Queens Centers for Progress celebrated the opening of their new lobby at 81-15 164 Street at 10AM on July 9. The new lobby embodies the multi-service health model that QCP has adopted.
See all pictures at http://bit.ly/2G3m2he
QCP operates an Article 16 Clinic, which provides evaluation and treatment services to people with developmental disabilities. The Advanced Care Alliance (ACA), housed on the agency’s third floor, serves individuals who have a developmental disability and their families. In the near future, the facility will also feature a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), operated by CP Metro Services, which is a community-based health organization that provides primary and preventive care, regardless of age, ability to pay, or insurance status. The agency also hosts a ground-floor cafeteria, operated by Lessings, Inc.
The modern lobby refreshes the look of the main QCP facility. The building opened in 1974, and was definitely in need of an upgrade. Among the standout features are photographs by QCP staff, Lorraine Heaney and Ellen Arocho.
Many thanks to Michael Macaluso, who is senior partner of MJM+A Architects and QCP’s Board President, for helping the project come to fruition. Mr. Macaluso said, “An architect’s role in the design process is to be a ‘listener,’ to record and pursue the vision of their client. Terri Ross, QCP’s Executive Director and her team knew what they wanted with a clear view of their needs. We did our best to listen and help bring to life an aging space that was now to project a professional sense to the users and visitors. The space was to inform the inhabitants who QCP is and who we serve- and it all happens in a friendly, clean and professional environment.”
Numerous partners donated their time and services to the project: Caesarstone USA donated the granite countertops, which Penn Fabricators installed. Arley Wholesale donated special tiles, through local retailer Tiles Unlimited. All of those donations saved the organization thousands of dollars.
A grant procured by the NY State Senate through the Dormitory Association of NY State will provide a portion of the renovation funds.
Guests at the opening included NYS Senator Leroy Comrie, NYS Assemblyman David Weprin, and NYS Assemblyman Daniel Rosenthal, as well as representatives from the offices of NYS Senators Jessica Ramos and James Sanders, Borough President Melinda Katz, Assemblyman Brian Barnwell, Council Member Adrienne Adams, Congresswoman Grace Meng and members of Community Board 8 Queens.
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ABOUT QUEENS CENTERS FOR PROGRESS
Queens Centers for Progress is committed to providing person-centered services and supports to children and adults who have developmental disabilities. The goal of these services and supports is to promote independence, community involvement, and quality of life.