SYLVIA RUTHERFORD – Executive Director

Sylvia is thrilled to be the next Executive Director of NYCMGB. Though Sylvia grew up in California, she has spent her adult life living in NYC and has chosen to raise her family here. Working in the nonprofit world has always been a calling for Sylvia, and she brings with her fifteen years of experience working in the finance and education sectors in addition to the nonprofit world. Sylvia is a mother to five little ones and feels very close to NYCMGB’s mission to serve mothers and families in need.

AVIVA LOCKSHIN – Program Director and Board Member

Aviva Lauren Lockshin is a native New Yorker and proud mama of two adorable little girls. In addition to her work as a graduate student and college instructor, Aviva loves dedicating her time to helping other mamas. She is the primary donations coordinator for NYC Mammas Give Back, and helps ensure that every item donated finds a loving new home with a child who needs it. 

ALLISON STONE – Co-Founder & Board Member

Allison is a native New Yorker who loves living in the City, and has always had a desire to give back to her community. When she met Shana, she was excited that she had found a way—one that was close to her heart as a new parent. Allison brings to NYCMGB more than a good heart; she brings years of experience in advertising and most recently, in the catering business.

SARA RAISNER – Founding Board Member and Board Secretary

Sara is a mom and lifelong New Yorker whose initial involvement with NYCGB was picking up some of our very first donations in her car. She quickly became part of our nuclear team. By day, Sara is a full-time securities litigation and enforcement attorney. She brings that same focus and ethic of excellence to NYCMGB to help propel us forward and upward.

CAROLINE HARMON WERNER – Board Member

Caroline is a mother of two who is passionate about New York City. She knows that raising children here can be both rewarding and hard, and loves putting her skills to use as the NYCMGB Program Manager. Caroline has a law degree and is an active participant in the New York City visual arts community.

SHANA RUBIN, LMHC – Founder & Advisor

Shana was a new mom with a 3-month-old son when she saw that pregnant woman on the street and wanted to help. She knew how difficult the process was and wanted to see if there was some way that she could help. As a psychotherapist who has been working in the mental health/social work field for over 15 years, most of her work has been helping women with all levels of trauma to form support systems and gain resources that are a vital part of their resilience.