Joyce's Story

In the late 1960’s, Ms. Joyce served as Congressional Aid to the late Honorable Shirley Chisholm, working with her on daycare legislation, community service programs, and housing. Ms. Joyce also worked with several politicians and community leaders to develop a housing complex for senior citizens. She has served many years on Community Board 8 and played a significant role in the implementation of daycare and welfare reform legislation.

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She now serves as the President of the St. John’s Tenant Association. Ms. Joyce enjoys giving lectures to senior citizens, especially those who are physically challenged. As a competitive swimmer, Ms. Joyce has taken home several gold and silver medals in the Empire State Senior Games, inspiring others to take part in sporting events that encourage them to stay healthy.

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Joyce is an active member of her church at the Christian Cultural Center with a senior group known as the “Golden Saints.” She is known as a woman with class, poise, and dignity. Despite her physical challenges at 85 years old and undergoing four surgeries in the past ten years, she continues to dedicate her life serving others and to make a positive impact around her.

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As the former President of the St. John’s Recreation Senior Group, Ms. Joyce can’t stress enough the importance of physical activity and informational workshops that are conducted on site: “Activation prevents stagnation”. Such activities promote friendship and socialization amongst seniors in her community and help alleviate the sense of isolation so many older adults experience as a result of living alone, physical disabilities, improper health care, and other factors that contribute to the marginalization of the elderly population.​