In an all-day celebration, Sunnyside Community Services’ award-winning Center for Active Older Adults officially opened its doors on September 4, 2008.  After a morning staff celebration, the Center members (individuals over 60 years of age) filled the room to capacity at a grand opening luncheon party with music and dancing. The day culminated in the official ribbon cutting ceremony attended by the many friends and supporters of Sunnyside Community Services who helped the project in various ways. Speakers included elected and appointed officials and many of the wonderful donors who helped secure funds for the remarkable transformation of an abandoned auto body shop into a beautiful and vital community landmark.   

This project started over six years ago, and despite construction delays, administrative hang-ups, and other issues, Sunnyside Community Services and the Queens community now have a beautiful, state of the art facility to use and enjoy. “Just look at us now!” said Judith Zangwill, executive director of SCS.  “We have an amazing, award-winning space with a completely new kitchen and dining area, and more room for programs, training sessions, and community meetings.  We are certain that SCS will continue to be the center of community activity and provide a cheerful and warm center for active older adults, including many who are not ready to be called ‘seniors.' '”

Photos: Above, Lillie Navarro, Marie Konecko, Rob McCreanor, Rita Manton, David Whyne, and Richard McGrade cut the ribbon to celebrate the official opening of the new Center; photo by Joel Weber, Beechtree Images. Below, Images of the new Center, photos by Oleg March.