Youth Programs
Our Youth Programs provides the children of Mercy Center’s families with academic support and enrichment activities in a safe and supportive environment.
Current Programs Include:
After School Program – We offer the children of Mercy Center families a safe space where each child is encouraged to grow academically, socially and creatively. With caring, responsible adults and engaging activities, we connect each child to his/her school, family and community. We provide homework help and educational opportunities that foster creative ways to learn and have fun! In addition, we offer enrichment activities such as robotics, dance, arts and crafts, games and separate boys and girls groups. Open to children of Mercy Center adult participants.
Dance – House of the Roses (HOTR), a volunteer dance company, offers our children in grades K-5 an opportunity to experience creative self-expression through dance. These dance sessions are designed to foster freedom of expression, healthy role modeling, self-esteem and respect for others. Registration is open to children in the community.
Robotics and Coding – Mercy Center and Bricks 4 Kidz started working together in the Fall of 2019 to offer enrichment in STEM concepts (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). In Spring of 2020, during the pandemic, Mercy Center offered virtual coding classes in small groups for grades 2-3 and 4-7. Children worked on developing critical problem-solving and design skills while building video games with multiple levels, creating animals of their own. In September 2021, we transitioned back to in person learning through our weekly hands on project based Robotics Program. We continue to offer children in grades 2-3 and 4-7 robotics/coding classes twice a week. This program continues to build upon their virtual learning experience by challenging them to excel in Science, Technology Engineering and Math. Open to children in Mercy Center After School Youth Programs staff, L to R: Marianne Sheridan, Manager of Youth Programs, Fabiola Benitez, and Maria Hernandez
Saturday Reading Enrichment (SRE) – Trained high school, college, and adult volunteers provide one-on-one reading support to children in grades K-5, who score in the lower percentile in reading. Priority given to children of Mercy Center adult participants.
Summer Day Camp – we offer a 4-week Summer Camp during the month of July, offering our children a safe environment to learn and have fun! Our Camp is designed to offer hands-on learning opportunities through recreational activities, social growth, and fun, educational field trips. Through these opportunities, our children develop skills in teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. Registration is open to children in Mercy Center’s After School, with a limited number of spots available to children of Mercy Center adult participants.
Fiver Children’s Foundation Partnership – The Fiver Children’s Foundation offers boys and girls from underserved communities the opportunity to attend a two-week tuition-free camp each summer at a rural upstate site. Fiver begins a ten-year commitment to families when children are in third grade, and also provides enrichment activities throughout the year. Designated as a local partner in 2003, a limited number of spots are available to children in Mercy Center Youth Programs each year.
FUNDERS
Thanks to our supporters!
We are very grateful for the generosity of the individuals, groups, businesses, foundations, and friends that partner with us to provide education, family, civic, social, and economic programs to the residents of the Mott Haven section of the South Bronx. Together, we’re making a difference in the lives of the women, men and families that reside in our community.
