by Briana Barnes, Program Coordinator, Hammel Houses Cornerstone Community Center Our second annual Color Run was a colorful celebration filled with energy, laughter, and summer fun! Participants came together for an exciting day featuring vibrant color powder, water activities, teamwork, and plenty of smiles. From head to toe, everyone embraced the colors while creating unforgettable memories with friends and staff. Our Color Run continues to be a summer favorite, bringing o

Unlike many town hall events, the Beacon Program at M.S. 226 in South Ozone Park, Queens, didn’t feature politicians. Instead, this town hall featured a group of people who may be even more important: our youth. Billed as the Youth & Youth Leaders Town Hall, the event was hosted by the program’s Youth Council and facilitated by Beacon Youth Council members Alicia, MiaJane, Ava, and Youth Council Group Leader Reachell, all of whom are rising seventh graders. These driven, comm

We are thrilled to share that one of our own has been featured as a Student of NYC! Students of NYC, an initiative of the United Federation of Teachers, celebrates New York City public school students who are shaping better futures for themselves and their communities. Before graduating in June, Serenity attended Rockaway Park High School for Environmental Sustainability, an NYC Community School where The Child Center of NY serves as lead community-based organization. In her

Before starting the WIOA Learn & Earn program at The Child Center of NY, I had recently immigrated to the U.S. and found myself navigating an unfamiliar education system. As a first-generation student, I didn't have enough guidance or the mentorship I needed to pursue my career goals. I was introduced to WIOA through my guidance counselor, and I saw it as an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop professional skills, as well as earn college credits, which is what