An interview with AIRnyc CEO, Lola Simpson

Lola Simpson is the CEO of AIRnyc, taking the reins from AIRnyc’s Founder Shoshanah Brown in 2022. Lola’s distinguished career includes executive leadership roles overseeing social justice and health reform initiatives for New York City and New York State government agencies and with nonprofit organizations. You can learn more about Ms. Simpson’s background here. (Link to bio on website)

What drew you to AIRnyc and the nonprofit sector after such a long and successful career working primarily in and with government?

The opportunity to give back to the community, and especially to support working class immigrant communities, really drew me to AIRnyc’s mission. Having grown up in NYC in a family of immigrants, I know the challenges that families face and how access to adequate healthcare can be difficult.  I am particularly proud of our work helping people with diabetes, which I’ve seen in my community my whole life.  And we’re moving the needle on healthcare costs by preventing, controlling and eliminating chronic diseases. That really speaks to me.

What has been most inspiring to you so far as AIRnyc’s CEO?

I have been completely blown away by our staff. Our Community Health Workers are incredible! They speak ten languages between them. Most of these professionals are originally from the communities we serve, so they understand the cultures and connect quickly and deeply with our clients, many of whom have experienced so many barriers to healthcare that they avoid dealing with that part of their lives. So, the challenge is great, but our staff are successful at gaining trust and getting clients to eat better, exercise more, adhere to medications and so much else. Our 43% reduction in ER visits speaks for itself.

What are you most excited about for AIRnyc’s future?

I’m most excited about helping even more children and families get the care and support they need. We’re growing in every way – expanding our asthma program for kids, strengthening our maternal health work by making doulas more accessible to moms who need extra support, and ensuring people with diabetes can stay healthier through better access to nutritious food.

There are so many challenges, but even more opportunities to make a real difference. The more we expand, the more we can break down barriers to care and help people live healthier lives. That’s what drives me every day.

What would you say to someone who is new to AIRnyc’s mission?

I always ask people, imagine what it would look like if you didn’t have the proper asthma inhaler for your child, or if you couldn’t afford to move to a home that is free of vermin and mold? What would that mean for your child’s health? For your peace of mind? Or think about going to the doctor, but they don’t speak your language. How would you make sure you’re getting the right medication or that they truly understand your symptoms? What if you couldn’t afford fresh fruits and vegetables for your kids or your elderly parents? So many of us are fortunate not to worry about these things, but for thousands of families, these are daily struggles. That’s where AIRnyc comes in. We bridge the gap between people and healthcare, safe housing, and healthy food they need. We don’t just connect people to services – we help them build healthier lives. And beyond that, our work reduces healthcare costs for everyone by preventing serious health issues before they start.