50 for 50: Tamika Williams

Queens Community House has proudly operated the Pomonok Community Center since 2006, serving the more than 4,000 residents who call the NYCHA Pomonok Houses development home. Through programs like our older adult center, afterschool program, and teen programming, we are committed to improving the lives of individuals and families in Pomonok through community engagement and holistic services. Our partnership with the Pomonok Residents Association helps ensure we remain closely connected to the needs and voices of the community. In this 50 for 50 feature, we hear from Tamika Williams, President of the Pomonok Residents Association, who reflects on the importance of that partnership and what it means for the future of Pomonok.

“I moved to Pomonok in 1993, and this community has been home ever since. I raised my two children here—my oldest is 33 and my younger one is 29. Pomonok helped shape our family, so giving back to the community together means a lot.

Pomonok is a special place. The development sits on beautiful land and is surrounded by houses, co-ops, and condos. We’re also fortunate to have strong resources nearby. We have Queens Community House onsite, Queens College is right next door, and organizations like the electrical union Local 3 offer pathways into lifelong careers. Pomonok is a working-class community, but it’s full of opportunity.

I first got involved with the Pomonok Residents Association in 2014 as a volunteer, and today I serve as President. What motivates me is helping people—whether someone needs support finding employment, accessing resources, or navigating challenges at home. I truly believe this is God’s work, and for me it became a calling.

My background in construction also shapes how I approach community leadership. I love seeing things go from nothing to something, and that mindset has helped guide improvements across Pomonok. Under my leadership, we’ve helped bring new projects to life, including playgrounds, a basketball court, a barbecue area, and a recreational workout space.

One of our biggest challenges isn’t infrastructure—it’s mindset. Sometimes people see public housing and think, ‘it’s just the projects’. I’m working to change that. Pomonok is a beautiful community, and I want residents to feel proud of where they live.

Our ongoing partnership with Queens Community House plays an important role in that effort. Together, we collaborate well on programs, events, and outreach that bring residents together and connect them with resources. We’re also working together on plans to renovate the Pomonok Community Center, creating a brighter, more welcoming space where residents will feel proud to gather, learn, and connect. 

At the end of the day, everything we do is about building a stronger Pomonok—one where residents feel supported, connected, and proud to call it home.”

—Tamika Williams