Welcome to New York Afterschool Program

In which borough should your idea take place? Queens

Do you have a specific neighborhood(s) in mind?

Long Island City, Astoria, Woodside, Flushing, Jamaica, South Jamaica, Rockaway

Which audience(s) does your idea help? Select as many as apply.

Youth

Limited English proficient individuals

Low income individuals

Immigrants and/or migrants

Public housing residents

Describe the challenge you want to address:

- Immigrant youth may face bullying and social isolation for not knowing English.
- Our resident lacks adequate parental guidance because his single mother may be working
- He may be alone much of the time in his public housing complex, where he may be more exposed to and less protected from outside negative influences, such as crime, drugs, and older children (or adults) who engage in these activities.
- Lack of English could make him an easier target, and could make it harder for him to say no or to not get caught up in unsafe activities.
- As an eleven year old, he may have inflated self-confidence about his independence, ability to handle unsafe situations, and the need to listen to his mother. But because he is new to NYC and has limited English, he is more likely to get lost in the city and end up in unsafe places or scenarios.

Describe your idea and approach to address the challenge:

An afterschool program held at or near public housing complexes in Queens focusing on low-income immigrant youth. The program would provide English classes as well as lessons on safety, navigating New York City, resisting bad influences, and mental health. Healthy snacks, and possibly healthy meals, would be provided, taking into account cultural dietary restrictions. The program would ensure after-school supervision for kids who may lack it at home, are new to NYC, and may live in unsafe conditions.

Write the zipcode that best represents your New York City community:

11103