EAC Network, the Hempstead-based human services agency, is celebrating its 50th year of uninterrupted service to people in need across Long Island and New York City.
Its year-long celebration culminated in a special Golden Anniversary Gala on Nov. 20 at the Fox Hollow in Woodbury. The event honored Geraldine Hart, Commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department, and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner of the Nassau County Police Department, for their dedicated service to Long Island communities.
“Today, much of EAC Network’s vital work is intertwined with the police and courts,” said Lance W. Elder, President & CEO of EAC Network. “We are extremely proud to honor the leadership and law enforcement efforts of both commissioners, which enable EAC Network to save youth from being sexually exploited, prevent child motor vehicle fatalities, rescue fragile seniors, and support so many more underserved populations. We are incredibly grateful for these partnerships that are transforming lives and building safer communities.”
EAC Network was founded during a time and place in history when social forces in the United States put forth a major effort to battle poverty, crime, drugs, and racism. In 1969, volunteers came together to address the community’s growing unmet needs. Over the next 50 years, EAC Network’s mission expanded to empower, assist, and care for over 82,000 people in need including youth in foster care, child victims of abuse, families struggling with basic needs, individuals battling addiction and mental illness, vulnerable seniors maintaining independence, and many more.
Katie Beers, local kidnapping and abuse survivor turned best-selling author/inspirational speaker, has been a long-time advocate for EAC Network, particularly its Child Advocacy Center. She was a special guest speaker fat the gala.
To learn more about EAC Network’s Golden Anniversary Gala, visit eac-network.org/event/50th-anniversary-gala.
