LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Bronx
Shepherds Restoration Corporation

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 30th Anniversary of the Bronx Shepherds Restoration Corpo-
ration, to be celebrated on Friday, May 8, 2009; and
WHEREAS, A little over two decades ago, the Bronx Shepherds were
organized by pastors, ministers and lay persons that chose to remain in
the South Bronx after major institutions abandoned the area; this group
felt that the rebuilding of the South Bronx would be their task; and
WHEREAS, Together, this special group discussed approaches, goals, and
objectives and finally agreed that the organization's mission would be
the physical, social and economic rehabilitation of the community, while
also providing spiritual substance and leadership; and
WHEREAS, Since its incorporation in 1980, the Bronx Shepherds Restora-
tion (BSR) has been a leading force bringing much needed services to the
residents of the Bronx; its membership today consists of approximately
40 member churches, 99% of which consist of minority congregations; the
aggregate constituency consists of an excess of 10,000 members; and
WHEREAS, Consequently, the BSR has established an impressive record
that shows what positive results can occur when government, various
agencies and the local communities join together to work towards a
common goal to bring much needed services to the residents of the Bronx;
the source of funding for administrative and operative functions come
from the Department of Housing and Community Renewal, New York State
Weatherization, and the New York City Department of Housing Preservation
and Development; and
WHEREAS, Additionally, the Shepherds earn developer fees through
participation in Housing Preservation and Development Tax Credit Reha-
bilitation Programs as well as the Department of Housing and Community
Renewal's Housing Trust Fund and HOME Programs; and
WHEREAS, A major thrust of the organization has been the upgrading of
existing housing either through gut or moderate rehabilitation; for over
a decade, BSR has owned and managed a 64 unit multi-family property;
from that achievement, it has been able to expand owner/management to 21
other properties totaling 500 units; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the quality of life in their community and have shown a long and
sustained commitment to the maintenance of high standards in their
profession, certainly have earned recognition and applause; now, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the Bronx Shepherds Restoration
Corporation; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Reverend Edward Tinsley, President and to Ted Jefferson,
Executive Director.