There was certainly an unmistakable air of enthusiasm, excitement and community in the room, as every potential patron that walked through the doors was welcomed with a handshake and a hug — and given a tour of the facility, if requested. 

By 9:30 a.m., more than 50 members had already signed up — and dozens were still coming through the doors.

Suresh and Kusum Gamadia were the very first two people to cross the threshold, looking to become new members.

“We are so very excited,” exclaimed Kusum Gamadia. “We don’t have anything like this where we live in Sunset Park.”

Suresh Gamadia said he expects to come here “a few times a week, if not every single day.”

Sonia Valentin, a senior from Bensonhurst, described the facility as “fantastic.”  

“This is my first time here,” Valentin said. “I saw photos of the center online, and was very impressed. This is truly the payoff for all the work and the tax money us seniors have contributed throughout the years — a place like this. I cannot wait to use the amenities. ”

The BRC will feature — among other things — specially designed activity rooms, including a strength training gym with equipment from Germany and software from Singapore, a technology learning lab equipped with computers and tablets, an art room for classes and art therapy, a music appreciation studio and a health and wellness room, which will feature members of Maimonides hospital coming and working with older adults on their specific needs.

And members will also receive hot meals in the center’s expansive dining room/café. 

With regard to cost, the BRC team set out with a fundraising goal of $5 million — and with the help of federal, state, and private donors, they secured roughly $4 million. 

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-11), who secured $2 million in Housing and Urban Development funding for the new center, also made an appearance this morning and addressed the crowd.

“It’s so exciting to see the final product here,” Malliotakis said. “Our seniors deserve this center. You’ve worked hard your whole lives, and it’s important that you have a place to socialize, to play games, and to exercise your mind and your body.”  

For decades, the BRC has operated out of the 4,700-square-foot basement of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, offering hot meals, vital community education and engagement programs, and social services that help older adults meet their basic needs. 

Fliedner said this new building allows us to better serve several Brooklyn neighborhoods, such as Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Fort Hamilton, and Sunset Park, with a large and growing older adult population.