Harlem residents and leaders are joining forces to address pressing concerns about public safety and quality of life in their neighborhood. They’ve formed a coalition to find solutions and rebuild a sense of community.

“If we wait for outsiders, if we wait for elected officials, the job will not get done,” said Larry Nickens, executive program director of HEIR B&B.

The group is made up of a coalition of tenant associations, local groups like the Heir Best & Brightest (B&B) Academy, Harlem Defense Coalition and Make Harlem Great Again.

"The block her garden is in was almost overtaken by loitering, people unfortunately using drugs. The other one is the violence issue—you know, unfortunately, we lost a young gentleman at 124th and Adam Clayton,” said Nickens.

While citywide NYPD data shows overall crime has decreased this year, residents say their lived experience tells a different story. Just last week, a 7-year-old girl was shot in the abdomen on 145th Street and Bradhurst Avenue. The alleged shooters were 17 and 19 years old, sparking renewed calls for youth-focused solutions.

“I grew up in NYCHA. I grew up right here at St. Nick projects. We had centers to go to to stay busy,” said Faheem Abdur-Razzaaq, president of the Schomburg Resident’s Council. “There’s nothing happening [for young people today].”

The coalition is preparing for a youth initiative later this month as part of its efforts to strengthen the community and provide alternatives for Harlem's youth. They are also calling on elected officials to take decisive action.

“Our ask is that our elected officials provide us with bills, hear our cry, see us organize collectively, and put bills on the table that address these needs and concerns,” said Nickens.

News 12 reached out to legislators representing Harlem for comment but had not received responses at the time of this report.

Organizers say they are hopeful their efforts will inspire broader community involvement. They are urging both residents and lawmakers to keep the momentum going to create lasting change.