50 for 50: Meet Doug Soblick

QCH's Kew Gardens Community Center was established in 1996 through the efforts of the Kew Gardens Civic Association and other local residents who advocated for a senior center to serve their neighborhood. Breaking from the traditional senior center model, the Center introduced an innovative "peer-led education" approach, where active older adults both taught and participated in classes on a wide range of subjects. Today, the Center operates as a comprehensive, Department for the Aging-funded older adult center, offering classes, lunch, and socialization opportunities.

“QCH has been a lifeline for me, especially after losing my son to brain cancer a few years ago. The grief was overwhelming, and the Kew Gardens Community Center became my essential support.

I joined the Center in 2016, before the pandemic, seeking activity after retirement. But after my son passed, it became something far more profound. I was a “basket case,” facing deep depression. Here, I found people who genuinely cared. They noticed when I was having a bad day, asking, ‘Doug, what’s going on? What’s wrong? Are you okay?’ Their concern made all the difference. Having this center saved my sanity, and possibly my very life, because depression can be a horrible thing, and it stopped me from going down that path.

What I love most is the companionship and love here. It’s more than just food; it’s about people being together and being there for each other. I’ve seen many come out of their shells and find friends. It’s truly marvelous.
Karen, the program director, has been an incredible support. She always checks in, asking how I’m doing. My core group of friends here has been my constant support.

QCH has had a profound and lasting impact. I call it my ‘Cheers,’ my happy place. I’m greeted by friends, surrounded by love and friendship.

Beyond emotional support, the Center has given me new purpose. Karen has expanded activities significantly. I’m learning to dance, playing ping pong, and attending exercise classes. I’m here four days a week. Without this center, I don’t know what I’d do.

The positive impact even extends to my wife. While she doesn’t come, my lifted spirits allow me to help her. I even bring her lunch from the Center daily.

Others who’ve visited other centers agree this one is the best—the nicest people, the best atmosphere. I owe a huge debt to this place; I don’t think I’ll ever be able to repay what it’s done for me. It’s simply wonderful, and I can’t say enough about it.”

—Doug Soblick