Meet Cleopatra Matos, 2025 Volunteer Rookie of the Year
Every year, new volunteers join the Open House New York community with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a desire to make a difference. This year, one volunteer stood out for going above and beyond from the very beginning, and we are excited to honor them as our Rookie of the Year Volunteer. Meet Cleopatra Matos, our 2025 honoree.
I'm an Open House New Yorker because...
I love the work that Open House New York does. Their mission to bring transparency to places once closed off and renew awareness to places that had been forgotten is simply inspiring and something I am wholeheartedly proud to be a part of.
How did you learn about Open House New York?
I came across OHNY by accident. I’m a real estate agent, and so I was googling open houses in NYC, and OHNY popped up. I did more research and spoke with a close friend who was more knowledgeable about non-profit organizations, and I decided that volunteering for them is interesting.
What did you like best about volunteering during OHNY Weekend?
I definitely liked discovering hidden gems in the borough I grew up in (BX baby). There are so many areas that were brought to my attention, and I was able to learn the history of. I love being able to share these places with others and actually know the history behind them.
What's your favorite place in New York City?
My favorite place would have to be Astor Place in Manhattan. I spent a lot of time there as a teen, so I have a lot of fond memories.
Why should people volunteer with OHNY?
If you enjoy meeting people from all over, beautiful historical architecture, and being a part of a community that embraces and shares the beauty that is New York City, then OHNY is definitely a great place to be as a volunteer.