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On
Tuesday, April 15th, HOME will present an annual meeting that
was 40 years in the making. This gala occasion will feature a celebration
of our history and serve as a motivating force for the continuance of our
efforts.
With the threat of war, terrorist attacks and large-scale national
disasters, the feeling of helplessness can become overwhelming. Now more
than ever it is important that we reconnect to our communities and to one
another. Getting involved with Housing Opportunities Made Equal is an
excellent way to make a tangible difference in your piece of the world.
We
invite you to join us for an unforgettable evening at the grandly restored
Sphere Entertainment Complex in the heart of downtown Buffalo. Indulge
yourself with excellent food and beverages. Then celebrate by dancing to
standards played by the talented
Buffalo
jazz ensemble, the Joanne Paladino Quartet. The highlight of the evening
will be an encore address by one of HOME's founding members and
historians, Dr. James L. Hecht who also keynoted our 25th
Anniversary Celebration.
Forty years ago, Dr. Hecht, a research chemist by trade, was one of the 16
members of the Niagara Frontier Council for Freedom of Choice in Housing
who, in August of 1963, signed the articles of incorporation of Housing
Opportunities Made Equal. A graduate of Cornell and Yale Universities,
Dr. Hecht excelled in his job at DuPont while serving as a driving force
during the early years of HOME. He served in a volunteer capacity first as
executive vice president, then as president and finally as HOME’s first
chairman.
In
1970, Dr. Hecht wrote Because It Is Right a chronicle of the early
years of the fair housing movement in America with a focus on the
activities of HOME and the struggle for fair housing in Buffalo. Dr.
Hecht will highlight key moments from these years; speak about what
progress was made, and what remains to be done in the struggle for fair
housing. In addition to Dr. Hecht’s address, new board officers will be
elected, and awards will be presented.
Renew your commitment to fair housing and to HOME by getting involved in
this very special event. Take out an ad in our gala program guide, buy a
special patron listing or purchase a table of ten for your business. Or
simply buy a ticket and join us. We need your support.
For more information about our gala program guide, patron listings and
tickets, please contact Leah Mervine at (716) 854-1400 or log on to our
website at
www.homeny.org for printable order forms.
This evening will serve as an opportunity for our members and supporters
alike to unite. We hope that we can count on your presence as we
celebrate 40 years of serving our community. |
