Building foundations for affordable homeownership

The Urban Builders Coalition’s efforts include restoring and rehabilitating homes, sharing information about housing policies and solutions, and enhancing public spaces through hands-on building projects and fundraising efforts. UBC actively engages local students and community members in volunteer opportunities to further our generation’s awareness of housing insecurity and foster inclusive, thriving communities in greater New York City. We are a New York 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Thus far we have raised over $12,000 for Walk for Homes, participated in the renovation of two properties in disaster areas, donated hundreds of pairs of shoes and clothing items for people contending with homelessness, and galvanized support for fundraising events and marches.

Our Mission

The Urban Builders Coalition (UBC) is a student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to support organizations and individuals focused on improving housing conditions and neighborhoods in the greater New York City area. We work to raise public awareness, and support affordable housing, community beautification, and urban sustainability. We firmly believe everyone deserves a home, and a sense of pride in their community.

Our Founders

Ryan Croman

Growing up in New York City, Ryan Croman developed a deep awareness of the housing crisis and its impact on local communities. At sixteen, driven by both compassion and ambition, he founded the Urban Builders Coalition to unite young people around practical, lasting solutions. Through partnerships with regional nonprofits and grassroots organizations, Ryan and his team focus on repairing homes, supporting policy initiatives, and empowering youth volunteers to strengthen their neighborhoods. His vision is a city where every resident has access to affordable housing and feels a shared responsibility for its future.

Our Founders

Reese Teramo

Reese Teramo, 16, joined UBC with a heartfelt mission to support affordable housing missions and beautify neighborhoods in and around New York City. Driven by a deep commitment to social equity and urban revitalization, she sees the potential for lasting impact through community-focused projects. Combining her interests in architecture, preservation, and housing justice, she works alongside Julian, their peers, and community members to promote access and services for the unhoused, contribute to disaster relief efforts, and enhance urban spaces through fundraising and hands-on building projects.

Reese believes in the power of our built environment to further economic mobility, urban culture, and collective well being.

Our Founders

Julian Silverstein

Growing up in New York City, Julian Silverstein was keenly aware of the housing crisis and its impact on quality of life. At age 16, eager to become a catalyst for change, Julian decided to merge his philanthropic spirit with his network of peers to grow his mission, and formed the Urban Builders Coalition. By creating partnerships through outreach with local and regional organizations, Julian and the UBC team strive to make a difference for their generation and those that follow. He brings a diversity of strengths, resources, and micro-solutions to the overwhelming challenge of housing insecurity.

Julian’s hope is that everyone has access to affordable housing in a neighborhood they’re proud to call home.

Projects

Building a Better Community

Community Development

At UBC, we are dedicated to driving positive change in our community. Our leadership team and volunteers are committed to tackling the housing crisis from multiple angles through creative initiatives and partnerships…

Neighborhood Revitalization

Our focus on neighborhood revitalization and beautification aims to enhance thriving, inclusive communities that reflect the city’s diversity and vibrant culture. We work closely with grassroots organizations and individuals to elevate …

Get Involved

We encourage youth, community members, and donors to join our initiative as we work to ease the effects of the housing crisis in the greater New York City area. Local students can sign up below to become part of a micro-solution.

Organizations we work with

Our Latest Blogs

News & Articles

New York City’s Housing Crisis: A Breaking Point

Zoning Laws: The Real Obstacle to Affordable Housing in NYC

The Elizabeth Street Garden – a win for both community and housing