Queens, NY - Home to the Fastest Growing Population of Adults Over 65

Among the largest communities in New York City, Queens is home to the fastest growing population of adults over 65. As such, Queens community boards play a crucial role in bringing people together and making recommendations on issues ranging from street design to voting. They also serve as a bridge between residents and the city government.

During the first day of April, 37 seats on the borough's community boards were vacant. This is a problem because residents over the age of 65 make up over 40 percent of the community board membership. It also means that people between the ages of 25 and 44 are missing from every single board. The community board's new borough president, Donovan Richards, has stated that he wants to attract younger people to the positions. This is an opportunity to promote inclusivity and diversity. He will also encourage underrepresented groups to apply for positions on the community boards.

On a more positive note, there are some great programs for seniors in Queens. One of the biggest nonprofit community-based service agencies in the borough, Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, Inc., provides a variety of comprehensive programs that include drug rehabilitation, afterschool programs, summer camps and more. It has been serving the community for over 55 years.

Queens community boards also play a crucial role in educating residents about their rights and responsibilities. They host forums on a variety of important issues, such as voter education and street design, and make recommendations on land use proposals. The borough president's office is responsible for archiving and live streaming all community board meetings. Currently, the office is taking over responsibility for this task, and will also continue to encourage underrepresented groups to apply for positions.