We’re pleased to announce expanded service coverage, bringing weekly food boxes and essential support to more families in our community.
Aug 20, 2026
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Futures Essentials provides food, clothing, and home essentials to families in crisis, building stability, dignity, and long-term resilience.
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Yael Zola is the founder and Executive Director of Future Essentials, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and empowering individuals by connecting them with essential resources in healthcare, employment, and financial literacy. With a strong background in human resources, operations, and mental health advocacy, Yael brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to her work, striving to bridge the gap between individuals in need and the resources available to them.
Yael’s journey toward launching Future Essentials was driven by both professional expertise and personal experience. Her extensive career in human resources and workforce development, spanning over eight years, provided her with firsthand insight into the barriers individuals face in securing stable employment, accessing benefits, and navigating financial literacy. Throughout her tenure in HR leadership roles across healthcare and corporate sectors, she witnessed the systemic challenges that many individuals—particularly those from marginalized communities—face in securing stability and growth in their professional and personal lives.
In addition to her professional background, Yael’s personal struggles with postpartum depression played a pivotal role in shaping her mission. Through her own mental health journey, she recognized the critical need for accessible support systems and resources for individuals facing similar challenges. This realization became a driving force behind Future Essentials, a nonprofit that ensures individuals—especially those in financial distress, employment uncertainty, and mental health crises—can access the tools, education, and advocacy they need to thrive.
Yael’s strategic vision and empathetic leadership continue to drive Future Essentials as a beacon of empowerment and advocacy. Through her work, she remains committed to helping individuals regain control of their futures, fostering independence, and building a more informed and supported community.
Jarret Serate is a dynamic leader and advocate for minority communities, bringing a wealth of lived experience and professional expertise to his role as Chairman of the Board at Future Essential. As an African American and Hispanic man who grew up in the Bronx, Jarret has firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by underrepresented communities. His upbringing in a household dedicated to service—his father a devoted pastor and his mother a dedicated police officer—instilled in him a strong sense of duty, integrity, and the importance of giving back.
Before stepping into leadership roles in advocacy and community development, Jarret worked for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), where he gained a deep appreciation for the essential services that keep New York running. His work allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life, further strengthening his commitment to equity and accessibility.
Jarret’s deep-rooted connections across various communities make him a pivotal member of the Future Essential board. His ability to bridge gaps between policymakers, grassroots organizations, and everyday citizens ensures that the board remains focused on actionable solutions for economic empowerment, social justice, and sustainable development. With a passion for fostering opportunity and a vision for a more inclusive future, Jarret Serate continues to champion initiatives that uplift and empower those who need it most.
Udel has devoted her life to supporting individuals facing mental health challenges, disabilities, and intellectual differences. From an early age, she engaged with various organizations to uplift those in need, later working in special education and coaching individuals with diverse abilities. As a board member of Supportive Futures Foundation, Udel continues to champion inclusivity and empowerment, driven by a deep passion for making the world a brighter, more compassionate place.
With over a decade of experience in the sector, Emilia Tavarez is a prominent professional in insurance and personal finance. Her training as a Certified Personal Finance Coach enables her to approach each case from a comprehensive perspective, merging technical knowledge with personal development strategies. Through coaching, mentoring, and workshops designed to empower individuals and families, she strives to facilitate effective economic resource management and future financial planning.
As a businesswoman and founder of Inclusive Insurance Agency Inc., Emilia promotes inclusion and financial education within her community. In her role as an Insurance Advisor, she offers personalized solutions meticulously tailored to the specific needs of each client, ensuring high-quality service.
Her mission is to provide effective tools that enhance access to quality financial services, contributing to the well-being and economic security of her clients.
Throughout her career, she has helped over 2,000 satisfied clients, establishing herself as a trusted figure in the sector. Additionally, she is the founder of Emilia Tavarez LLC, Power of Transformation LLC, and Embrace Hosting Experiences, reflecting her commitment to personal and professional growth in multiple areas.
