Neighbor News
40 years of service to the Cascade community seniors
Quality Living Services (QLS) Celebrates 40 years
Quality Living Services (QLS) Senior Center Celebrates 40 Years of Service
Monday morning marked a significant milestone as the Quality Living Services (QLS) senior center celebrated its 40th anniversary of dedicated service to the community. The southwest Atlanta facility was bustling with excitement and filled to capacity, as expected for such a momentous occasion.
The ceremony drew dozens of public officials and politicians, all gathered to recognize QLS's unwavering commitment to providing programs that empower seniors to remain active and productive members of the community. Among those there were Ms. Sandra Lacefield and Irene Richardson, who conceived the idea for QLS in 1985 as a class project and have since seen it flourish into a thriving institution. The festivities were further enriched by the presence of Mrs. Eva Bird, a former QLS Board President, who attended at the remarkable age of 102.
The Honorable Judge Dr. Penny Brown Reynolds delivered the keynote address, captivating the audience with her rousing and heartfelt speech. She reminded everyone that their stories—and the story of QLS—are far from finished. Dr. Reynolds emphasized that this celebration was not merely an anniversary but a living testimony to resilience and purpose. She encouraged attendees to view age not as a burden but as a season to be embraced, assuring them that growing older does not equate to fading away. Her inspiring words resonated with the audience, drawing intermittent applause and culminating in a standing ovation.
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Following the keynote, QLS President Emma Fountain presented several awards to honor outstanding contributions, and then shared her own remarks with the gathering. The event was further enlivened by musical performances from the Herman Mitchell Trio and the QLS choir. The celebration was co-chaired by Trina Nkhazi and Carla Wiley. To cap off the festivities, attendees enjoyed a delicious meal together, fostering a strong sense of community and fellowship.
Dee Turner