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About The Gala

A Night of Legacy in Action

Honoring the Past. Activating the Present. Investing in the Future.

This year marks a pivotal moment in the journey of For The Better Inc.—five powerful years of championing youth, advancing health equity, and building economic opportunity for Brooklyn’s most underserved communities.

On Friday, September 19, 2025, we gather not just to reflect—but to reignite our commitment to change. The Legacy in Action Gala is an evening of purpose and prestige, where community leaders, philanthropists, visionaries, and advocates come together to celebrate impact—and fuel the future.

Hosted in the heart of Brooklyn, this black-tie affair will feature:

Powerful storytelling from youth and families we serve
Honoree recognitions for leaders driving community transformation
Live performances and curated entertainment
Elegant dining, networking, and fellowship.

From the red carpet to the closing toast, every moment of the evening reflects our mission: to build a world where equity is not a dream—but a shared legacy.

This is more than a gala. This is our blueprint for generational change.

Our Mission
& Impact

Why We Gather: The Mission Behind the Gala

For The Better Inc. is dedicated to fostering health equity, educational opportunities, and economic empowerment for Brooklyn families. Over the past five years, the Legacy in Action Gala has been our cornerstone event, raising vital funds and awareness to support youth programs, family services, and community initiatives.

This year, we come together to celebrate the progress we’ve made and to set our sights on the work ahead.

Celebrating Legacy In Action

Honoring the Leaders Shaping a Better Tomorrow

At the heart of every thriving community are individuals whose passion, perseverance, and purpose illuminate the path forward for others. Each year, For The Better Inc. honors those rare leaders whose daily work is both a calling and a catalyst—those who challenge inequities, build bridges across communities, and leave behind a blueprint of impact for generations to follow.

Our Legacy in Action Awards recognize more than just professional excellence—they celebrate the soul of service, the courage to lead, and the unwavering commitment to create lasting change. From public policy to public health, from neighborhood safety to youth empowerment, this year’s honorees embody the spirit of transformation in every sphere they touch.

In our 5th anniversary year, we are proud to spotlight these extraordinary changemakers whose legacies are not just being written—they are being lived.

We are proud to present the 2025 Legacy in Action Award Honorees:

Mercedes Narcisse

New York City Council – District 46

Council Member Mercedes Narcisse is a registered nurse, civic leader, and fierce advocate for Brooklyn’s most underserved communities. As Chair of the Council’s Committee on Hospitals, she has championed legislation advancing healthcare access, public safety reform, and social equity. A proud Haitian-American and CUNY graduate, she continues to deliver millions in local investments—transforming schools, parks, libraries, and senior services across District 46. Her legacy is rooted in service, impact, and an unwavering commitment to justice for all.

Wanda Matos

Vice President, Director of Non-Profit Services – Ponce Bank

Wanda Matos is a devoted community leader and financial advocate who has spent over two decades empowering nonprofits across New York City. As Vice President and Director of Non-Profit Services at Ponce Bank, she serves as a vital bridge between financial institutions and grassroots organizations—amplifying access, equity, and economic growth in underserved communities. Her work has earned honors from City & State NY, the NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Greater Jamaica Development Corporation. With deep cultural roots and a lifelong commitment to service, Wanda’s legacy is defined by impact, inclusion, and lifting others as she leads.

David P. Tanos

Vice President – Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates

David P. Tanis is a distinguished nonprofit leader and government affairs strategist whose work bridges policy, advocacy, and community. As Vice President at Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates, he champions grassroots priorities in legislative spaces—ensuring underserved communities are heard, resourced, and empowered. A City & State “40 Under 40” Rising Star and 2025 Black Trailblazer honoree, David is also the founder of The Showing Hearts Foundation, where his ongoing board leadership continues to drive education, mentorship, and opportunity. With over a decade of impact, his legacy is defined by visionary service, equity-focused solutions, and transformative civic engagement.

Michael Joseph

Community Affairs Officer – NYPD, Patrol Borough Brooklyn South

Michael Joseph is a dedicated public servant and mentor whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to youth empowerment, public trust, and community upliftment. From his early years coaching in East Flatbush to his current role as Community Affairs Officer with the NYPD, he has consistently led with integrity, compassion, and purpose. His bridge-building efforts between law enforcement and the communities of Brooklyn South have earned widespread recognition, including honors from the NYPD, Brooklyn Borough Hall, and the New York State Senate. With over 20 years of impact, Michael’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and generational change.

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Tamar E. Ogburn

Manager, Navigator Support – Healthfirst

Tamar E. Ogburn is a trusted healthcare leader and advocate who has spent over 35 years expanding access and equity across New York City’s most underserved communities. Known affectionately as “The Resource Lady,” Tamar currently serves as Manager of Navigator Support at Healthfirst, leading statewide enrollment efforts through the New York State of Health marketplace. Her legacy includes decades of community relations leadership, deep cultural competency, and unwavering dedication to connecting families with life-changing care. A proud Queens native, Tamar continues to transform lives—guided by her personal mantra: “Change your thoughts, change your world.”

📖 Experience the Legacy

For The Better 5th Anniversary Gala – Digital Magazine

Relive the magic, meaning, and momentum of Gala Night 2025 through our beautifully curated Digital Gala Magazine — a keepsake that captures the heart of this historic celebration.

Inside, you’ll find:

✨ Honoree Spotlights – Celebrating leaders shaping our communities
✨ Sponsor Tributes – Recognizing the partners powering our mission
✨ Behind-the-Scenes Moments – From red carpet to community impact
✨ Mission Highlights – Stories of transformation, empowerment, and purpose

📬 Whether you attended in person or supported from afar, this magazine is our heartfelt thank you — and a testament to what’s possible when we come together for the better.

📲 Click below to flip through the full experience:

FOR THE BETTER INC.

Empowering Youth, Transforming Lives For The Better!

PROGRAMS + SUPPORT

About The Gala

A Night of Legacy in Action

Our Mission
& Impact

Why We Gather: The Mission Behind the Gala

Celebrating Legacy In Action

📖 Experience the Legacy

For The Better 5th Anniversary Gala – Digital Magazine

Application is no longer available.

FOR THE BETTER INC.

Empowering Youth, Transforming Lives For The Better!

PROGRAMS + SUPPORT

About The Gala

A Night of Legacy in Action

Our Mission & Impact

Why We Gather: The Mission Behind the Gala

Celebrating Legacy In Action

📖 Experience the Legacy

For The Better 5th Anniversary Gala – Digital Magazine​ ​​​

Application is no longer available.

Our Mission
& Impact

For The Better 5th Anniversary Gala – Digital Magazine