Photo: Woodhaven residents Asta Lukosevicius (l.) and WRBA Director Janet Chan-Smith paint over graffiti on a neighborhood mailbox. Courtesy of WRBA
The latest endeavor of one area civic aims to benefit more than the Woodhaven community the organization serves.
On Saturday, July 25, the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association will lead a cast of volunteers in painting every mailbox—more than 100 in all—in the neighborhood. Though the group spearheads beautification efforts throughout the year, most of the receptacles are marred by graffiti, garbage, and bird droppings.
According to WRBA President Martin Colberg, the civic will solicit pledges from residents to support the painting. All proceeds will be donated to New York Families for Autistic Children, an area nonprofit organization that works to enhance the lives of individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. NYFAC’s Autism Center is on Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach; and its Administrative Building is on Pitkin Avenue in Ozone Park.
“I have seen time and again how generous the people of Woodhaven are, and this clean-up fundraiser will prove once more that residents here care about both their neighborhood and assisting those who can use a helping hand,” said WRBA Director Edward K. Wendell.
Those interested in donating can make a pledge by sending an email to info@woodhaven-nyc.org, or at the next WRBA Town Hall on Saturday, July 18, at 10 a.m., at Emanuel United Church of Christ at 91st Avenue and Woodhaven Boulevard. Donations can be made with cash, check, or via online method (email the WRBA for more information regarding this payment option.)
Interested in volunteering? Call or email the WRBA: (718) 296-3735; info@woodhaven-nyc.org.
By Michael V. Cusenza
michael@theforumnewsgroup.com
