Photos: Edwin Freeman 

As Queens’ District 28 looks ahead to the spring 2025 City Council election, candidate Latoya LeGrand, founder of the influential Southeast Queens nonprofit Projects II Projects, is advancing a vision of community renewal rooted in family values and civic engagement.

“Our community’s strength comes from our families working together, supporting each other, and building for the future,” LeGrand shared during a recent community gathering at the Projects II Projects headquarters. “When we talk about bringing in the new New York, we need to start with empowering our families and strengthening the bonds that make our community resilient.”

LeGrand’s track record of community service through Projects II Projects has established her as a trusted voice in Southeast Queens. Her organization has been at the forefront of implementing programs that address critical community needs, from youth development initiatives to family support services.

“What sets our approach apart is that we’ve been doing this work on the ground, day in and day out,” LeGrand explains. “We understand the challenges our families face because we’ve been working alongside them, creating solutions together.”

As she campaigns for City Council, LeGrand shares her blueprint for community empowerment, drawing from her extensive experience in nonprofit leadership:

1. Build Strong Family Foundations

“Through Projects II Projects, we’ve seen firsthand how supporting families creates ripple effects throughout the community,” LeGrand notes. “Every program we develop starts with asking how it will strengthen family bonds.”

2. Empower Youth Leaders

Drawing from her organization’s successful youth programs, LeGrand emphasizes the importance of mentorship and leadership development. “Our young people aren’t just the future – they’re leaders right now, and we need to give them the tools to succeed.”

3. Foster Economic Opportunity

“Economic empowerment is crucial for family stability,” LeGrand states. “We need to expand job training programs, support small businesses, and create pathways to sustainable careers.”

4. Enhance Community Resources

LeGrand advocates for expanding access to essential services. “Every family deserves quality healthcare, education, and recreational facilities within their neighborhood.”

5. Promote Civic Engagement

“Change happens when communities come together and make their voices heard,” LeGrand emphasizes. “That’s been the cornerstone of our work at Projects II Projects.”

Looking ahead to the spring 2025 election, LeGrand’s campaign builds on her organization’s proven track record of community impact. Her leadership of Projects II Projects has demonstrated her ability to transform community aspirations into concrete results.

“This campaign is about bringing the same energy and commitment we’ve shown at Projects II Projects to city government,” LeGrand declares. “We’ve proven what’s possible when we invest in our families and communities. Now it’s time to scale these solutions across District 28.”

LeGrand continues her active community engagement through both her campaign and Projects II Projects’ ongoing initiatives. Her unique position as a nonprofit leader has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the district’s needs and potential.

“As we enter 2025, we have an opportunity to strengthen our community’s voice in city government,” LeGrand states. “When we focus on family values, support our youth, and work together, we create lasting positive change.”

Her campaign emphasizes practical solutions to community challenges, informed by years of hands-on experience in community service. Through Projects II Projects, LeGrand has already implemented many of the programs and initiatives she hopes to expand through public office.

“We’re not just talking about change – we’re already making it happen,” LeGrand concludes. “With your support in the spring 2025 election, we can bring these proven solutions to every corner of District 28.”

For more information about Latoya LeGrand’s campaign and Projects II Projects’ community initiatives, residents can visit her campaign office in Southeast Queens or attend one of her regular community forums.

The post Nonprofit Founder Latoya LeGrand Brings Grassroots Experience To District 28 Council Race appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: Edwin Freeman

In a strategic move to bolster her City Council campaign, Queens District 28 candidate Latoya LeGrand made a significant appearance at the Guy R. Brewer United Democratic Club’s Annual Holiday party on Saturday, December 15th, networking with some of New York City’s most prominent Democratic leaders.

The event, held against the backdrop of a critical upcoming election cycle, saw LeGrand rubbing shoulders with key political figures including New York Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. Her presence at this high-profile gathering signals a robust commitment to building political momentum for her Spring 2025 campaign.

LeGrand is positioning herself to succeed current Councilwoman Adrienne E. Adams, who is terming out of the District 28 seat. The upcoming election represents a critical opportunity for Democrats to maintain their local political representation in an increasingly competitive electoral landscape.

