Maria A. Thomson has been a staple in her Queens community for over 30 years. After seeing the devastating toll a fire took on the local library, Ms. Thomson became very concerned about its renovation. Ultimately, the re became the catalyst for her contacting the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association (WRBA).
Serving as President of WRBA for the last six years, Ms. Thomson has a litany of accomplishments under her belt, including keeping a bar from re-opening on the scene of two homicides, reporting over 1,000 illegal conversions in the community, and gaining a Real Estate Non-Solicitation Order and a Cease and Desist Order for Queens. Ms. Thomson is also one of the founders of the Woodhaven Residents’ Security Patrol.
A long time resident of Queens, Ms. Thomson has worked tirelessly to improve her neighborhood. She became involved with the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation (GWDC), and for the last 22 years, has led the Corporation as their Executive Director. During her tenure, she founded the Woodhaven Business Improvement District.
Ms. Thomson is known for giving indiscriminately where she sees the need. A prominent leader and participant in many organizations, she is involved with Jamaica Hospital, the 102nd Police Precinct, and Community Board #9. She was named the first and the only 102nd Precinct Honorary Police Officer of the Month and is currently serving as President (for the fourth time) of the 102nd Precinct Community Council. She has been actively involved in keeping our Fire Engine Company #293 open and continues to work with Forest Park to protect the Forest Park Carousel.
When asked why she gives so unselfishly of her time, she responds with “I love where I live.” She has dedicated many years of her life to improving and maintaining Woodhaven as a safe, viable and stable community. Her passion and dedication are an inspiration to us all.
