'HOME' FOR THE HOLIDAYS AT THE JAMAICA OLDER ADULT CENTER

It’s the holiday season and this time of year can bring an array of emotions for older adults. Though the holidays can bring an overall sense of joy while spending quality time with family and friends, our staff at the Jamaica Older Adult Center recognize what a difficult time it can be for neighbors that don't have loved ones nearby. The distance may result in them withdrawing from social activities and feeling lonely and isolated.

As part of our commitment to encouraging senior independence and continued engagement, we were excited to treat older adults in the neighborhood with a meaningful holiday celebration for them and their peers. For the Center's first Thanksgiving, participants from our older adult centers across Queens joined our Jamaica neighbors for live music, a dance party, arts & crafts, ping pong, an entertaining magician, and of course, delicious turkey. Participants of the Jamaica Older Adult Center were able to experience the holiday in a family environment, enjoying good food, making new friends and laughing with their peers. Also, by partnering with MetroPlusHealth, we were able to give free turkeys to older adults for them to bring home in time for Thanksgiving Day.

STUDENTS GET INSPIRED ON BROADWAY

Our alternative high schools across Queens are designed to support young adults who have struggled in the traditional high school setting. Throughout the school year, our staff at Voyages South Alternative High School are always exploring creative ways to keep students engaged so that they can achieve academic success, explore their interests, and develop life skills. In November, Manhattan was the classroom. On November 1, we took our students to see the award-winning Broadway show “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”. Many of them had never been to a Broadway show before and were in awe of the performances and the special effects. On November 17, our staff took the students to the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, where they immersed themselves in the rich history of the genre and learned about iconic jazz musicians, many of whom were from New York City. From Broadway to Harlem, the young adults were exposed to diverse cultural career opportunities available in their home city.

HERE FOR QUEENS: AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE

We strive to be there for Queens neighbors at every stage of life, helping them to develop the knowledge, confidence, and skills to change their lives for the better and become active participants in their larger community. Click here to watch a special QCH video featuring our programs and services across the borough.

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR: KEN

The Queens Center for Gay Seniors (QCGS) provides a culturally-rich environment where older adults can make new friends, enjoy a hot meal, keep physically active, learn new skills, and give back through volunteer opportunities. In this special edition of our Meet Your Neighbor series, hear from Ken, a QCGS program participant.

"A few months ago, I started to search for a rainbow-based senior center in Queens. My search immediately led me to QCGS, and I've been going ever since. It's such a friendly and inclusive place. I also get to participate in yoga, relaxation, field trips, and healthy group discussions with my peers. I always try to get the word out to others in Queens about how great the Center is, encouraging them to just come and see what it's about. You can't just put a general label to define the Center. You have to see it yourself to really know QCGS."

Queens Community House provides individuals and families with the tools to enrich their lives and build healthy, inclusive communities.