Alvin Gamble makes history as the first African American to serve on the Colonie Town Board

Alvin Gamble made history in November when he became the first African American to be elected to the Colonie Town Board.

Gamble moved to Colonie from Albany when he was 5 years old. He says when he moved here, there were not a lot of families of color. He says growing up he had a hard time fitting in. He let his parents know he wasn’t happy.

"I did not understand why they wanted to move to Colonie and be here with people who did not look like me and being teased and picked on," said Gamble.

However, things got better. Gamble says when he learned how to dribble a basketball in 7th and 8th grade, he was accepted by his peers.

"And then everything changed from then on. I got accepted. I had friends, and then I grew to love the town," said Gamble.

Gamble has worked for National Grid for close to 40 years. He is a deacon at Mount Zion Baptist Church. His involvement in the community was a reason why he ran for office.

"I had been asked about two or three times. People have always said that just the way that my diverse friends and the businesses that I’m involved in," said Gamble.

For Gamble, he is aware that he is the first African American to serve on the town board, but he says he never played the race card.

"I wanted to be known for my capabilities, my education and my willingness to do the job." said Gamble.

Gamble is serving a four-year term. He is hoping he can be an inspiration to others.