William Brandon has been coming to Riis Settlement’s Queensbridge center for the past 11 years. Originally from Belize, seventy-three old William has been living in New York City since 1974. In 1981 he moved to the Queensbridge community. He originally moved to New York City in hopes of gaining treatment for his vision which was impaired during a work-related accident during his youth in Belize. William has been legally blind for the majority of his lifetime but has not let that stop him from living an enriching and eventful life.
William began coming to the Senior center at Queensbridge after hearing about it from his neighbor Alberto. “Alberto told me the wonderful things happening at the Senior center. I didn’t want to stay at home so I started leaving my home to do something.”
The Senior center at Queensbridge has given many people like William a chance to connect and engage with their community. With the devoted assistance of the Senior Center’s Case Manager Kim Dudley and Program Specialist Robbin Davis, William has been able to become an active member of the Senior community despite his vision impairment. “I loved the Queensbridge Senior Center ever since the first day. I have people here I can talk to and call family. I get to enjoy breakfast meals in the morning, listen to the news and see my friends every day,” William said.
William has been spearheading the efforts at the Senior Center’s ‘Men’s Club’ which meets throughout the week. “I met my best friend, Mr. Smith through the Men’s Club. The men and I do all sorts of activities and go on trips together.” William has helped with the fundraising efforts for the Men’s Club by contributing items and coordinating fundraising events. “I love to donate my fruit baskets and help with our events. Working with the other men here is one of my favorite activities.”
Another favorite for William are the trips offered by the Center. “My favorite place to visit is City Island. I love seafood and getting to try their selection of clams and octopus. I also love going to the Broadway shows with the Center. Traveling is something I’ve always enjoyed and I get to do that here at Riis Settlement.” William has traveled extensively on his own to places such as San Diego, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, Miami and Hawaii.
Originally William frequented the Senior Center every day. Nowadays he visits on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays he travels to Manhattan’s Center for the Blind. Between these two places, William makes sure he stays busy and active. “I like to never be bored nor by myself. The Riis Settlement community has become a family I can enjoy my time with- and that is very important to me.”
