Team IEM Puerto Rico CDBG 50th Anniversary Spotlights: Aynette Carrión
Aynette Carrión, Program Manager, IEM Puerto Rico
With over 14 years of experience in grant management and disaster recovery, Aynette joined Team IEM in 2019 to support our on-island CDBG-DR-funded programs. Aynette’s career at IEM Puerto Rico has been a testament and a living example of what adaptability and workplace resilience mean. Leveraging skills gained as a former Job Corp at FEMA and from other roles at IEM, Aynette is a critical team player, working alongside our clients to design innovative strategies that allow us to reach more Puerto Ricans effectively.
Dive into Aynette’s history and experience for insights into her career and contributions to CDBG.
What has your role been in CDBG programs in Puerto Rico?
My journey with CDBG is a trajectory of growth, adaptability, and leadership. Each step of the way, IEM Puerto Rico has contributed significantly to my professional growth and, consequently, my ability to positively contribute and impact the communities I serve across the island. From starting on Puerto Rico’s Repair, Reconstruction, or Relocation (R3) Program in 2019 as a Case Manager to overseeing the Community Outreach for the Single-Family Housing Mitigation Program to now serving as a Program Manager, I am grateful for the outstanding support and mentorship received from our leadership team at IEM.
How have you seen communities impacted by CDBG programs in Puerto Rico?
My experience working on various CDBG programs, combined with my lived experience, gives me a unique perspective and appreciation for CDBG’s impact on communities across the island that, to this day, continue to recover from back-to-back hurricanes, earthquakes, and other disasters. CDBG-DR funds enabled infrastructure repairs, housing redevelopment, and investments in resilience that help mitigate future risks. It is gratifying to observe the progression of applications from the initial submission, to witness the astonishment on applicants’ faces as they accept awards, and to realize that the previously unattainable funding is now a reality due to CDBG resources. It is rewarding to receive heartfelt gratitude from applicants as they are presented with keys to their new homes. These experiences reinforce my pride in being a part of this community-focused organization.
What challenges does CDBG currently face?
One of the most prominent challenges facing CDBG today is sustainability. Many CDBG-funded projects depend on ongoing funding to maintain their benefits, and once initial grants are exhausted, communities often struggle to secure additional resources. This reliance on continuous funding can make it difficult to sustain long-term community impact and ensure the durability of initial investments. Recognizing this barrier, IEM works closely with our customers to diversify funding sources to maximize all possible resources and build local capacity to increase the chances of long-term success.
How do you think CDBG will evolve in the next decade in Puerto Rico?
In the next decade, CDBG programs in Puerto Rico will become even more focused on resilience and sustainability. I think we will see an increased emphasis on climate adaptation and disaster preparedness, with more funding for projects that strengthen infrastructure and communities against future disasters. Additionally, efforts to streamline the distribution of funds and reduce administrative hurdles may improve access to CDBG resources. Innovations in data collection and technology could also help target funding more effectively.
What recommendations do you have for communities seeking CDBG-DR/MIT funding?
Upgrading government agencies’ communication systems to integrate with federal disaster assistance programs could greatly enhance the applicant’s experience. By increasing system interoperability, administrative barriers could be lowered, and key information more easily exchanged between federal agencies likely accelerating program timelines.
