Senate Resolution No. 178 BY: Senator BRESLIN COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that the quality and character of life in the communities across New York State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program; and WHEREAS, Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program (TRIP), Inc. was created in 1968 to assist low- and moderate-income families in Troy, New York, achieve the dream of home ownership; it expanded over the years to meet the growing housing needs of area residents; and WHEREAS, Today, TRIP is a comprehensive community development not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission of connecting individuals and families with resources and knowledge to live in desirable homes and create vibrant sustainable communities; and WHEREAS, TRIP embodies its mission through providing quality affordable rental units, engaging in community-building and developing resident leaders, and promoting successful and sustainable home ownership; and WHEREAS, Vincent (Vinny) Lepera served as the first Executive Director of TRIP; and WHEREAS, Over past 50 years, TRIP has assisted over 1,000 individuals and families; this vital organization has rehabbed more than 75 buildings and over 200 apartments that are or were part of its portfolio; currently, there is one building that is ready for a complete rehab located in the Hillside North neighborhood of Troy; and WHEREAS, Remaining true to its mission, TRIP's ongoing endeavors and notable achievements have significantly contributed to bettering the quality of life in its community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program.