The holiday party provided an ideal platform for LeGrand to showcase her political acumen and solidify connections within the local Democratic establishment. By engaging directly with influential party leaders, she is laying the groundwork for a formidable campaign strategy.

As the political season heats up, LeGrand’s strategic networking and visible presence at key Democratic events underscore her ambition and determination to secure the City Council seat.

The post Latoya LeGrand Solidifies Democratic Connections At Guy R. Brewer United Democratic Club Holiday Celebration appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: Edwin Freeman

In the heart of South Jamaica, a beacon of hope and community spirit is set to illuminate the holiday season. Projects II Projects, under the leadership of founder Latoya LeGrand, is preparing for its annual Christmas Giveaway Event, scheduled for Friday, December 20, 2024.

The event, strategically timed to bring joy during the holiday season, will offer a variety of toys and Christmas surprises to local residents. Notably, NYCHA residents will receive first preference, underscoring the organization’s commitment to supporting those most in need within the community.

Running from 5:00 PM until toy supplies are exhausted, the giveaway represents more than just a charitable event. It symbolizes the ongoing dedication of Projects II Projects to uplift and support the South Jamaica community.

What makes this year’s event particularly significant is the dual mission of its founder. Latoya LeGrand is not only organizing this community-focused holiday celebration but is also mounting a campaign for the Queens District 28 City Council seat in the June 24, 2025 election.

The event comes as a collaborative effort, bringing together multiple community partners. Sponsors and collaborators include BTG, Target, The Freeman Foundation for the Arts, and Positive Project 40 Day, demonstrating the broad community support behind LeGrand’s initiatives.

“This giveaway is about more than just distributing toys,” LeGrand (above) shared. “It’s about creating moments of joy, building community connections, and showing our children that they are valued and supported.”

Community members interested in participating can contact LeGrand directly at legrandprojects1@gmail.com. The event not only promises to brighten the holidays for local families but also serves as a platform for community engagement and hope.

As LeGrand continues her campaign for City Council, this event stands as a testament to her commitment to community service and local empowerment.

The Christmas Giveaway Event invites residents to come together, celebrate the spirit of giving, and create lasting memories during the holiday season.

The post Local Community Organization Prepares For Festive Christmas Giveaway, Founder Eyes City Council Seat appeared first on Black Star News.

On a crisp December afternoon, I had the privilege of accompanying Latoya LeGrand, Queens District 28 City Council Candidate for the 2025 election and founder of a prominent Queens-based nonprofit Projects II Projects, to the 10th Annual Christmas Parade on Rockaway Boulevard in Southeast Queens, New York.

The parade, meticulously organized by Hope NYC, a local church known for its community engagement, was a vibrant celebration of holiday cheer and neighborhood unity. As we walked along the parade route, LeGrand’s commitment to community service was evident in her warm interactions with local residents and parade participants.

As founders of respective Queens-based nonprofits, we shared a mutual understanding of the importance of community involvement. My own organization, The Freeman Foundation for the Arts, has long believed in the power of bringing people together, and this parade embodied that spirit perfectly.

Our appearance at the parade also served as a preview of our upcoming collaborative effort – a toy drive scheduled for December 21, 2024. This event, hosted by Live Long Juice Bar, P.S. 40 Queens, and Eagle Academy, promises to bring joy to children across the community during the holiday season. We invite the community to contribute by bringing new, unwrapped toys to the Live Long Juice Bar before December 20th.

LeGrand, who is gaining momentum in her City Council campaign, used the opportunity to connect with constituents, listening to their concerns and sharing her vision for District 28. Her grassroots approach was warmly received by parade attendees.

The day was a testament to the power of community, celebration, and shared hope during the holiday season.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The post Latoya LeGrand, Queens District 28 City Council Candidate, Attends 10th Annual Christmas Parade On Rockaway Boulevard appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: Edwin Freeman

As the bustling city of New York continues to evolve, one community in Southeast Queens stands out for its unwavering spirit and rich cultural tapestry – District 28. This dynamic and diverse region, home to a mosaic of immigrant communities and long-standing residents, is poised for a transformative shift, thanks to the visionary leadership of City Council candidate Latoya LeGrand.

