Southeast Queens elected officials, community based organizations and cultural institutions are collaborating on the 21st Annual Senior Appreciation Month that includes a wide range of events ranging from jazz concerts and senior line dancing to resource and health fairs, a Monte Carlo Game Night and a tour of the Queens Botanical Garden.
“Now in its 21st year, Senior Appreciation Month honors the invaluable, lifelong contributions seniors make to our shared communities. In addition to building community and fostering intergenerational connections, Senior Appreciation Month gives us an opportunity to share resources and information,” state Senator Leroy Comrie said. “This year’s theme, ‘Give them flowers while they can smell them,’ exemplifies our commitment to honoring older adults for their contributions to our neighborhood and society at large.”
Senior Appreciation Month kicked off on Sept. 8 at Roy Wilkins Gym in St. Albans.
“We cherish our elders and seniors in our community each day for the outstanding contributions they have made,” Congressman Gregory Meeks said. “As a token of our appreciation, I am delighted to join in the southeast Queens senior festivities in hosting my annual ‘Morning at the Movies’ on Oct. 3 at the Jamaica Multiplex Cinema.”
Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers is hosting a Senior Appreciation Luncheon at the Idlewild Center in Springfield Gardens on Sept. 25.
“It is such an honor to once again take part in a month-long celebration of our amazing seniors for their rich contributions to our community,” Brooks-Powers said. “Our seniors are the lifeblood of our Queens community and continue to serve as mentors, experts and invaluable sources of knowledge. It is on their shoulders that my colleagues and I stand on as we serve Queens.”
Speaker Adrienne Adams noted that the City Council invested $30 million in older adult services to support their health and well-being. She is presenting the Fuschia & Gold Sneaker Ball at Rochdale Village Park on Sept. 29.
“Our seniors are the jewels of our community whose sacrifices and contributions paved the way for our success today,” Adams said. “I encourage all seniors in our community to take part in the festivities during this year’s Senior Appreciation Month.”
Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman is holding a Senior Informational Session on Oct. 3 or 4 at the ICNA Muslim Center at 166-26 89th Ave.
“Our seniors have laid the foundation to unify and create a strong community,” Hyndman said. “Through their continued guidance and life lessons it will transfer to our younger generations. The wisdom provided should be respected, as their life experiences afforded us essential liberties that we all enjoy today. Celebrating our seniors is well deserved and a fitting opportunity for us to honor those who endured the obstacles of life before us.”
Southeast Queens seniors can contact their elected officials district offices for more information or to RSVP.
“Queens seniors have certainly experienced a lot in their lives, including many difficulties that have come with the COVID-19 pandemic,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said. “But with experience comes great wisdom and knowledge, which thankfully our seniors are willing to share with younger generations. I salute our borough’s seniors and look forward to showing our gratitude to them during all the wonderful events that take place during Senior Appreciation Month.”
