Ep 111: Many Voices One Community with Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews and guest Irma Jeanty on hmTv

Episode 111: Many Voices, One Community
Guest: Irma Jeanty | Host: Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews

In this powerful debut episode of Many Voices, One Community on hmTv, host Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews sits down with longtime friend and community changemaker Irma Jeanty, Director of the Glen Cove EOC. With warmth, humility, and passion, Irma shares her personal journey from growing up in Haiti to becoming a tireless advocate for youth, seniors, and families on Long Island.

Together, they explore how love, service, and community empowerment can transform lives—from launching food programs for seniors to college tours that inspire young people to dream bigger. Irma reflects on her upbringing, her daughter's recent graduation from Berkeley Law, and how she uses both compassion and accountability to guide the next generation.

They also dive into critical issues of our time, including bullying, antisemitism, and the need for inclusive leadership. This heartfelt conversation sets the tone for a podcast committed to honoring diverse voices and shared humanity.

Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with hope, gratitude, and the reminder that one person can make a lasting difference in their community.

Transcript

Episode 111 — Many Voices, One Community with Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews and Guest Irma Jeanty

Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews:
Hello and welcome to Many Voices, One Community, stories from across Long Island and beyond. I’m Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, and I’m so pleased to serve as Community Engagement Officer here at the Center. It is truly a special treat for me to host this podcast. And with me today is my good friend, Irma Jeanty.

Irma, I have known you for such a long time—I'm not even sure when it began. I started volunteering at the Glen Cove EOC years ago, and since then, I’ve watched you become such an inspiring part of this community. I could not be more thrilled to have you here as my very first guest on this show. And I think that’s fitting—because when I think of the many voices that build one community, the first person that comes to mind is you.

Irma Jeanty:
Thank you so much, Gaitley. It’s truly an honor to be your first guest. When you came to me with this idea, I was so touched. It means a lot to be here, and I’m always honored to be in your company. We’ve done a lot together over the years!

Gaitley:
Yes, we have! I’d love to start by hearing what your day has been like today—or your week. I know there’s always something new happening at the EOC. And then, if it’s okay, I want to take a step back and talk about how the seven-year-old Irma became the Irma who is here with me today.

Irma:
Well, today started off very full. I’m always grateful when I wake up in the morning and know that I’m doing something I love with all my heart. Today, we launched a new program—our Food Truck for Food initiative. It’s a program for seniors, age 60 and over, where we deliver food boxes directly to them. This was our very first day, and it was incredible to see the turnout. I’m very thankful.

Gaitley:
A big shout-out to Long Island Cares for their support! And of course, to all the organizations and donors that help the Glen Cove EOC offer not just food, but programs, training, and employment support for kids and families. I know you do so much more than feed people—you uplift them.

I felt bad that I couldn’t be there this morning, but I saw the photos and updates. And Irma, in everything you do—whether it’s running a board meeting, working with seniors, or greeting young people—you bring heart. People can feel that. That’s why your board steps up. That’s why the community supports you.

Tell us more about what’s happening at the EOC, especially with the youth.

Irma:
Of course. So, the EOC is a nonprofit organization that’s been in existence for over 50 years. I started there 16 years ago—it was only supposed to be for a few months, and, well… here I am.

We focus on assisting people—not helping, assisting—with everyday challenges, whether that’s through youth programs, senior services, or our summer program. For example, a few years ago, one of the young girls in our program said, “College isn’t for me.” But after spending time with us, visiting campuses, and being mentored—she joined the Army. I’m so proud of her. I love them like they’re my own kids.

Last year, we had four seniors graduate and go to college. This year, we have five—all graduating with honors and heading to college.

Gaitley:
That’s incredible! I’ve heard from so many of those students how much it meant to visit colleges in person. It really opened their eyes to what’s possible. And these aren’t just local schools, right?

Irma:
Right. We do two college tours every year—summer and winter. Five days, all expenses paid, thanks to donations. We take five students each time, though I always find a way to squeeze in one more. We stay in hotels, visit top schools, and let them see what the future could hold.

Gaitley:
That kind of exposure can change lives. It’s like planting a seed of hope. You’ve built quite a legacy, Irma. But I want to go back to that little girl you were. Where were you at seven?

Irma:
I was in Haiti. I came to the U.S. when I was 18. My parents—both gone now—were amazing. My mother was a nurse, my father a lawyer. They poured love into our family, and I always wanted to be the kind of mother they modeled. I think I’ve succeeded—my daughter just graduated from Berkeley Law School!

Gaitley:
You must be so proud. What a journey. And I love that the word I keep hearing from you is “love.” You serve with love. You parent with love. You lead with love.

Irma:
Absolutely. I believe that when you give from the heart, it makes a difference. Even just a kind word or a hug—those things matter.

Gaitley:
They really do. And I’ve seen firsthand how you empower people—from seniors to young people. In today’s world, where there’s a rise in hate and antisemitism, your work is more important than ever.

Irma:
Thank you. I talk to the kids every day. I make it my mission to let them know they’re heard. We host workshops, especially around bullying and mental health. We bring in professionals. I want our youth to feel safe, valued, and supported.

Gaitley:
That’s so powerful. You’re preparing them to stand up—to be upstanders. You’re breaking stigma and building community. That’s what this podcast is about—many voices, one community.

Irma:
Exactly. When we recognize our differences as strengths, not divisions, that’s when real change happens.

Gaitley:
Before we wrap up, can you share one of your most favorite moments at Glen Cove EOC?

Irma:
It has to be the graduation last year. Five students, all moving on to college. Seeing their joy, their pride—and knowing EOC played a role in that—it was surreal. That moment stays with me.

Gaitley:
I remember it well. It was an honor to witness. Before we sign off, is there anyone you’d like to thank?

Irma:
Yes—Mr. Wate from the Housing Authority. Without him, EOC wouldn’t be where it is today. His support made so much possible, and I want to make sure he knows how deeply grateful I am.

Gaitley:
Beautifully said. Thank you again, Irma, for being my very first guest on Many Voices, One Community. You are a gift to Glen Cove, to Long Island, and to everyone lucky enough to know you.

I’m Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews. Thank you for listening to Many Voices, One Community, where we share stories that unite us across Long Island—and beyond.

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