Throughout December, Riis Settlement was delighted to host and take part in a number of holiday celebrations for community members of all ages. Participants at Riis Academy – P.S 166 kicked off the season by crafting ornaments for Kaufman Astoria Studios’ holiday tree. They were elated to take part in the annual tree lighting ceremony and have their art on display for the community to enjoy! Later, all Riis Academy participants enjoyed fantastic holiday parties at their respective sites, along with a screening of “How the Grinch Stole Riismas,” a short movie based on “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” that all sites worked together to create.
Our community also came together to provide wonderful gifts for our young people. The Queens Toy Dash, a Long Island City-based toy drive and bike event, donated an abundance of amazing gifts, which we distributed to participants at Riis Academy – Ravenswood Cornerstone. We also served as a collection site for an additional toy drive sponsored by Councilmember Julie Won’s office, where toys were distributed at Ravenswood Cornerstone, along with a number of shelters and other NYCHA developments in western Queens. And musician, rapper, and Queensbridge native Nas hosted his annual toy giveaway at our Queensbridge community center, which has become a special and beloved tradition for residents.
Lastly, our Older Adult Services team hosted some fantastic holiday and end of year parties, featuring a special holiday dinner, gift giveaways, dance performances, and more. These events gave our older adults, many of whom live on their own, a place to come together, enjoy one another’s company, and celebrate a wonderful year. We want to thank every partner organization, elected official, donor, and neighbor who made this holiday season so special for those we serve!
