Gary P. Jenkins
Author of Never Give Up: A Memoir of Resilience, Purpose, and Becoming the Change
Meet Gary P. Jenkins
A transformational leader whose journey from Brooklyn to the boardroom has touched countless lives. With more than three decades of public service and a voice for justice, dignity, and unwavering purpose, Gary shares his remarkable story in 'Never Give Up.'
Gary P. Jenkins currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer at Urban Pathways, a leading New York City nonprofit serving unhoused and marginalized New Yorkers. A 30-year veteran of public service, Gary previously served as Commissioner of the NYC Department of Social Services, overseeing the largest local social services agency in the nation, with an operating budget of $13 billion and nearly 15,000 staff.
From his beginnings as a frontline worker at HRA to the city’s highest leadership circles, Gary has never lost touch with the humanity of service. A proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and a devoted husband and father, he is also Chair of Metropolitan College of New York. Gary holds a master’s in public administration and an honorary doctorate in humane letters. His story is one of legacy, leadership, and love.
Never Give Up: A Memoir of Resilience, Purpose, and Becoming the Change
From Brooklyn to leadership—rising so others may rise.
Never Give Up is Gary’s deeply personal and powerful memoir—a story of resilience, purpose, legacy, and leadership in the face of adversity. It’s a message to every dreamer, advocate, and public servant: your story matters, and it’s not over yet.
In Never Give Up, Gary P. Jenkins invites us into his extraordinary journey—from a young Black boy growing up in Brooklyn, navigating the weight of grief and poverty, to becoming Commissioner of the largest social service agency in the nation, overseeing a $13 billion budget and a workforce of nearly 15,000.
But this is more than a story of titles and triumph. It is a testament to grit, grace, and the power of staying rooted in love. As the former Commissioner of the NYC Department of Social Services and current Chief Administrative Officer of Urban Pathways, Gary has not only led through crisis—he has led with character.
This memoir is not just about one man’s rise. It is a mirror for anyone who has ever been told they were not enough. It is a blueprint for those determined to lead with purpose, and it is a prayer for a more compassionate world.
Gary’s 30+ year journey from frontline worker to citywide Commissioner is told with vulnerability, dignity, and undeniable courage. His story speaks to every city worker, every youth with a dream, every leader at a crossroads, and every heart that refuses to quit.
Key Themes & Topics
Resilience & Transformation
Leadership with Heart
Navigating Race & Identity in Service
Mentorship & Brotherhood
Public Service & Social Justice
Equity
Black male vulnerability and strength
Legacy, purpose, and perseverance
Advance Praise
“Gary P. Jenkins reminds us that grace and grit can coexist…”
— Rev. A. R. Bernard
“A brilliant work of truth and testimony…”
— Dr. Charles J. Gibbs
Stay Connected
Also by SWEET Institute Publishing
“A courageous, purpose-driven man who has never lost his humanity…”
— Hon. Edolphus Towns
Speaking & Events
Gary is available for keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops on leadership, resilience, public service, and community transformation.