Westchester Officials Discuss Housing, Health, and Youth Support at WCA Event

The Westchester Children's Association (WCA) held its annual Commissioners’ Conversation on Children on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Greenburgh Public Library.

Now in its fourth year, this important community conversation brings together Westchester County commissioners, executive directors, nonprofit leaders, educators, advocates, and residents to discuss the most pressing issues impacting children, youth, and families across Westchester County.

Moderated by Westchester Children's Association Executive Director Adam Rabinovitch, this year's panel featured Blanca Lopez, Commissioner of the Department of Planning; Elizabeth Oliveto, Program Administrator for Youth Development; John Befus, First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Social Services; Michael Orth, Commissioner of the Department of Community Mental Health; Rachel Kotzur, Assistant Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Probation; and Renee Recchia, First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Health.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins welcomed more than 75 attendees, including community members, county employees, and leaders from nonprofit organizations across the county. The annual Commissioners' Conversation is designed to foster collaboration, increase awareness of current challenges, and highlight solutions that support children and families throughout Westchester.

"Issues facing children and families today cannot be addressed by any single agency or organization alone," said County Executive Ken Jenkins. "Whether we are talking about health, mental health services, early childhood development, education, housing stability, youth engagement, or family support, progress requires collaboration across all levels of government, nonprofit organizations, schools, and the broader community. Events like today's conversation are so valuable because they allow us to build the connections and partnerships that make a difference for every family in Westchester County."

During the program, Limarie Cabrera, WCA's Director of Data, Finance, and Operations, announced the launch of the 2026 Children by the Numbers report. Published biennially by the Westchester Children's Association, the report provides a snapshot of how children are faring across Westchester County. It highlights key data and trends related to child well-being and serves as an important resource for policymakers, service providers, advocates, and community members.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of investing in prevention and providing support before families reach a crisis point. Panelists highlighted how early intervention can improve outcomes across a range of issues, from public health to housing stability and youth development.

Renee Recchia, First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Health, emphasized the long-term impact of lead exposure on children, noting, "If a child is lead poisoned, their IQ changes forever." She stressed that preventing lead exposure through proactive mitigation efforts can have lifelong benefits for children and families.

Blanca Lopez, Commissioner of the Department of Planning, highlighted the importance of housing stability and the need to support families before they face eviction. She discussed the significant stress and trauma housing insecurity can create for children and caregivers, underscoring the value of early intervention and coordinated community support.

John Befus, First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Social Services, shared a story about bringing together parents of gang-involved youth to better understand what could have made a difference in their children's lives. When asked what support would have helped their families, parents pointed to after-school programs, evening activities, opportunities for connection, and safe places for young people to gather. As Befus reflected, "Sometimes the solutions are simple. They are common sense."

"At this year's Commissioners’ Conversation, we explored a range of issues affecting children and families across Westchester, from the need for increased affordable housing to understanding how advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping workforce development," said Adam Rabinovitch, Executive Director of the Westchester Children's Association. "We are grateful to our panelists for sharing their expertise and for their ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for children throughout our community."

The Commissioners’ Conversation on Children is generously sponsored by Maria Fareri Children's Hospital and Hudson Valley Credit Union.

About Westchester Children’s Association

Founded in 1914, the Westchester Children’s Association is the only independent child advocacy organization in Westchester County. WCA uses data, research, and community engagement to drive policy solutions that ensure every child is healthy, safe, and prepared for life’s challenges — regardless of race, income, or zip code.