Courtesy Queens Community House
Since its inception in 1975, Queens Community House (QCH) has evolved from a single-site organization into a vast network serving 40 locations across Queens.
MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
Since its founding in 1975, Queens Community House (QCH) has grown from a single-site organization into a sprawling network that provides vital support across Queens. Originally established as Forest Hills Community House to mend divisions within a conflicted neighborhood, QCH has expanded its reach to offer comprehensive services at 40 locations across 15 neighborhoods, impacting thousands of residents each year.
At the heart of QCH’s mission is a commitment to addressing the interconnected needs of the community. The organization’s holistic approach ensures that residents from all walks of life have access to resources that support housing stability, health, employment, education, and financial well-being. This approach is evident in the range of programs offered, from youth services to support for older adults.
QCH’s Summer Rising program is an example of its commitment to youth development. This annual initiative, which wrapped up last week, operates across multiple sites in Queens, providing a safe and engaging environment for children and teens during the summer months. Over the course of the 7.1-week program, participants benefit from academic enrichment activities designed to prevent summer learning loss and keep students on track for the upcoming school year.
The program includes a strong focus on literacy, aiming to maintain educational momentum and prevent the typical dip in academic performance that can occur when school is not in session. In addition to academic support, the Summer Rising program offers recreational activities that promote social skills, creativity, and physical fitness, ensuring a well-rounded summer experience for young people.
Another key component of QCH’s youth services is the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). Targeted at individuals aged 14 to 24, SYEP provides paid summer jobs that help participants gain valuable work experience and develop essential job skills. The program places youth in a variety of roles across different sectors, including government agencies, nonprofits, hospitals, retail businesses, and more. This exposure to diverse career paths not only enhances job readiness but also supports financial literacy and personal development.
QCH’s commitment to older adults is evident in its six dedicated older adult centers spread throughout Queens. These centers, which operate year-round, offer a wide range of activities and services designed to support seniors and enhance their quality of life.
The Jamaica Older Adult Center, which recently celebrated its first anniversary, and the Queens Center for Gay Seniors in Jackson Heights are among the highlights. The latter provides tailored support for LGBTQ+ seniors, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. Other centers, such as the Kew Gardens Community Center and the Forest Hills Older Adult Center, offer a variety of social, recreational, and educational activities, including exercise classes, arts and crafts, and intergenerational programs that connect seniors with younger community members.
One of the standout features of these centers is their focus on accessibility and inclusivity. The Forest Hills Older Adult Center, for example, recently underwent a major renovation to improve accessibility with new elevators, clear walkways, and ADA-compliant features. This renovation underscores QCH’s commitment to ensuring that all community members can fully participate in the center’s activities and services.
In addition to its programs for youth and older adults, QCH offers extensive support services for families and adults. These services are crucial for maintaining stability and addressing the diverse challenges faced by Queens residents.
From youth services and older adult support to housing assistance and food security, QCH’s holistic approach enhances the well-being of thousands each year.
Housing and eviction prevention are among the key areas of focus. QCH’s dedicated staff work tirelessly to assist individuals and families facing the threat of eviction. Through counseling, legal assistance, and advocacy, the organization helps clients understand their rights and access necessary resources to prevent homelessness.
Food security is another critical area where QCH makes a significant impact. The organization operates a food pantry that serves community members of all ages, providing weekly food distributions to those in need. This service is particularly vital for families struggling to make ends meet, ensuring that they have access to nutritious food and support during difficult times.
Immigration support is another cornerstone of QCH’s family services. The organization offers assistance with immigration and citizenship issues, including legal counseling and support for individuals navigating the complex immigration system. Additionally, QCH provides free English classes for adults, helping non-English speakers improve their language skills and integrate more fully into their communities.
For homebound seniors, QCH offers a home-delivered meals program, ensuring that those who are unable to leave their homes still receive nutritious meals. This service is an essential lifeline for older adults who may have mobility issues or health challenges that make it difficult for them to access other food resources.
QCH is also actively involved in community engagement and advocacy. One recent initiative was a community conversation on racial equity, held in partnership with the NYC Commission on Racial Equity (CORE). This event brought together diverse New Yorkers to discuss and shape the city’s equity priorities, reflecting QCH’s commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive community.
Looking ahead, QCH’s biggest annual event is the Fall Gala, scheduled for October 9, 2024. This fundraising event is crucial for supporting QCH’s programs and services throughout the year. The gala will feature a premiere of videos highlighting the impact of QCH’s work and provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about the organization’s efforts. For more information about the Fall Gala, visit qchnyc.org/fallgala.
As Queens Community House continues to expand and adapt, its dedication to supporting the diverse needs of the borough remains steadfast. With a wide range of programs and services designed to address various aspects of community life, QCH plays a vital role in enhancing the well-being and resilience of Queens residents.
