Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club Recognizes Four

By Jennifer L. Warren

POUGHKEEPSIE – Pastor Maeola Farquharson made absolutely certain to include quotes in her remarks from the two transformative men whose honor she had just received and the Luncheon was named after: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

Quoting Douglass, Farquharson said, “It is easier to build strong children, than to repair broken men.” She then relayed a famous Lincoln line, “Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Both statements- and men- “whose shoulders” she is building on “for all they have done around the world,” lie at the epicenter, serving as unwavering inspiration for Farquharson’s journey and purpose.

“I believe our children are our future, and broken men and women give what through the years has built up in them, so teaching our children good character builds strength, strong values and equips them for the future and to help serve others,” said Farquharson, who has been working at the Gathering of Faith Assembly in Poughkeepsie for the past 43 years, mentoring and teaching God’s word to countless individuals, equipping them with the tools to serve. “Lincoln’s words are another truth I live by, choosing happiness, not because my life has been easy, but because I have seen how kindness, dedication and consistency can turn even the darkest moments into opportunities of light.”

Farquharson, along with three other “illuminated” individuals who have exemplified the essence-“leadership, integrity and service”- of what historic trailblazers Lincoln and Douglass represent and the vision they knew was possible, were recognized at Saturday’s 105th Annual Lincoln-Douglass Luncheon hosted by the Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club.

The four hour event, which not only included special recognitions to the honorees, but featured; praise dancing, motivational music provided by a DJ, a moving mime presentation as well as priceless networking-bonding opportunities among guests contributing an eclectic mix of roles, prides itself on being much more than an award venue.

“This is a tribute to the community’s strength and resilience, honoring the legacy of Lincoln and Douglass,” explained Julia Henry, Poughkeepsie Neighborhood President. “It’s celebrating the impact of the honorees and inspiring future leaders.”

The potency of that motivational foundation for youth could be spotted in another honoree, Roy D. Watterson, who formed the non-profit, Roy’s Community Foundation, aimed at empowering youth through his summer football camp. Much more than a place to hone football skills, Ray’s Foundation provides life essentials, leaving a lasting, uplifting impact on its young members.

“We provide counseling, food to go home with, and I make sure to give lots of hugs, ‘I love yous,’ and ‘you are worthy’ words to these kids,” said Watterson, who the children lovingly call “Uncle Roy,” was an All-American football standout at Marist College and whose gridiron days started at age 8. “This honor means a lot; I was raised to always give back, and it’s extra special because it honors two great men.”

That symbolic meaning accompanying being an honoree was also deeply felt by another recipient, Pastor Jason Elder. A minister at the Reformed Church of Poughkeepsie for the past eight-and-a half-years, Elder is intent upon accessibility and inclusion in all that he does.

“I want to be available to help others as well as the church to be a community church for all and for neighbors to really know we are there for them and not just a building,” said Elder. “This recognition is special because it is in the spirit of Lincoln and Douglass, people who showed us a better way forward, while standing for justice, equality and fairness.”

Rounding out the esteemed honorees was over 40 year City of Poughkeepsie community volunteer and advocate, Ruth Jackson-Cromedy. Whether it’s delivering a meal, locating a safe place of shelter, offering a listening ear, navigating legal issues or any other critical need, Jackson has diligently, passionately and selflessly been looking out for the best interests of her community members. It’s not work she pursues for any monetary purpose, recognition or other compensation; something higher calls her.

“God pulled me to do this work; God has recognized me through my journey of being a cancer survivor as well as single mother to six daughters who are also continuing this work, something my mother and grandmother did as well,” said Jackson-Cromedy. “It’s a calling, and what keeps me going, even through the challenging times, is I know deep down the people-ones I never, ever judge and just try to help- are truly worth it.”

Just as Farquharson relayed powerful quotes from the icons who the occasion was named after, capturing the spirit of this over century old, going strong event, she too had some memorable words of her own, summing up what lies at the core of all four of its honorees.
“I believe we are blessed to bless others.”