Outstanding Caretakers Honored at DeCarlo Awards

A proud NYCHA tradition continued with the presentation of the 2016 John DeCarlo Memorial Award for Caretakers to Roberto Rodriguez, Jr., caretaker J at Johnson Houses in Manhattan, on June 10.

To the cheers of family members, co-workers, and managers, Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye presented Mr. Rodriguez with a check for $1,000. Runner-up Joseph Benson, caretaker J at Stapleton Houses in Staten Island, received a $500 prize.

Chair Olatoye also congratulated five caretakers who were awarded certificates of excellence, recalling Human Resources Director Kenya Salaudeen’s apt description of all the awardees as “the magnificent seven.”

“One thing that hasn’t changed since John DeCarlo lost his life at Marlboro Houses almost 20 years ago,” the Chair said, “is the fortitude and determination of today’s honorees, which John DeCarlo personified…This award shows that your hard work is acknowledged by our leadership and by your own colleagues.”

Citing just a few of the changes brought by Next-Generation NYCHA, Chair Olatotye mentioned initiatives to create “a safer place to work and live” and the use of hand-held devices by the end of year that will enable staff to close work tickets faster.

In thanking supervisors and others for his award, Mr. Rodriguez also included his mother, who launched his career by encouraging him to work in NYCHA’s Summer Youth Employment Program in 1999. As a runner-up for the past two years, Mr. Rodriguez told the other nominees: “Don’t give up. It wasn’t easy for me. I had to work hard, just like others did.”

Runner-up Joseph Benson, who said he was nominated seven times for the coveted prize, also demonstrated outstanding consistency and determination. “Pride in my work keeps me motivated,” he said, “and a sturdy upbringing with respect for a day’s work.”

Ms. Salaudeen thanked supervisors for taking the time to prepare nomination forms and commendation memos for all the nominees. She also encouraged supervisors to “catch your employees doing something good—and tell them.” Everyone at NYCHA “no matter what job we do can learn something from your hard work and dedication,” she told the honorees.

Honoree Profiles

Winner: Roberto Rodriguez

Johnson Houses, Manhattan Property Management Dept.

Hired as a caretaker in 2008, Roberto Rodriguez has been honored at three John DeCarlo Memorial Award ceremonies. He was runner-up for the last two years before clinching the highest honor this year.

Supervisors praise Mr. Rodriguez for his positive attitude, quality of work, and self motivation. He is able to work independently without close supervision. He willingly takes on additional assignments which sets a good example for all staff to follow. And he is known not just as a team player but as a coach, always willing to help his co-workers. While always completing his assignments, Mr. Rodriguez still finds time to stop and help residents who need assistance. He has received a commendation from the resident association for his positive attitude and providing outstanding service for the maintenance of his assigned buildings.

Runner-up: Joseph Benson

Stapleton Houses, S.I. Property Management Dept.

Mr. Benson was hired as a caretaker in 1996. His supervisors consistently commend him for the dedication and pride that he takes in his work. Appreciating his hard work, the residents cooperate by doing what they can to help keep the buildings clean. Mr. Benson also constantly monitors buildings to ensure that safety standards are followed, immediately reporting any potential hazards. A respectful and responsible employee—always willing to assist his co-workers—Mr. Benson is well-liked by all.

Last August, Mr. Benson demonstrated his resourcefulness and character when he came to the aid of a pregnant co-worker who fainted on the job. While waiting for professional help to arrive, Mr. Benson performed CPR, saving the young woman’s life. She later deliver a beautiful baby boy.