Cessie Alfonso

Social Justice Activist Cecilia %22Cessie%22 Alfonso, c. 2018

Cessie Alfonso is a prominent social worker and activist known for her extensive work in the fields of criminal justice, mental health, and HIV/AIDS advocacy. She has dedicated her career to supporting marginalized communities and advocating for systemic changes within the criminal justice system.

Early Life and Education

Cessie Alfonso was born and raised in New York City. She pursued her higher education at Hunter College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She later obtained a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Columbia University School of Social Work.

Career

Alfonso began her career as a social worker in the 1980s, focusing on providing support to individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. She worked with various organizations to develop programs aimed at educating the public about the disease and providing care to those infected.

Criminal Justice Reform

Cessie Alfonso is widely recognized for her efforts in criminal justice reform. She has worked with numerous organizations to advocate for the rights of incarcerated individuals, particularly those with mental health issues. Alfonso has been instrumental in developing programs that provide mental health support to prisoners and work towards their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Mental Health Advocacy

In addition to her work in criminal justice, Alfonso has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness and support. She has worked to destigmatize mental health issues and promote access to mental health services, particularly for underserved communities. Her efforts have included public speaking, policy advocacy, and direct service provision.

Contributions to HIV/AIDS Advocacy

Throughout her career, Alfonso has remained committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS. She has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at preventing the spread of the disease and supporting those living with HIV/AIDS. Her work has included community outreach, education programs, and policy advocacy.

Awards and Recognition

Cessie Alfonso has received numerous awards for her contributions to social work and advocacy. Her work has been recognized by various organizations, including the National Association of Social Workers and the American Public Health Association.

Personal Life

Alfonso continues to reside in New York City, where she remains active in her advocacy work. She is also involved in mentoring the next generation of social workers and activists.

See Also

• Social work
• Criminal justice reform
• Mental health
• HIV/AIDS