In addition, we offer an Assisted Competitive Employment (ACE) program for individuals looking to find work, and an Ongoing Integrated Supportive Employment (OISE) program for individuals presently working and seeking ongoing support.
Welcome!
Peer Training
Assisted Competitive Employment
Ongoing Integrated Supportive Employment
History
The HTH Advocacy Center (HTH) is named in honor of Community Access’ first Director of Advocacy, Howard Geld – better known by the moniker “Howie the Harp” – who tragically died just days before our Harlem center opened in 1995.
In 1968, after spending two years in mental health facilities, an 18-year-old Geld demanded to know why his psychiatric condition, and the label “ex-mental patient,” had come to define who he was. Addressing this sense of injustice propelled him to the forefront of a burgeoning patient rights movement with a fundamental philosophy, which, to this day, Community Access shares: to transform the treatment system, you need to transform its workforce.
Since its founding, HTH has been led by people of diverse backgrounds and experiences, including people of color who have ensured cultural competence among all staff and participants. Throughout its history, HTH has embodied the wisdom that those closest to the problem have a unique part to play in shaping the solution. As Howie once wrote, "To find out what people truly need, ask them."
HTH Graduation Film:
Celebrating 20 Years of Howie the Harp
Hear from trainers and graduates the story of HTH
Graduation Ceremonies
Every year in October, we pause to celebrate the accomplishments of HTH graduates. It's always a special and memorable occasion, featuring heartfelt speeches, award presentations, food, music, and a strong sense of community.
2019
October 10, 2019 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
A day to remember for every new graduate — and, 20 years into her Community Access career, for Cal Hedigan, congratulating everyone as our new CEO.
2018
October 4, 2018 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
As always, a great celebration — made still more resonant this year by the presentation of the HTH Hero Award to Steve Coe, ahead of his Community Access retirement.
2017
October 3, 2017 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
The smiles of our graduates each year reliably convey a life-affirming message: enjoy the moment.
2016
October 4, 2016 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
A 21st anniversary celebration, and many more reasons to believe: This Is Howie Do It!
2015
October 8, 2015 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of HTH made for an extra special occasion — and our graduates were especially thrilled to welcome a most esteemed guest: the First Lady of New York City, Chirlane McCray.
2014
October 14, 2014 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
A vivid moment in time: striking a balance between reflection, celebration, and excitement for the future.
2013
October 23, 2013 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
A particularly festive and musical ceremony, 2013 marked the first appearance of "The Voyage," HTH's alma mater.
2012
January 15, 2013 · NYU Kimmel Center, NYC
Hurricane Sandy forced us to delay this ceremony by four months, but it couldn't diminish the enthusiasm of our graduates, nor their sense of purpose.
2011
October 27, 2011 · Alhambra Ballroom, NYC
A night to remember, at a suitably storied and historic Harlem venue, just a couple of blocks from our training center.