Over $5 Million in State Funds Enhances Social Services and Workforce Development
Revitalized Facility Boosts Economic Growth, Social Cohesion, and Neighborhood Well-being in Queens
Empire State Development today announced the completion of Queens Community House’s (QCH) $16 million renovation project at its Forest Hills Community Center located at 108-25 62nd Drive in Queens. The project, which began in early 2022, encompassed significant updates to the building's infrastructure, the construction of a 7,000 square foot annex, and various improvements to enhance accessibility, safety, and functionality throughout the facility. Supported by New York State’s more than $5 million through Empire State Development and state grants administered by DASNY, this renovation expands QCH's ability to deliver essential services, including workforce development, social support, and neighborhood-strengthening programs, further empowering the community and enhancing quality of life for its residents.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "The completion of the Forest Hills Community Center renovation exemplifies the significant impact of strategic investments in our communities. By bolstering the vital work of organizations like Queens Community House, we are enhancing not just the physical infrastructure but also fostering economic growth, social connections, and overall well-being. This project underscores New York State's dedication to developing robust, vibrant communities where every resident has the opportunity to thrive."
DASNY President and CEO Robert Rodriguez said, “DASNY is proud to support the work of the Queens Community House, which delivers vital services to tens of thousands of Queens residents annually. Because of this organization and especially its devoted staff, individuals and families across the borough are empowered to forge a brighter path for themselves and their community. Their contributions are instrumental in fostering positive change and enhancing the quality of life in Queens.”
Queens Community House Executive Director Ben Thomases said, “The Center is a space where children, teens, older adults, new immigrants, and families from all walks of life come to improve their lives, to learn a skill or get connected to a resource, to get to know their neighbors, and to make a difference in their community. We are grateful for the support of Empire State Development, DASNY, and many others, as well as their acknowledgement of this Center’s importance for the communities of central Queens.”
Queens Community House is a multi-service settlement house that has been serving the diverse communities of Queens since 1975. Founded as Forest Hills Community House, QCH has grown from a single-site organization to a borough-wide network of 40 program locations across 15 neighborhoods, serving more than 25,000 children, youth, adults, and older adults every year. The completed renovation project has transformed the 19,000-square-foot facility and its 7,000-square-foot annex into a modern, accessible, and multi-functional space, greatly enhancing QCH's ability to serve the community's needs and fostering inclusive, thriving neighborhoods.
Key upgrades at the Forest Hills Community Center include a new roof, an updated HVAC system, modernized kitchen and plumbing, and the installation of an elevator to improve accessibility. The interior has been redesigned to create flexible, multi-functional spaces that can accommodate a wide range of programs and services offered by QCH. These programs include a teen center, free English classes, immigration services, home-delivered meals for seniors, afterschool and summer programs for children, youth workforce initiatives, tenant assistance, and homelessness prevention services. The expansion of these offerings will have a profound impact on the community by promoting economic opportunity, strengthening social connections, and enhancing overall well-being.
State Senator Jessica Ramos said, "I'm thrilled that, with the help of $5 million secured through the State Budget process, a newly renovated Queens Community House will soon be re-opening its doors. QCH makes themselves available to my neighbors at every stage of their lives. These capital upgrades are more than just structural improvements. They will allow QCH to expand their offerings and reach more people with transformative services.”
NYCREDC Co-Chairs Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, City University of New York Chancellor and William D. Rahm, Senior Managing Director at Centerbridge Partners, said, "Today, we celebrate the culmination of a transformative project that will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and families in Queens. This center is more than just a building; it's a dynamic space that will drive economic development and social cohesion. We congratulate Queens Community House on this new chapter and look forward to seeing the positive impact this center will have for generations to come."
New York State recognizes the vital role that organizations like Queens Community House play in anchoring communities and fostering their strength and resilience. These organizations provide critical services and resources that help individuals thrive and build a foundation for personal and economic growth. Through its strategic support of initiatives focused on workforce development, social services, and neighborhood programs, New York State ensures that these community hubs continue to deliver opportunities that promote economic mobility, social cohesion, and community well-being for all New Yorkers.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency. The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of "I LOVE NY," the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit regionalcouncils.ny.gov and esd.ny.gov.
Contact: Emily Mijatovic | [email protected] | (212) 803-3692