Neville Facey Way (Queens)
Present name:None
Location:At the intersection of 137th Avenue and Farmers Boulevard
Honoree: Neville Anthony Facey [no dates given] was Director of the Robert Couche Senior Center in Jamaica, Queens. Under his leadership, hundreds of low-income, elderly residents were provided lunch daily, even during the start of the coronavirus pandemic. For many, it was their only hot meal of the day. He believed strongly in civic involvement, so he maintained an open-door policy for local and state politicians to come to the center and speak to its members. He also assembled groups to meet regularly with the Queens Borough President's office on matters impacting seniors. Due to physical and economic constraints, many older residents unable to venture to places on their own, looked forward to the bus trips he helped organize, including a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC, trips to entertainment venues and dining at ethnically diverse restaurants. He also encouraged the support of local businesses and destinations, including the Black Spectrum Theatre, Roy Wilkins Park and Antun's Restaurant. He helped enrich the lives of older residents through instructional programs that focused on nutrition, exercise, computer training and social activities. He invited local police and firefighters to come educate the public about safety concerns. Before becoming Director, he served for many years as Treasurer on the Center's Board of Directors. Previously, he helped hundreds of Queens’ residents get access to much-needed home healthcare assistance while working as assistant director of administration for Social Concern Community Development's office in Laurelton. He volunteered at the local polls during every election. He also helped countless people, especially immigrants, find jobs and apply to college. (Brooks-Powers)
LL:2022/54