Latoya, a lifelong resident of Southeast Queens, understands the pulse of her community intimately. Having witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by small business owners, she has made supporting and funding community-based enterprises a cornerstone of her campaign platform.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,” Latoya declares passionately. “They not only provide essential services and employment opportunities, but they also serve as hubs of cultural exchange, weaving the rich diversity of our district into the fabric of our daily lives.”

Latoya’s commitment to empowering the small business community stems from her own experiences. As the founder of the non-profit organization, Projects II Projects Inc., she has seen the transformative power of grassroots initiatives. “I’ve witnessed the resilience and ingenuity of our local entrepreneurs,” she says. “They are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods, and we must do everything in our power to ensure their success.”

One of Latoya’s key initiatives, should she be elected to the City Council, is to establish a comprehensive small business support program. This multifaceted approach will include access to capital, tailored training and mentorship, and streamlined regulatory processes – all designed to nurture the growth and sustainability of community-based businesses.

“The cultural diversity of District 28 is our greatest strength,” Latoya emphasizes. “By supporting our local entrepreneurs, we can empower them to showcase the rich tapestry of cuisine, art, and traditions that make our community so vibrant and unique.”

From the bustling African markets of Jamaica to the lively Latin American enclaves of Richmond Hill, and the thriving Indo-Guyanese American community in the Little Guyana section, District 28 is a melting pot of cultures, each with its own story to tell. Latoya’s vision is to harness this diversity, transforming it into economic opportunities that benefit the entire community.

“When our small businesses thrive, our neighborhoods thrive,” Latoya asserts. “By investing in the heartbeat of our community, we can create a future where every resident feels a sense of belonging, pride, and the promise of a better tomorrow.”

As the Spring election approaches, Latoya LeGrand’s message of community empowerment and small business support resonates deeply with the people of District 28. With her unwavering commitment and a deep understanding of the unique needs of her constituents, she is poised to be a transformative force in the City Council, championing the growth and prosperity of this dynamic and diverse community.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The post Fostering Vibrant Neighborhoods: Latoya LeGrand’s Vision For Supporting Small Businesses In District 28 appeared first on Black Star News.

Hello, my name is Latoya LeGrand, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for City Council District 28. As a Southeast Queens resident of over 20 years, I have dedicated my life to the community that raised me, and now, I’m ready to serve in an even greater capacity.

Growing up in foster care and facing challenges as a young mother, I experienced firsthand the importance of community support, equity, and opportunity. Those experiences have driven my work and commitment to our neighborhood over the past two decades. From my journey advocating for housing equity with NYCHA to founding my non-profit, Projects II Projects Inc., I have seen how we can make real, impactful change for our community. I know we need leaders who truly understand the needs of our district and are prepared to amplify the voices of every resident.

My focus as your council representative will be on empowering our youth, enhancing education and literacy, securing fair and affordable housing, and supporting our families. 

I have worked to inspire and equip our young people, ensuring they have the tools they need to grow and succeed.

Our district deserves a council member who can navigate the challenges of policy and bring resources directly to our community. I am already working within the New York State Assembly, focusing on legislative changes that benefit our neighborhoods, and as Education Committee Chairperson of Community Board 12Q, I have worked to make literacy accessible for every child in our community.

As we look to the future, I am dedicated to championing initiatives that create pathways for youth, enhance support for families in need, and ensure fair housing for all. I will work to address the issues that matter most to us—from expanding access to affordable housing to increasing job opportunities and making sure our schools have the resources they need to help every child thrive.

This campaign is about bringing a voice to the people of District 28 and ensuring our community continues to grow stronger together. I invite you to join me in building a brighter future for Southeast Queens. Together, we can make our community a place where every person feels heard, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Thank you for your support and belief in our vision for a better District 28. I am ready to serve, and I am ready to work alongside you to bring meaningful change to our community.

Together, we are ONE and STRONG. 

The post Latoya LeGrand Announces Candidacy For City Council District 28 In Queens appeared first on Black Star News.