BROOKLYN, NY — Marie “Driven” Theodore, Haitian American entrepreneur and public relations executive, has been appointed Housing and Block Associations Committee Chair for New York City’s Community Board 17.
Theodore’s first initiatives will focus on tenant education, housing advocacy, and strengthening neighborhood block associations.
Theodore, co-founder of Brooklyn-based Playbook MG, a communications firm specializing in branding and media strategy, said she aims to bridge gaps between residents and city agencies.
“Education is one of the strongest tools we have,” she said. “I look forward to hosting events that inform residents about tenant protections, housing quality, and how they can advocate for themselves and their families.”
In her first months on the board, Theodore plans workshops to help residents review rent histories, understand lease clauses, and navigate one-shot housing assistance programs.
She recounted uncovering a rent history error where a tenant’s rent had been incorrectly increased by $700 after a previous occupant moved out. She submitted the discrepancy to the rental office for review.
Theodore said her focus extends to sensitive housing issues, such as eviction notices.
She opposes posting eviction letters on doors, noting the humiliation it causes.
“Nobody knows anybody’s situation,” she said. “I don’t want anyone to have to feel like they’re less than because they got an eviction letter on the door.”
She will operate her community programming from Room43 Event Space, a hub she co-founded with her sister Cindy Theodore, providing workshops and youth activities, including a boxing class in partnership with the 67th Precinct’s God Squad.
Theodore draws on her career in public relations, where she advocated for Caribbean artists on national platforms, to inform her civic work
“This role is perfect because I’m advocating for people who can’t be seen or heard,” she said. “I still have to explain things in a way that makes life easier for people who need help.”
The appointment places Theodore at the forefront of community-led housing education in East Flatbush, Remsen Village, Farragut, and surrounding neighborhoods, reflecting a growing trend of professionals translating media and advocacy experience into public service.