Our Mission
A student-led organization advocating for zoning reform to address New York City's housing crisis
Our Mission
Civic Reset is a student-led nonprofit organization founded in 2025 and based in Queens, New York City. We advocate for comprehensive zoning reform to address NYC's unprecedented housing crisis through evidence-based policy solutions and community-driven advocacy. Our mission is to create more equitable, affordable housing opportunities by promoting higher-density, mixed-use developments that serve all New Yorkers.
As a student-led organization, we bring new insights and innovative approaches to these complex challenges. We aim to unite New Yorkers by forming a platform that merges academic research with grassroots advocacy, real solutions, and your story.
Our approach focuses on three key areas: advocating for zoning reform that enables higher-density housing near transit hubs, promoting mixed-use development that creates vibrant neighborhoods, and pushing for inclusionary policies that ensure affordable housing remains accessible to all income levels. We conduct community outreach, publish policy analysis on our Substack blog, and engage with residents through interviews to amplify the voices of those most affected by the housing crisis.
Zoning Reform Advocacy
Promoting policy changes that enable higher-density, mixed-use developments to increase housing supply and affordability across NYC.
Community Engagement
Conducting interviews with NYC residents to document how housing challenges affect real people and communities.
Research & Analysis
Publishing evidence-based articles and policy analysis to educate the public about urban planning solutions.
"New York City's housing crisis demands fresh thinking and bold action. As students, we see the impact of outdated zoning laws on our generation's ability to live and work in the city we love. Civic Reset exists to bridge the gap between academic research and grassroots advocacy, ensuring that evidence-based solutions reach the policymakers who can implement real change."— Farid Sofiyev, Founder
Meet Our Team
Farid Sofiyev
Founder & President
Student at Baruch College studying Finance and Real Estate. Passionate about housing advocacy and urban policy reform.
Angelo Mazza
Co-Founder & Vice President
Student at Baruch College studying Finance and Real Estate. Dedicated to community engagement and zoning reform initiatives.