Meet our first featured resident, Michael

Meet our first featured resident, Michael, age 69, a true Harlem original with a story that encapsulates the essence of our iconic neighborhood – past and present.

Michael's journey through Harlem's history is rich with vivid memories, from the tough times filled with gangs, muggings, and strife, to his adventures as a young boy in Marcus Garvey Park. He reminisces with laughter, "I climbed up on the mountains - I was a little bad boy then."

Growing up as one of nine siblings, he took a different path than some of his childhood friends, steering clear of trouble. "I've never been incarcerated, never did state, federal, city time," he shares.

Now in his retirement, Michael faces financial challenges as the government reduces his benefits. He longs for the support of his family, although he candidly admits they often fall short, leaving him somewhat bewildered.

“I just gotta wait on the good Lord and see how He can provide because He’ll make a way, somehow He’ll make a way.... He’s right on time.”

Nonetheless, Harlem remains his anchor. He finds solace in the senior citizen centers where he enjoys meals, TV, and companionship, quipping, "I just want to eat."

As the Harlem community undergoes change, with an influx of diverse residents, Michael observes a disconnection among people. He laments the lack of greetings on Lenox Avenue and the fading community spirit he once knew.

With dreams of relocating to South Carolina, Michael longs for a more welcoming environment. Despite the challenges he faces, he's confident God will pave the way for his next chapter, saying, "I just gotta wait on the good Lord and see how He can provide because He’ll make a way, somehow He’ll make a way.... He’s right on time."