In Recognition of Sunnyside Community Services

IN RECOGNITION OF SUNNYSIDE COMMUNITY SERVICES -- (Extensions of Remarks - November 18, 2004)

Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to offer my congratulations to the Sunnyside Community Services Center on its 30th anniversary.

The residents of New York's 12th Congressional District have been enriched by this institution's outstanding example of community cooperation, which provides valuable social, recreational, and educational services to the seniors and families of Western Queens. Thanks to the exemplary board, staff, and volunteer base of the Sunnyside Community Services Center, this once small organization that started in a church basement has blossomed, and has grown to provide an array of integrated activities and programs to over 12,000 residents, annually.

The center offers these services to ensure that members have the opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of community life, while maintaining their independence and healthy lifestyle. This institution has also become a local economic engine, employing 90 percent of its staff from within the Queens community. The staff runs caregiver programs for frail elderly and homebound seniors, after school programs and camps for elementary and middle-school children, and a variety of educational, social, and recreational activities for active adults.

Over the past 30 years, Sunnyside Community Services Center has expanded its services even further to help meet the challenges faced by emerging immigrant and youth populations that reside in the area today. Their work has reached a significant number of residents of all backgrounds and ages and has allowed them to enjoy an enhanced and comfortable lifestyle.

Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 30th anniversary of the Sunnyside Community Services Center, and join with my colleagues in the House of Representatives to recognize the organization's outstanding service and dedication in addressing the needs of the Western Queens community.