Annual Gala and Community Service Awards

Bringing It Home!

On Thursday, May 21st, 2009, Hope Community held its 40th Annual Gala at the agency's Carlos Rios Senior Residence. The theme of Hope Community’s Annual Event, “Bringing it Home,” was chosen to emphasize the many projects that improve the quality of life for East Harlem residents “everyday” ways. Welcome remarks included an invocation by Father Gilmore of St. Cecilia's Parish, and a keynote speech by Alvin Johnson UPACA VII Tenant Association President.

Lynda Baquero, WNBC-TV News Anchor, served as Hostess/Emcee for the evening, and presented Hope's traditional Community Service Awards honoring individuals that have committed their vision and talents to building a better East Harlem.  2008 honorees were: Rei Pérez Vice President for Community Relations at Citigroup; Leticia Rodríguez Executive Director of the Puerto Rican Cultural Heritage House (La Casa); Raphael Benavides and Edward Mateus Co-Owners, Ricardo Steak House; and Assistant Chief Raymond Díaz Commanding officer of NYPD Patrol Borough Manhattan North. Hope Community Board members William Ofenloch and Haydee F. Areizaga were also honored for their many years of service.