LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County
upon the occasion of receiving the 2009 Residence of the Year from the
Supportive Housing Network of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend those
illustrious organizations within 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 honor the
YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County upon the occasion of receiving the
2009 Residence of the Year from the Supportive Housing Network of New
York; and
WHEREAS, Dating from 1892, the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County
has had a long history and presence in the community as a provider of
invaluable assistance to women and their families in the Southern Tier
area of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Built in the heart of Binghamton in 1908, the YWCA of Bing-
hamton and Broome County building was transformed from a decaying refuge
in dire need of attention into a model showcase for supportive housing
in the region with comprehensive on-site services; and
WHEREAS, While the building exterior was historically restored, the
design of the interior was entirely reconfigured to accommodate a new
housing plan, common areas, childcare facilities, and offices, all
whilst the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County was operating; and
WHEREAS, This major overhaul saw the interior changed from dormitory
style accommodations, which dated back to the original function of the
YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County building as a hotel, to 54 apart-
ments with full bathrooms and kitchens designed to accommodate women
with children; each floor has a comfortable and inviting lounge provid-
ing residents a place to relax, watch television and participate in
group activities; and
WHEREAS, There is also space at the renovated YWCA of Binghamton and
Broome County building for six special needs programs, an emergency
shelter, two transitional living programs and three permanent supportive
programs; and
WHEREAS, Strategically located throughout the five upper floors of
fully integrated housing are the staff offices of the YWCA of Binghamton
and Broome County, allowing residents access to resources such as coun-
selors, case managers and resident assistants; and
WHEREAS, In addition, the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County has a
computer lab available with access to technology supporting the resi-
dents in their goals for self sufficiency, job readiness and retention,
as well as an on-site fitness program complete with pool and yoga room,
and a licensed day care program; and
WHEREAS, The success enjoyed by the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome
County is in direct correlation to the efforts of the many individuals
who have supported the development of this illustrious organization over
the years; and
WHEREAS, Equally commendable are the superbly skilled staff of the
YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County, whose involvement is and has
always been characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled
enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all of their
efforts on behalf of the organization and the population it serves; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when organiza-
tions of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-

tion, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of
the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County upon the occasion of
receiving the 2009 Residence of the Year from the Supportive Housing
Network of New York, fully confident that it will continue to enjoy the
sparkling success which has so characterized its past; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County.