Sunnyside Community Services (SCS) has renamed its Adult and Immigrant Services division the Judy Steele Center for Adult and Immigrant Services, in memory of Judy Steele, a former SCS Board Member. Family, friends, and SCS staff gathered on November 27 at SCS’ Sunnyside location for the dedication ceremony.
“I am extremely grateful for having been able to call Judy Steele a friend and supporter, both personally and professionally,” said Judy Zangwill, Executive Director of SCS. “She wanted to help her neighbors and make our community stronger, so it is fitting that we name our Adult and Immigrant Services division after her. I am so pleased that her commitment to education and service will live on in the Judy Steele Center for Adult and Immigrant Services.”
As a teenager, Judy Steele created, obtained funding for, and ran a summer camp program for children in East Harlem. In college, she volunteered for programs for impoverished children, and student-taught in the South Bronx. She became a teacher in that same community and taught ill and home-bound children, before embarking on a successful career educating and training adults in the business world.
Judy Steele was a Sunnyside resident for three decades and a Queens resident for nearly her entire life. Her involvement with SCS arose when her love for Sunnyside merged with her lifelong commitment to serving others. She served on the SCS Board of Directors for 14 years, from 1996 – 2010, and as vice president of the Board from 2006 – 2008.
The naming of the center after Judy Steele honors her passion for education and her commitment to SCS and is made possible thanks to a significant contribution to SCS by the family and friends of Judy Steele.
“Judy cherished the energy and spirit of Sunnyside and wanted the best for its residents,” said Ned Steele, SCS Board Member who was married to Judy Steele until her death in 2010. “With its mission to enrich lives and strengthen the community, she found a perfect ally in SCS. I am proud that her name is now intertwined with the organization that she held in such high regard. I hope this connection will inspire others to support the vital work of SCS.”
To learn more about SCS and its programs, call 718-784-6173 or email info@scsny.org.