Honor Black Veterans Group

Senate Resolution No. 2800 BY: Senator COMRIE COMMEMORATING the 38th Anniversary of Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc. on July 29, 2017 WHEREAS, In the course of the evolving development of this Empire State, where 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 38th Anniversary of Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc., to be celebrated at its Gala On The Sea: Harlem Renaissance Black Tie Affair on Saturday, July 29, 2017, aboard the Cornucopia Majesty; and WHEREAS, Incorporated in 1979, Black Veterans for Social Justice (BVSJ) is the largest private community-based agency serving New York City's veterans, their families and the community; and WHEREAS, BVSJ developed as an outgrowth of the social justice movement; the initial concern was assisting veterans of the Vietnam War to reintegrate with their families, communities, and the greater society; and WHEREAS, Today, BVSJ annually serves an average of 12,000 clients, maintains 400 units of housing and several commercial spaces, and provides an array of social services; and WHEREAS, This vital organization's roster of programs include its Veteran Service Center, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs, Job To Build On/Consortium Of Worker Education, Advocacy and Cultural Activities, Division of Housing Management, Solutions to End Homelessness Program (STEHP), Food Pantry Service, HIV and AIDS Prevention and Outreach, and Veterans Advisory Groups (VAG); and WHEREAS, BVSJ continues its frontline commitment to both active and inactive military personnel, their families and the community at large; and WHEREAS, Each year, BVSJ assists thousands of veterans with myriad difficulties that arise from transitioning from military to civilian life by providing social services support with tender loving care and a listening ear; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 38 year history, Black Veterans for Social Justice has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which it serves; and WHEREAS, The success of Black Veterans for Social Justice is in direct correlation to the efforts of its Board of Directors and 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 Black Veterans for Social Justice; 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 Black Veterans for Social Justice of Brooklyn, New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 38th Anniversary of Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc. on July 29, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc.