Senator Joseph Addabbo is set to host a series of important community events to serve the diverse needs of his constituents.
These events will range from helping older adults find employment to offering environmentally friendly ways to dispose of electronic waste and paint. They are part of Addabbo’s ongoing commitment to community service, environmental responsibility, and accessible constituent engagement.
The first event on the schedule is the Spring Electronic Waste Recycling Event, which will take place this Sunday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Forest Park Bandshell Parking Lot. This free public event is held in partnership with the Lower East Side Ecology Center, which will be on-site collecting a variety of old and broken electronics from residents.
For the first time ever, Addabbo’s Office will also be collecting used paint, thanks to support from PaintCare, a national product stewardship program. The addition of paint collection expands the scope of the recycling event. It provides the community with an even more convenient and responsible option for discarding household items that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
“When electronics and paint are not properly recycled, they can end up in our landfills, releasing harmful chemicals into the soil and water, which can be quite damaging to the environment and public health,” Addabbo said.
“By recycling your e-waste and paint, you help to clean up the environment and create a healthier planet now and for future generations. I understand that it can be difficult to know when and where to dispose of these items, which is why I hold this event twice a year at a central location in Forest Park, giving residents a convenient opportunity to responsibly dispose of their old electronics and paint right in their community.”
Accepted electronics include laptops, monitors, tablets, phones, TVs, video game consoles, printers, and many other peripherals. Items that will not be accepted include batteries, VHS tapes, household appliances, and any hazardous materials.
Paint products accepted include interior and exterior latex and oil-based paints, primers, stains, and varnishes, while industrial products like paint thinners, aerosol paints, and roof patch products will not be accepted.
Later in the month, Addabbo will host his annual free Senior Job Fair on Friday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Kew Gardens Community Center, located at 80-02 Kew Gardens Road.
The event, open to all job seekers aged 55 and older, is intended to help older adults either re-enter the workforce or find new employment opportunities that support financial independence and stability.
“This platform allows businesses to find dedicated and experienced workers,” Addabbo stated. “Every individual should have access to work in a workplace that values their abilities and work.”
The event is free for both attendees and vendors. Those planning to attend are encouraged to dress professionally and bring multiple copies of their résumé to share with potential employers. Businesses interested in participating as vendors should contact Sean McCabe, Deputy Chief of Staff, at 718-497-1630 or via email at smccabe@nysenate.gov.
In addition to these community events, Addabbo is also continuing his Mobile Office initiative, bringing his team to libraries across the district to meet residents where they are.
His next appearance will be at the Woodhaven Library, located at 85-41 Forest Parkway, on Thursday, May 1, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Another session is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Rego Park Library, 91-41 63rd Drive, during the same evening hours. More dates will be announced soon.
“I know that many of you can’t visit my district offices during regular hours, and that’s why I’m excited to bring my mobile office to a library near you,” Addabbo expressed. “Connecting with each of you on a personal level is not just part of my job, it’s my passion. Your voices matter, and I want to hear your thoughts and concerns.”
