunteer Center.  I look forward to working together for the ongoing enhancement of your community and the improvement of the overall quality of life in New York City.

Nazli Parvizi
Commissioner