
Larinda C. Hooks has spent her life dedicated to uplifting others and transforming communities—work that has defined her service as the newly elected Assembly Member for District 35. A lifelong community organizer and civil rights advocate, Larinda’s focus has always been on improving the quality of life for all. Larinda’s passion for community development took shape early in her career. As President of the Ericsson Street Block Association, she represented her neighbors in the 25th and 27th Avenues area. This commitment deepened when she joined the East Elmhurst-Corona Civic Association (EECCA), where she served as President of the Executive Board. At the East Harlem Council for Community Improvement, part of the Acacia Network under the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), Larinda worked to enhance the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. She served as Vice Chairperson of the Board Members at Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, Inc. Her success in this role led to her next career as Vice President of Older Adult Services and Economic Development.