Imagine a space where community engagement thrives. That’s what Moca DC, the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs, is all about. It ensures the residents’ needs are met. It also heightens residents’ engagement and interests in the community.
Moca DC acts as a crucial link. It connects District of Columbia residents and the Executive Office of the Mayor. The office establishes partnerships with communities. It conducts events such as town halls and forums. These events support mayoral initiatives.
Moca DC also serves as a liaison. It connects the Mayor with community organizations. It also connects with civic groups and Advisory Neighborhood Commissions.
The office manages community needs. It does so through oversight of community affairs offices. There are 13 of these offices.
In October 2021, Muriel Bowser appointed Jackie Reyes-Yanes as Director of Moca DC. Reyes is the first Latina to be appointed to this position. Before Moca DC, she directed the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs for 6 years.
During her time as Director of MOLA, Reyes advocated for the Latino community. She ensured they were part of DC policy design and budget allocation. MOLA ensures health, education, employment, and social services are available. These services are available to Latino residents.
Reyes-Yanes has over 20 years of experience. She is committed to the diverse and growing Latino community. She was also the Latino Affairs and Community Outreach Director. She worked for the late DC councilmember Jim Graham.
Reyes spearheaded initiatives to address Latino residents’ needs. She organized gang prevention events. These events reduced street violence and crime. She helped secure financing. This financing rebuilt the Monsenor Romero Apartments. These apartments were destroyed by fire in 2008.
Director Reyes-Yanes also served the District’s Latino youth. She was a case manager at the Latin American Youth Center. She also worked in the Mayor’s Office of Community Relations and Services. She served under former Mayor Adrian Fenty.
She is recognized for creating safe spaces. She cultivates strategic partnerships with different stakeholders.
Moca DC was established through the Mayor’s Order 2008-46. It is responsible for ensuring the needs of DC residents are met. The office is located in the John A. Wilson Building. It is located at 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 332. The phone number is 202-442-8150. The email is communityaffairs@dc.gov.
Moca DC hosts community events. These events include budget engagement listening sessions. They engage with community stakeholders. They also address discrimination. Moca DC supports various initiatives. These initiatives include vaccine preregistration assistance. They also include community coat distribution.
So, as you explore Moca DC, consider its role. It connects residents to their local government. It amplifies voices. It builds a stronger, more engaged community.