"The first time I got connected to QCH was during my fall semester of 2021. It was my last semester in the social work program at QCH and I was required to do an internship for class. At the time I knew nothing about trade school or what a trade was.
Queens neighbors, meet Esther Sanchez, recipient of QCH's 2022 Queens Community Builder Award! Every year, this award recognizes an individual who has made a dedicated effort to unite neighbors of all backgrounds, embodying what is best about our borough.
"My aspirations are to own my own restaurant and become financially stable. The Queens Connect program taught me the values that I need to succeed in my personal and professional life.
“I grew up in Smithtown, NY and started dancing at the age of 4. I was lucky enough to continue my passion of dance, as I went to Penn State University and competed on the Penn State Lionettes Dance Team all 4 years of my college career!
“I was born in Venezuela, but Jackson Heights in Queens is my home and community. I am excited to be the new Director of Corporate Partnerships at QCH.
"The running joke in the Connecticut town where I grew up was that there were more cows than people. There were only about 1200 people in the entire town, and I had to drive 20 minutes to the nearest grocery store.
"Volunteering has had such a valuable and positive affect on me. As a volunteer, I reap the satisfaction of becoming engaged in my community. There are many benefits from volunteering such as developing communication skills, learning teamwork, and solving problems.
