Who We Are:

two_paintersSunnyside United Neighborhood Network (SUNN), in existence since 2001, is a nonprofit community organization working to create a better, more harmonious Sunnyside through graffiti-removal, crime prevention, and neighborhood beautification. We partner with the local police department, residents, businesses, religious organizations, and government officials like Councilman Eric Gioia and Assemblywoman Catherine Nolan. The area we care for extends from 39th to 52nd Streets and from Barnett Avenue to Queens Blvd.
(see our zone map)

What We Do:

We sponsor neighborhood cleanups throughout the year bringing together local volunteers to remove graffiti whenever it appears in our community.

  • We manage maintenance teams to remove graffiti on an on-going basis. This is what makes the biggest impact, and where we need the most help from volunteers.
  • In a partnership with the Postal Service, we help residents to “adopt” mailboxes and supply them with special paint to keep them graffiti-free.
  • We work with schools and youth groups to educate kids about the problem and make them part of the solution.
  • For property owners, we offer low-cost power washing services throughout the year.

How We See It:

paintingboxGraffiti isn’t a victimless crime; it hurts property values, discourages commerce, and brings a sense of blight and lawlessness to a community. The best way to manage graffiti is to remove it as soon as it appears. For this reason, we equip residents and business owners with paint and supplies to cover over any new “tags” that may appear on their property. Our strategy works! Graffiti “artists” want people to see the fruits of their labors and if it promptly disappears, the vandals move on. You may have seen the results around the neighborhood: freshly-painted store gates and walls, graffiti-free buildings, new trees along 48th Street, and spring bulbs everywhere!

How We Help You:

  • For property owners. If you pay for supplies, we’ll provide the muscle to power wash and seal the brick or masonry surfaces of your building.
  • For local commerce. SUNN will help paint your store gates and supply you with paint to keep the front of your business looking great.
  • For residents. If you are tired of looking at graffiti in your area, become one of our volunteers. We’ll provide supplies and training if you supply the elbow grease.
  • For religious, educational and civic groups. Our activities make great community service projects for your members or students. Some of our hardest-working volunteers come from church youth groups.

Download the Graffiti Fighter’s Guide to a Cleaner Community

View our our Supporters here

SUNN does not, directly or indirectly endorse any candidate for any political office.
SUNN does not donate or contribute to any candidate’s campaign.
SUNN does not participate in political fundraising events or otherwise solicit contributions to any political campaign.
SUNN does not distribute statements for or against any candidate for office.
SUNN does not engage in any other activity that may favor or oppose a candidate.