Employee Spotlight: Jasmine Handy, Mario D’Amato and Jocelyn Borrell

Working at the Land Bank has opened opportunities for many young people to gain real-world work experience and support a mission that helps our community. 

We recently sat down with three new employees, Jocelyn Borrell, Jasmine Handy and Mario D’Amato, to talk about their roles at the Land Bank and why the work is beneficial and rewarding to them. 

What initially attracted you to the Land Bank?

Jocelyn: I was drawn to the Mahoning County Land Bank the moment I delved into its objectives and mission. Observing the pervasive issue of blight in the community since my relocation here, I felt a deep-seated desire to contribute towards its resolution. Recognizing the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, I expressed my interest in interning with the Land Bank. As a geology major with a GIS minor at YSU, I find the environmental remediation and monitoring aspects of the job closely aligned with my academic pursuits.

Jasmine: I currently serve as a reservist at the Air Reserve Base and recently returned from deployment. I was searching for a part-time position that could accommodate my schedule and was supportive of my military commitments.

Tell us what sparked your interest in employment here.

Mario: I like the mission the Land Bank is trying to achieve. I have lived in Youngstown my whole life and understand the abandoned property situation. It is nice to be a part of a team that works on cleaning up the area and making it a more appealing place to live.

Jasmine: As a lifelong resident of Youngstown, I’ve witnessed the unfortunate increase in vacant homes and abandoned businesses within our community over the years. However, it was encouraging to observe the collaboration between local agencies and organizations like the Land Bank, working together to enhance the appeal of vacant lots and properties, aiming to uplift our community. When I was made aware of the opening for a part-time position, I thought “what a great opportunity to be involved in the remarkable work being done to revitalize and improve my community.”

Briefly describe your work with the Land Bank.

Mario: My work is primarily as a field inspector. I visit abandoned homes and document the demolition process via pictures from start to finish. 

Jocelyn: In my role as a property inspector, I am responsible for conducting a range of inspections, including initial, pre- and post-abatement, demolition and post-demolition, as well as assessments of greened properties. Additionally, I willingly take on various tasks as needed, such as assisting with administrative duties in the office or handling external assignments like fence repairs and errands. 

Tell us about something you are proud of from your work at the Land Bank or a goal you hope to achieve. 

Jasmine: During my time at the Land Bank, I’ve played a role in inspecting and overseeing the demolition of hundreds of structures. I believe these efforts have notably reduced blight and cultivated more green spaces in my community. I take pride in being a part of this impactful work.

Mario: I am proud that I can make a difference in my community by helping neighborhoods clean up eyesore houses and relieving the neighbors of their burdens. 

Jocelyn: Looking ahead, I aspire to leverage my GIS and geologic expertise to assume greater responsibilities within my role, enabling me to contribute more comprehensively to the Land Bank’s objectives. I take pride in the continuous application of my skills, aiming to deepen my involvement in the entirety of the Land Bank’s initiatives.