For 38 years, Albert “Al” Vann has represented the communities of Bedford Stuyvesant and Crown Heights in the halls of power, serving these communities with integrity and respect. Two weeks ago, Central Brooklyn came together to say “thank you” with a block party style tribute.
The event was held at the Memorial Hall of Concord Baptist Church, 835 Marcy Avenue @ Putnam Avenue in Brooklyn from 11am – 3pm. Admission was free.
The tribute featured activities and a creative program exemplifying Mr. Vann’s rich contributions and passions, including health screenings, a farmer’s market table, community resource information, educational books and games and lots of fun, such as dancing, refreshments and arts and crafts for the entire family. I
In addition, a “gratitude booth” provided well-wishers an opportunity to record a brief congratulatory message to Mr. Vann.
Albert Vann has been a NYC Councilmember for twelve years and previously served in the NYS Assembly for twenty-six years. Mr. Vann was a founder of the African-American Teachers Association and Medgar Evers College and has steadfastly advocated for education; he paved the way for the development of affordable housing and community institutions in Central Brooklyn; he led the reform of the city’s lien sale laws and has directed millions of dollars in public funding to towards community-serving programs and facilities during an unmatched career of public service.
The block party was organized by volunteers of the Albert Vann Legacy of Leadership Project, a charitable initiative created to provide support for students, youth and community development projects in central Brooklyn in Albert Vann’s honor.
The Albert Vann Legacy of Leadership Project is fiscally sponsored by FJC, a 501(c)(3) public charity and will hold its inaugural fundraiser, the Legacy Gala on Friday, December 6th. (See back page for more information.) All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. For more information, call 347.921.1216 or email alvannlegacy@gmail.com. Find more online at www.facebook.com/alvannlegacy.