Senate Resolution No. 1797

BY: Senator BRESLIN

COMMENDING Two Together upon the occasion of
celebrating its 20th Anniversary

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in the communities across New York
State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare
of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Two Together upon the occasion of celebrating its 20th
Anniversary, to be feted at an event on Tuesday, May 2, 2017, at the
Terrace Gallery inside the New York State Museum in Albany, New York;
and

WHEREAS, Two Together is a free after-school and summer reading and
writing program that has been operating in the high-need community of
the South End of Albany, New York; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception in 1997, thousands of children have
benefitted from having a tutor of their own through Two Together; the
core of this auspicious organization has enabled more students to
discover the joy of learning; and

WHEREAS, Modeled after a program developed in Manhattan, the Albany
Project was organized by Rena Button, the program's first President,
with help from Albany philanthropist, Morris Silverman; and

WHEREAS, Two Together utilizes community resources and actively
involves parents and caregivers to ensure the success of their children
in the program; today, they partner with the YMCA, the Giffen Memorial
Elementary School and The College of Saint Rose; and

WHEREAS, Under the luminous leadership of Executive Director, Jema
Clements, Two Together strengthens children's social, cultural and
intellectual growth through improved language and literacy skills in a
safe environment that fosters a life-long love and enthusiasm for
learning; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Two Together upon the occasion of celebrating its 20th
Anniversary; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Jema Clements, Executive Director, Two Together.