[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 43 (Friday, March 13, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E324-E325]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING HATTIE L. LUCAS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 13, 2015

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, communities thrive when hard work, 
dedication, and sacrifice are set by voluntary example. Hattie L. 
Lucas's actions embody these ideals for her community in Co-op City.
  Hattie Lucas was born in Bramberg, South Carolina. Her family decided 
to relocate to New York City when Hattie was six years old, living in 
both Manhattan and Brooklyn. Eventually, Hattie settled in Co-op City 
in the Bronx, where she has lived for 40 years.
  Hattie began her long career of service in Co-op, serving the NYC 
Department for the Aging, Co-op City NORC Advisory Board, and the Bronx 
Preparatory Charter School Parents Association Executive Board. She 
also has been active in her church, Co-op City Baptist Church, the 
Dreiser Retirees, and the Co-op City NAACP. Hattie has also been an 
outspoken supporter of our young people through the Youth and Community 
Affairs Committees.
  Even with her busy schedule, Hattie worked hard to receive a 
Bachelor's degree from Mercy College, and a Master's of Social Work 
from Fordham University.
  As a professional, Hattie dedicated herself to her work at the City 
of New York, where she served for 35 years. She was admired for her 
efforts with the Human Resources Administration, Health and Hospital 
Corporation, and as Director of Advocacy at the Administration for 
Children's Services.

[[Page E325]]

  As dedicated as she has been to the community, Hattie's true pride is 
the family she's raised in the Bronx, including one son, six 
grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. She also raises her 17-
year-old granddaughter, Ashley.
  Following Hattie's retirement from the City, she became the Program 
Director of the Co-op City Grandparent Connection Program. The program, 
under her leadership, grew into a necessity for her neighborhood; 
becoming the largest relative caregiver programs in New York City, 
which includes a myriad of services for deserving grandparents, 
adolescents, and children.
  After retiring in November 2014, Hattie continues to volunteer and 
use her sharp skills for her Co-op City community. It is an honor to 
join the JASA Grandparents Connection in celebrating Hattie on her 
retirement.