Office of Borough President James P. Molinaro

Staten Island, New York

B.P. Molinaro provides $1.5 million for “On Your Mark”

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – Borough President James P. Molinaro today announced that he has allocated $1.5 million in capital funding to “On Your Mark,” a non-profit organization that provides services for people with developmental disabilities.

      The money will help fund the Inclusive Community Center project that will transform On Your Mark’s new building into a state-of-the-art facility offering innovative programs such as fitness, aquatics, team sports, horticulture, computers, art, music, theatre, education, socialization, vocational training, and supported employment programs for more than 2,000 people with disabilities.

      “It is an honor to be able to aid in the revitalization of this building, which will ultimately be transformed into a community center that will benefit all Staten Islanders, particularly those with developmental disabilities,” Molinaro said.  “I am pleased to be able to help On Your Mark expand the exceptional service they provide to our Borough, and I am certain that the new center will go a long way toward helping to empower On Your Mark’s consumers and help integrate them into the community.”

      The Borough President was joined by Eugene Spatz, Executive Director of On Your Mark, who said: “We have a unique vision for this community center, and we are absolutely thrilled at the support that Borough President Molinaro has provided.  Our upgrade of the current facilities will truly make this a 21st century community center, and we are so proud to have the opportunity to help enhance the lives of Staten Island’s developmentally disabled residents.”

      Renovation of the 25,000 square foot center is expected to be completed by December 2010. 

September 24, 2008