United Adult Ministries hosted its annual gala on May 1 at Leonard’s Palazzo in Great Neck, celebrating over a century of service to older adults and marking the 50th anniversary of Flushing House, one of New York’s pioneering independent living residences for seniors.
The evening brought together residents, supporters, and community leaders for cocktails, dinner, and a heartfelt awards ceremony. Honorees were recognized for their dedication to uplifting older adults through ministry, legal advocacy, and civic leadership.
Reverend Dr. Linda F. Bell received the Older Adult Ministry Award. Speaking to attendees, Bell shared the deeply personal connection she has to Flushing House, where her 95-year-old mother, Frances Holcomb, currently resides.
“This place has been a blessing,” said Bell. “My family and I feel safe and supported, and I was moved to volunteer and become part of the Flushing House family myself. Tonight is really a celebration of that journey—what I call synchronicity: things falling into place in meaningful ways.”
Leadership in the Community Awards were presented to Judge Janice A. Taylor and to Paul Moskowitz of the Moskowitz Legal Group. Taylor, a retired judge and longtime advocate for seniors, described the award as a humbling experience.
“My parents lived at Flushing House, and I’ve seen firsthand the care and dignity they provide,” she said. “I’m honored they consider my community work meaningful.”
Moskowitz echoed the sentiment: “It’s an honor to represent and support such an outstanding institution. Flushing House stands for dignity, independence, and compassion.”
Rev. Douglas Kurtz, president of United Adult Ministries and CEO of Flushing House, emphasized the historic nature of the evening.
“This year marks our 50th anniversary at Flushing House and 108 years of United Adult Ministries serving older adults,” he said. “We’re a not-for-profit organization committed to helping seniors live independently, with support services like meals, housekeeping, and on-site healthcare.”
Kurtz noted recent faith-based programming, including a Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration and a Women’s Day service—both drawing over 100 attendees—as examples of how Flushing House continues to nurture both spirit and community.
A highlight of the evening was the promotion of the George Nussbaum Fund, an endowment that helps ensure no resident is ever forced to leave due to financial hardship. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Flushing House receives no state or federal funding and relies on contributions to maintain its mission.
“Our core values are compassion, dignity, and lifelong support,” said Chairperson Janet Allen-Spencer. “That’s what we celebrated tonight.”
The event underscored the vital role that Flushing House and United Adult Ministries play in providing older adults with a vibrant, secure, and dignified environment—a mission that has sustained them for more than a century.
