GALLERY
Queens on our Radar: ECF Showing Up and Staying Rooted in Our Hometown
ECF has been making moves in the heart of Queens—where voices rise, ideas spark, and change begins. We’re not just watching from the sidelines; we’re stepping into rooms where impact happens. This spring, we showed up to two standout events that brought purpose, power, and possibility.
Civic Energy in Action: ECF at the State of the Borough Address
Elite Community Foundation showed up and showed out at the Queens Borough President Donovan Richards’ Annual State of the Borough Address on April 25, 2025, at the iconic Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. We had the honor of attending this high-energy, visionary event where Borough President Richards spotlighted bold accomplishments across Queens and unveiled exciting plans for the year ahead. The auditorium was filled with changemakers, stakeholders, and community leaders from across the city and state, each one ready to build a brighter future together. Cultural performances brought rhythm and spirit, while surprise highlights kept the energy buzzing. ECF was proud to be present, soaking in the inspiration, civic pride, and community-driven momentum. We thrive when public leadership and grassroots passion meet in one place!
It was truly energizing to hear firsthand the bold plans and ambitious goals shaping the future of the borough ECF proudly calls home. Listening to a vision that spoke directly to our streets, our services, and our neighborhoods made the message hit close—this is about us. The gathering wasn’t just informative; it was a vivid reminder of why staying grounded in local action matters and why ECF keeps its roots deep in the community. Moments like these reaffirm our hope to partner with leaders and changemakers who share a deep commitment to progress. While we haven’t worked directly together, we’re inspired by the Borough President’s vision and look forward to future opportunities to contribute meaningfully alongside those driving positive change. The momentum is building, and ECF is all in for what’s next—focused, fired up, and ready to make it happen.
Catch a glimpse of the moments we captured!
Listening, Learning, and Vital Knowledge: ECF at the Sickle Cell Symposium
Elite Community Foundation (ECF) was on the move this spring, diving deep into vital conversations right in our local community! One highlight, we were proud to participate in the Third Annual Symposium on Advancements in Sickle Cell Trait Research and Treatment held on April 4, 2024, at the Queens Hospital Center Auditorium, organized by the phenomenal Sickle Cell Awareness Foundation under the leadership of founder Mrs. Merlene Smith-Sotillo. The atmosphere was rich with insight as dynamic speakers delivering powerful information that blended cutting-edge research and clinical expertise.
Experts from across the field unpacked the complexities of Sickle Cell Trait—what it is, why it matters, and what the future of treatment could look like. From genetic implications to social health equity, the event was packed with compelling data, passionate advocacy, and forward-thinking solutions. ECF remains committed to staying informed and engaged where it counts. Stay tuned—this is only the beginning. Talk about impact! The knowledge shared at this event hits home for our communities in a real way. When health information is relatable and research is made accessible, it gives individuals the confidence to make informed, proactive decisions. Healthcare providers gained real-world tools they can use immediately, and the public left with answers, clarity, and confidence. This wasn’t just a symbolism, it was a movement toward awareness, prevention, and stronger, healthier futures. Events like this turn medical insight into community power.
Scenes from the day—take a look!
