Identifying and Addressing Service Delivery Gaps for Seniors in Bedford-Stuyvesant

Quincy Senior Residence, founded in 2006 by Bridge Street Development Corporation (BSDC), provides affordable independent living apartments to low-income seniors in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Quincy offers a range of need-based, elective programs and services to its residents and members of the local community. BSDC requested a Capstone team to conduct a community needs assessment of seniors residing in Bedford-Stuyvesant, and to provide the organization with strategic recommendations to address some of the most significant gaps in services and programming. The team interviewed staff and community leaders, engaged seniors in a series of focus groups, and conducted a survey in partnership with local organizations. Taking into account the research findings, organizational capacity, potential funding sources, and best practices in senior services, the team developed both short and long-term recommendations for BSDC. Their report informed BSDC’s decision-making as the organization seeks to expand its services and further its mission in Bedford-Stuyvesant.