Honor YM & YWHA Centennial

Senate Resolution No. 2002 BY: Senator ALCANTARA COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood WHEREAS, In the course of the evolving development of this Empire State, if the ingredients of shared concern and responsive endeavor combine in the commitment to society, there have emerged among the distinguished citizens of the State of New York certain organizations which warrant special recognition; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend those illustrious organizations of the State of New York whose focus and intent have made a substantial impact on the quality of life in their communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood to be celebrated with a Gala Dinner on Thursday, June 8,

1917; and WHEREAS, With an increase in immigration to the United States, Washington Heights and Inwood became hotspots for populations fleeing as refugees from wars, escaping oppressive regimes, and simply hoping for a better life for their families; and WHEREAS, In the earliest years of the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, the focus was on the resettlement of refugees; the neighborhood became home to the most German refugees in the country in the 1930s; later, from 1978 onward, the organization worked to aid Jewish refugees from Russia with similar urgency; and WHEREAS, During this time, the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood focused on English classes, citizenship tutoring, and recreation-based community building programs to serve the needs of its communities; and WHEREAS, The YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood expanded its multi-generational programming and innovative care for the elderly throughout the 1990s; and WHEREAS, The Wien House, a 100-unit independent living facility, was erected adjacent to the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, where beloved programs like lunch for seniors and continuing education classes have been instrumental in local seniors experiencing a marked improvement in their quality of life; and WHEREAS, In addition, the YM & YWHA's nursery school has grown tremendously from its humble beginnings to include six fully staffed rooms, and an unprecedented quality of teachers and services; and WHEREAS, With notable programs such as Sosua, an intensive musical theater program for teens, this vital organization highlights the unique mixture of cultures within the community, and celebrates all that can be achieved by working together; and WHEREAS, A true asset to its community, the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood provides such services as mental health outreach, work with battered women, and access to social services; furthermore, its staff is trained in cultural diversity, services are offered in three languages, and a heavy emphasis is placed on workforce development; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 100 year history, the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which it serves; and WHEREAS, The success of the the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood is in direct correlation to the efforts of its staff, whose involvement is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of the organization and the community it serves; and WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents an opportunity for this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood; and WHEREAS, In light of its commitment, dedication and successful efforts, it is the custom of this Legislative Body to extend its highest commendation to the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood.