By Matthew Monks
“Today the real winners are the children and the seniors,” said Queens Borough President Helen Marshall. “I can't think of a better place for two of the most delicate members of our community.”The non-profit moved into its 25,000-square-foot facility at 21-12 30th Rd. in 1955. Since then the club has served generations of Queens children with after-school tutoring, arts and crafts groups, karate classes and soccer, swimming, basketball and flag football programs.The club serves 1,900 boys and girls ages 6 to 17, said Executive Director Tracie Vandina. About 35 percent of its members are from homes with an income below poverty level, she said. The club is a positive influence that encourages children to stay in school and keep away from gangs and drugs, she said.Membership costs $12 a year.”We never turn away a child who needs it,” Vandina said. “If they don't have the money, we run scholarship programs.”To ensure another 50 years of prosperity, the club has leased property in its parking lot at 21-0 30th St. for the Astoria Senior Residence.Residents moved into the 99-unit, 11-story building in March. Subsidized by the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal, the home is filled with seniors over age 62 who earn between $16,000 and $30,000 a year.Vandina said the club will launch inter-generational programs for seniors and youngsters to interact.Until then, it is looking to raise money for some upgrades, she said. The pool is 50 years old and the building needs cosmetic work and air conditioning.Reach reporter Matthew Monks by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 156.
