Selfhelp Community Services celebrated National Older Americans Month in May with a series of musical performances, recognition ceremonies and community gatherings across its five Older Adult Centers in Queens.
The events, held throughout the month, honored older adults in Forest Hills, Bayside, Maspeth and Flushing with support from local elected officials. Activities ranged from a Motown-themed party and birthday celebrations to volunteer appreciation events featuring certificates presented by state and city lawmakers.
The Austin Street Older Adult Center in Forest Hills kicked off the festivities on May 9 with a special lunch and live music for its members.
On May 12, the Clearview OAC in Bayside hosted a lively Motown-themed event in collaboration with the Queens Culture and Arts Network. The program, supported by a cultural grant from City Council Member Vickie Paladino, featured a local performer who sang hits by Marvin Gaye and The Temptations. Members participated by clapping along, dancing, and even joining the performer on stage. Council Member Paladino attended and offered remarks during the celebration.
Later that week, on May 15, the Maspeth OAC held a birthday celebration for its members born in May. During the event, the title of “Mother of the Year” was awarded to the oldest mother in attendance. Assembly Member Steven Raga was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation from the center’s members. Dolma Lama, representing Raga’s office, accepted the certificate on his behalf.
On May 19, the Benjamin Rosenthal-Prince St. OAC in Flushing honored its senior volunteers during a special ceremony. Dozens of volunteers were acknowledged with certificates of recognition provided by Assembly Member Nily Rozic, State Senator John Liu and Council Member Sandra Ung.
Closing out the month’s programming, the Latimer Gardens OAC—also located in Flushing—hosted a joint celebration on May 21 to recognize older adults and May birthdays. Senator Liu issued certificates to celebrants, while Council Member Ung participated in the event.
“Every May, we proudly celebrate Older Americans Month because we believe everyone should age with dignity and independence,” said Katie Foley of Selfhelp Community Services. “Our Older Adult Centers bring much-needed services within reach. Selfhelp appreciates the support of our local elected officials, who enable us to host celebrations and increase the programs onsite that enrich the lives of older adults across Queens.”
Selfhelp Community Services, which operates Older Adult Centers across New York City, provides wellness programs, social activities and support services aimed at helping older adults live independently in their communities.
