SACSS Workforce Development Graduation with Commissioner Ali

SACSS celebrated an inspiring milestone as we recognized graduates of our Workforce Development programs, celebrating the dedication, hard work, and determination that brought them to this moment.

The graduation brought together students from our Stitch with SACSS, English, and Computer classes, who have been building practical skills and confidence to support their personal and professional goals. For many of our students, these programs are their first opportunity to step into a learning environment, develop new skills, gain independence, and take the next step toward a stronger future.

Commissioner Ali talking to SACSS seniors

We were honored to welcome Commissioner Faiza Ali, Commissioner of the New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, to SACSS. Before joining the Workforce Development graduation, Commissioner Ali spent time touring SACSS and learning about our programs and the work we do to support underserved New Yorkers. Her visit included time with our seniors at the Senior Center and a closer look at the inner workings of our Food Pantry, allowing her to connect with our community and staff across different areas of our work.

At the graduation, Commissioner Ali congratulated each graduate and shared a personal story about her mother, who was a seamstress. She spoke about her mother’s journey from sewing traditional Indian clothing to creating dresses for opera singers. Her story created a meaningful connection with our Stitch with SACSS students and reflected how skills, determination, and opportunity can open doors and create new possibilities across generations.

A painting as a tribute to Stitch with SACSS by Vaidehi Kinkhabwala

The celebration was made even more special with the unveiling of a painting by Vaidehi Kinkhabwala, a New York-based artist who was inspired by the work and mission of Stitch with SACSS. Created as a tribute to the program and the women it serves, the painting captures the spirit of creativity, resilience, and new possibilities at the heart of Stitch with SACSS. The artwork was unveiled during the graduation and will be available for auction on the SACSS website beginning October 5.

The celebration also gave our graduates the opportunity to share this milestone with their children, classmates, instructors, SACSS staff, and community members who have supported them along the way.

At SACSS, we believe that workforce development is about creating pathways to opportunity. Through programs like Stitch with SACSS and our English and Computer classes, we help community members develop the skills, confidence, and tools they need to pursue their goals and build brighter futures.

Students taking the stitching machines home after graduation

Congratulations to all of our graduates! Your hard work and perseverance brought you to this moment, and we are proud to celebrate all that you have accomplished. We look forward to seeing where your new skills take you next.