As Black History Month comes to a close, we celebrate the ongoing impact of trailblazers whose legacies continue to inspire new generations. At Triple C Housing, we are honored to recognize one of our own, Lori Harris, a dedicated Services Coordinator whose work embodies the values of care, community, and choice. Lori’s commitment to helping others is more than a career—it’s a legacy passed down from her grandmother, Ophelia DeVore, known to her family as “Grandma O”.
From advocating for safe, stable housing to ensuring individuals receive the support they need, Lori’s passion for service is evident in all she does. She carries forward the spirit of kindness, respect, and advocacy in her work, every day–instilled in her by her grandmother, a woman who reshaped industries, challenged injustice, and created opportunities for those who had long been overlooked.
A Trailblazer for Equity and Inclusion
Ophelia DeVore was a pioneer in fashion, media, and civil rights. As the first African American model in the United States, she broke barriers in an industry that had historically excluded people of color. Recognizing the lack of opportunities for Black models, DeVore first opened a charm school in Harlem, where she taught young Black men and women the skills needed to navigate the fashion industry with confidence and poise. Building upon this foundation, she later established the Grace Del Marco Modeling Agency—one of the first modeling agencies in America to represent Black models and help change how the media portrayed Black beauty, talent, and excellence. The agency became a launching pad for many renowned figures, including Cicely Tyson, Diahann Carroll, and Richard Roundtree. Through these ventures, she championed Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) long before these principles were widely acknowledged.
But DeVore’s impact extended beyond modeling—she was a dedicated businesswoman, media pioneer, and civil rights advocate. Her work earned recognition from leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and she met with several U.S. Presidents, including Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush.
Ophelia DeVore’s story is a reminder that representation matters—that when people see themselves in spaces where they were once excluded, it opens the door for future generations. At Triple C Housing, we are committed to creating these opportunities every day, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, feels valued, supported, and empowered.
A Legacy That Lives On Through Service
Ophelia DeVore’s commitment to advocacy and empowerment was more than professional—it was personal. It’s a spirit that lives on in Lori Harris, who continues to uplift others in her role at Triple C Housing.
Lori’s work is a modern reflection of her grandmother’s dedication to creating opportunities and safe spaces. Whether she’s helping individuals secure stable housing or connecting them with supportive services, Lori brings the same compassion, determination, and belief in human dignity that her grandmother championed throughout her life. The DNA of empowerment runs deep in her, and through her, Ophelia DeVore’s legacy continues to change lives.
Continuing the Work
While we honor trailblazers like Ophelia DeVore, we recognize that Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) remain ongoing pursuits. Inspired by her legacy, Lori Harris and the entire team at Triple C Housing remain dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating pathways for individuals and families in need.
As we move beyond Black History Month, let’s carry forward these lessons—uplifting voices, advocating for change, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to build a brighter future.
About Triple C Housing, Inc.
Triple C Housing, Inc. (Triple C) is a 501c3 non-profit community housing development organization (CHDO) focused on expanding affordable housing opportunities complimented by supportive services to individuals, families and veterans impacted by a disability, who are experiencing homelessness or long term hospitalization. Our objectives are to empower individuals and families to improve their quality of life, promote self-sufficiency, and engage in meaningful, gainful relationships, careers, educational advancement opportunities and wellness activities while contributing to their neighborhoods and communities.
Media Contact
Leslie Stivale
President / CEO
Triple C Housing, Inc.
(732) 658-6636 ext. 211
lstivale@triplechousing.org
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