Aileen Lara
Aileen Lara is a seasoned Case Management and Program Coordination professional with over a decade of experience overseeing client services, community engagement, and credentialing. Based in the New York City metropolitan area, she leads by example and demonstrates a genuine commitment to giving back to the community. Throughout her career, Aileen has developed and managed programs serving diverse populations, including seniors and individuals with developmental disabilities (ID/DD), ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while delivering high-quality, compassionate care.
In her current role as Activity Director at 2nd Home Adult Medical Day Care, Aileen manages operations and program design for over 180 clients, maintaining peace and order within the facility while building authentic relationships and accepting individuals for who they are. She also serves as a community liaison and organizer, cultivating partnerships with civic leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders. Additionally, she oversees multimillion-dollar budgets, optimizes CRM systems, and drives fundraising and major gift strategies that support program growth and sustainability.
Aileen earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology/Urban Studies with a minor in Social Justice (2020) and an Associate of Science in Public Policy (2019) from Saint Peter’s University. She is a published author, contributing the chapter “The Power of Presence: A Caregiver’s Journey Through Love, Loss, and Legacy” to Women of Purpose: Compassionate Hearts. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Aileen enjoys writing, spending time at the beach, and creating meaningful memories with her daughter. Her leadership, dedication to service, and ability to foster authentic connections continue to define her impactful career.
• Certificate in Local Coordinator Training
• Certificate in Bank Teller
• Certificate in Protecting God's Children
• Saint Peter's University - BA
• Saint Peter's University - AS
• East Orange Chamber of Commerce
• Alpha Kappa Delta Honors Society
• 2nd Home Adult Medical Day Care as
Community Coordinator
• Sacred Heart Academy at Fundraising Officer
• St Augustine's Primary School Fundraising Coordinator
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for giving back to the community, creating opportunities for others, and supporting people in getting a second chance. I strive to approach every situation with empathy and understanding, avoiding judgment and fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and empowered. This commitment to uplifting others has been a driving force behind both my personal growth and professional achievements.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to treat others the way I would want to be treated. This principle of respect, integrity, and empathy has guided my professional interactions, helping me build meaningful relationships, foster collaboration, and navigate challenges with fairness and understanding.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to lead with your heart, as this is a deeply compassionate and people-centered role. True fulfillment and success come not just from professional achievements, but from the positive impact you make and the ways you give back to society. Embrace empathy, remain authentic, and let your commitment to helping others guide your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is finding positions that offer sufficient financial compensation, as the work is often driven by passion rather than profit. However, the greatest reward lies in the heart and compassion that this career allows me to share making a meaningful difference in people’s lives and contributing positively to the community.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, self-belief, and compassion. Staying true to myself, trusting in my abilities, and approaching others with kindness and understanding guide my decisions, relationships, and the impact I strive to make every day.