Carlina Rivera, President and CEO of the New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH), is a deeply rooted community leader with a background in grassroots organizing, nonprofit social justice work, and legislative leadership. Carlina has over a decade of experience in public service, housing policy, and community advocacy. As a New York City Council Member for two terms, Carlina left a substantial impact on Manhattan’s District 2 and beyond, prioritizing affordable housing, helping secure millions of dollars in funding for housing preservation and production, and advancing key legislation to address apartment vacancies and expand stable housing opportunities. She played a key role in passing the landmark City of Yes for Housing Opportunity rezoning law. Raised by a single mother in Section 8 housing on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Carlina Rivera began her activism early—organizing alongside neighbors to fight for the renewal of Section 8 housing contracts. She began her career in after-school programming for high-needs schools, later becoming the Director of Programs at the nonprofit Good Old Lower East Side (GOLES). Rivera also served as an officer of Manhattan Community Board 3 and as Legislative Director for Council Member Rosie Mendez. As a City Council Member, Carlina chaired the Committee on Hospitals during the COVID-19 crisis, led the Committees on Criminal Justice and Cultural Affairs, and served on the Land Use Committee and Budget Negotiation Team. Carlina also served on the City Council Speaker’s Leadership Team in both of her terms. Rivera holds a B.A. in Journalism from Marist College and lives with her husband, two sons, dog, and pet turtle on Manhattan’s East Side.