A Comprehensive Response to the Substance Use Crisis

Julien Scott currently serves as the Bronx Operations Manager at NYC Parks, where he started as an analyst in 2013. He oversees data collection and analysis at the borough level, and helps the agency to develop and implement solutions to operational challenges. It’s in this role that he witnessed firsthand the dramatic increase in the level of public drug use and discarded syringes in South Bronx parks over the last few years. He is now working closely with senior agency leadership, maintenance staff, and a broad coalition of outside partners to implement a comprehensive plan to address these issues.

Prior to joining NYC Parks, with an undergraduate degree in graphic communications, Julien worked in magazine publishing in New York and Los Angeles, and as a journalist in Mexico City. Deciding to pursue a second career in public service, he completed graduate degrees in sustainable development and public policy. This focus afforded him the opportunity to join NYC government at an agency that is vital to creating a more resilient and livable city for all New Yorkers.

Lauren Kiefert is a Program Manager for the National Recreation and Park Association. Lauren joined NRPA in January 2019 and supports the organization’s youth development, mentoring and mental health portfolio. Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge to NRPA, having both educational and professional experience in the public health field. Prior to joining the association, she completed her Master of Public Health degree from George Washington University, with a focus on health promotion and prevention efforts. Lauren has also been involved in substance use prevention coalitions, working with local youth and community stakeholders to address prevention, education, and awareness efforts.

Kelly is the Programming  Special Events Coordinator for the City of Elizabethton, Tennessee. She has worked in the Parks and Recreation field for 20 years, recently moving over to her role of planning in 2018. Her heart is in the community and its residents in Elizabethton and making Elizabethton a safe and healthy community to live, work and play. Kelly has 4 children ranging from 8-24 years old. In her free time she enjoys watching her kids on the court, field and stage with their extracurricular activities, as well as volleyball and biking, herself.  

Patricia L. Roberts (Pattie) has been employed with the City of Port St. Lucie Floridas Parks  Recreation Department since 2008. As such, she has served in many positions, including the most recent promotion to Deputy Director in 2016. Pattie is an advocate for mental health services as they integrate and connect the public to the plethora of recreation programming that departments offer.