Celebrating a Trailblazer in Aging Services: Claudette Macey

At Fort Greene Council, we are proud to recognize our very own CEO/Executive Director, Claudette Macey, who was recently featured in the NYC Department for the Aging’s Provider Staff Profile. With nearly five decades of unwavering dedication to older adults, Ms. Macey has transformed aging services and built a legacy of advocacy, innovation, and community empowerment.

A Career Inspired by Aging

Ms. Macey’s journey into social work was deeply personal. Originally a teacher, she was introduced to the aging sector by her predecessor, Grace Agard-Harewood, at a time when she was also caring for her mother. This experience fueled her passion for supporting older adults, leading her to pursue degrees in social work. From that moment on, she dedicated her career to ensuring that older New Yorkers receive the care, respect, and opportunities they deserve.

Expanding Fort Greene Council’s Reach

Under Ms. Macey’s leadership, Fort Greene Council has grown from a small organization into a powerhouse of 15 older adult centers. But these centers are far from traditional—Ms. Macey has shattered outdated stereotypes by introducing dynamic programs such as:

✅ Zumba Gold and Ballroom Dancing 💃🏾🕺🏽

✅ Drama Clubs and Gardening 🌿🎭

✅ Technology Classes for Older Adults 💻📱

✅ A 60+ Steel Pan Band 🎶🥁 (the only one in the country, which has performed at Lincoln Center and the Apollo!)

Through her vision, Fort Greene Council has proven that older adults can learn, create, and thrive at any age.

A Champion for Healthier Living

Recognizing the importance of nutrition, Ms. Macey spearheaded NYC Aging’s first-ever plant-based cook-off. With a mission to introduce healthier meal options to older adults, she invited NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez and other leaders to taste innovative, flavorful dishes. By making plant-based meals both delicious and culturally relevant, she successfully shifted perceptions about nutrition and aging.

Supporting Aging in Place

Beyond programming, Ms. Macey is a fierce advocate for aging in place. She educates older adults about their rights, ensures they access essential resources, and promotes independence. Fort Greene Council provides daily meals, benefits assistance, and intergenerational programs to keep older adults engaged and empowered. As she often reminds us: “You are not just aging—you are living.”

The Evolution of NYC Aging

Having worked with multiple NYC Aging administrations, Ms. Macey has witnessed the department’s transformation firsthand. She credits Commissioner Cortés-Vázquez for leading the charge in tackling ageism and expanding access to vital resources. Today, NYC Aging is at the forefront of making New York City a more age-inclusive place, thanks to leaders like Ms. Macey who continue to push boundaries.

A Legacy of Advocacy and Dedication

When asked what keeps her motivated after five decades, Ms. Macey’s answer is simple: “The people.” She sees older adults and children as the heart of our community, and she remains committed to being their advocate. As long as she is needed, Ms. Macey will continue to lead, ensuring that every older New Yorker has the opportunity to age with dignity, connection, and purpose.

We at Fort Greene Council celebrate and honor Ms. Claudette Macey for her extraordinary contributions and unwavering leadership. Thank you for inspiring us all! 💙

📢 Read the full NYC Aging Provider Staff Profile here: https://mailchi.mp/b66d2dc92af4/march-news-and-updates-5855632

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