Senate Resolution No. 3164

BY: Senator KENNEDY

COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the
International Institute of Buffalo

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
organizations 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, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the International Institute of
Buffalo; and

WHEREAS, After World War I millions of people came to the United
States; the YWCA realized the need for specialized services for these
immigrants and consequently, established programs in affiliates across
the country called International Institutes; and

WHEREAS, The International Institute of Buffalo was established by
the local YWCA in 1918 to help female immigrants integrate into society;
and

WHEREAS, The International Institute of Buffalo incorporated as an
independent nonprofit organization in 1934, when it broadened its
mission to also serve both men and children; and

WHEREAS, In 1973, the International Institute of Buffalo moved to
its current building, a beautiful Georgian Revival mansion which had
been designed for lawyer Harlowe C. Curtiss in 1898; and

WHEREAS, Over the past century, this vital organization has become a
mainstay of the Buffalo community, helping ethnic people rapidly
integrate into society while honoring and preserving their proud
heritage; approximately 200 people are served by the Institute each day;
and

WHEREAS, The International Institute of Buffalo strives to assist
refugees and immigrants overcome language and cultural barriers so they
become self-sufficient, productive members of the community through
interpretation and translation services, educational programs, language
classes and legal assistance with citizenship concerns; and

WHEREAS, The Institute also diligently works to promote global
education and international connections throughout Western New York; and

WHEREAS, The success of the International Institute is in direct
correlation to the efforts of its Executive Director Eva Hassett, 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 institution and
the community it serves; and

WHEREAS, Western New York, Erie County, and City of Buffalo, and its
people continue to welcome refugees and make resources available for
refugees and their families to lead dignified lives, and achieve
security in personhood and to follow life, liberty and the pursuit of
happiness; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the International Institute of
Buffalo; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Eva Hassett, Executive Director, International Institute
of Buffalo.