05/29/2026
Carlos Ayala took the helm of the PSS Harlem Center last December. At age 74, he lets members know he's one of them and his goal is to keep a happy and safe environment -- to make it a sanctuary.
At first the Marine gunnery sergeant with two tours in Vietnam seemed stern to the members, but they've figured out he's a softie. They call him a "Man of Action."
"If there's a problem and I can't fix it, I know who can," he says.
Carlos was working as a business developer with FEDCAP when he came to know of PSS, which was a client. He climbed 20 flights of stairs at a different PSS center to interview for the job. Over the years he's run his own radio and TV repair business, received a degree as a deacon, and traveled the world.
He'd be bored if he stayed home, he says, and demonstrates there's a role for all ages. He takes pride in having passed the required NYC Firefighters and Food Handlers' licensing exams with flying colors on his first attempt.
Carlos welcomes volunteers to join him at the center.
