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.