J 1132: Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center in Cambria Heights, Queens

 Senate Resolution No. 1132 BY: Senator COMRIE COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center in Cambria Heights, Queens WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor and recognize those esteemed institutions that have demonstrated an enduring commitment to enhancing the lives of New York State's citizens, particularly its senior residents; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center to be celebrated at its Annual Gala on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Antun's in Queens Village, New York; and WHEREAS, In 1973, the members of the Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., responding to a growing need for recreational, educational, and cultural programs for older adults, envisioned and established a senior citizens center to serve the Cambria Heights community; and WHEREAS, This visionary initiative led to the creation of the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center, a beacon of support and empowerment for older adults, providing a wide range of services in a warm, family-oriented environment; and WHEREAS, In December 1996, the organization acquired a permanent facility located at the corner of Linden Boulevard and 220th Street; a decade later, in November 2006, the Center officially began operations at this new site, continuing its mission with renewed strength and commitment; and WHEREAS, The Center's primary objective is to enable senior citizens to maintain their independence and quality of life by offering nutritious daily meals, educational workshops, recreational activities, and access to vital information and services; these efforts are supported through collaborations with City, State, and private agencies, including the Fire Department, Police Department, Department of Health, and the Social Security Administration; and WHEREAS, The Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center, Inc. has become a trusted multi-purpose service provider, promoting the physical, emotional, and social well-being of seniors through comprehensive programs that include health education, wellness activities, and resource navigation; and WHEREAS, In fulfilling its mission, the Center not only serves its senior members but also enriches the broader community by promoting the value, experience, and continued contributions of its elder residents; and WHEREAS, Over the past 50 years, the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center has remained steadfast in its dedication to uplifting and supporting older adults, standing as a model of community service and an embodiment of the fraternal ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center in Cambria Heights, Queens, and to recognize the invaluable contributions it has made to the lives of senior citizens and to the fabric of the community; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center, Inc.