After two decades of working as an executive in the fashion industry, Andrew Diskin changed course and became a social worker. Now, he uses his personal experiences and passion for helping others to connect with the people he works with.
Andrew is the Director of Social Services at Urban Pathways’ Scattered Site program in the Bronx. Each week he meets with residents to help them work on their goals, either traveling to their homes located throughout the Bronx or meeting in the office. Residents at the Scattered Site program have found a stable place to call home, and Andrew helps them identify their next move: whether they want to go back to school, find part-time employment, or address medical issues, he ensures that each individual is at the forefront of their journey towards stability and self-sufficiency.
You have to meet people where they’re at and take it step by step.
Back in 2012, Andrew was working as an executive in the fashion industry. His decision to quit drinking alcohol led him to question how he could give back—he wanted to help others the way that people in his life had helped him on his path to sobriety. Seeking fulfillment in his professional life, he went back to school and began working in the human services sector. His manager at Urban Pathways supported his educational journey, and he recently earned his Master of Social Work degree. Andrew has also been a vocal advocate for the #JustPay Campaign, participating in advocacy videos and outreach to push for better pay for social workers in government-contracted positions.
I have less money in my pocket, but I know I made a difference today.
Now, Andrew has found the fulfillment he was looking for: he appreciates Urban Pathways’ person-centered approach, and he likes working with colleagues who care deeply about the people they are serving. But most importantly, he knows that his work is changing lives every day.
