Meet the 2021 ABLE Team Leaders !!




Christina Carissimo (she/they), AmeriCorps ABLE Team Leader


Christina received a Master of Music Education degree from SUNY Fredonia in 2021. They have worked as a graduate assistant researching LGBTQ issues in education, and as music teacher specializing in ages birth through nine. This is Christina’s second term of AmeriCorps ABLE service. Christina enjoys writing music, painting, and training her dog to become a volunteer therapy animal.During her time at MAP, she will facilitate the MAP Youth Program, empowering young leaders through food justice education and community engagement.







Jaz Houston (she/her) Able Team leader



Jaz is a Syracuse Native who came to Buffalo to attend school At Suny Buffalo State. After receiving her bachelor's degree in criminal justice, Jaz dedicated two years of service to the educational non-profit City year. During her time of service with City year she was able to work with the youth of buffalo, she led small group instruction with students to help improve their math and ELA scores all while maintaining a near peer relationship with students. Jaz has a huge passion for youth advocacy, mentorship , and restorative justice. Now partnered with Map through the Able program, Jaz is excited to bring forth her knowledge and experience as well as learn and grow with the Map youth and team as a whole. Some hobbies that Jaz loves to partake in consist of trying new foods, fashion , and music. During her free time Jaz Manages an Artist and loves to travel.




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