STEAM Enrichment for Bronx Youth

• Original Idea Voted on by New Yorkers: A youth project that offers free therapy and an assortment of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities for youth to build their confidence.

• Implementing Organization: Bronx River Art Center

• Neighborhoods: Fordham, University Heights, Belmont, and East Tremont

• Funding Amount: $200,000

The responses below are directly from the community organizations selected to implement The People’s Money projects.

How does your organization plan to bring this idea to life?

BRAC will bring the STEAM Enrichment for Bronx Youth project to life by expanding our established middle and high school programs to integrate arts, STEAM, and environmental learning. Programming will take place at BRAC’s 18,000 sq. ft. facility in West Farms Square and at partner sites, including Drew Gardens, Bronx River Community Garden, and Bronx River Alliance.

Students in MSCreate (ages 10–14) and Teen Project Studio (ages 14–19) will engage in small-group instruction, one-on-one mentorship, and collaborative projects with professional teaching artists and community partners. Workshops include creative identity and fashion design, urban farming and plant science, water ecology, music and movement, robotics and coding, and nature-based mindfulness. Participants’ growth will be tracked through portfolios, reflection journals, peer feedback, and teacher observations, ensuring they build creative confidence, problem-solving skills, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging while accessing high-quality, culturally relevant STEAM experiences.

What motivated your organization to apply to implement this idea?

BRAC applied to bring this project to life because we believe every Bronx youth deserves a place to explore, create, and grow beyond the classroom. With decades of experience delivering high-quality arts and STEAM programming, we are uniquely qualified to combine creative expression, environmental engagement, and hands-on learning in ways that build confidence, resilience, and critical problem-solving skills. Our fully equipped studios, strong community partnerships, and talented teaching artists allow us to offer transformative experiences where youth not only make art but develop skills, discover their passions, and connect deeply with their community. This project creates a vibrant space for Bronx youth to dream big, learn boldly, and thrive.

How do you think this project will make a difference in your community?

This project will make a meaningful difference in the Bronx by giving youth a safe, welcoming, and culturally relevant space to explore, create, and discover their passions. Through hands-on arts, STEAM, and environmental learning, participants develop not only skills but also confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. By following their curiosity, expressing themselves, and engaging with the natural world, youth strengthen their social-emotional growth, leadership abilities, and connection to their community. This program empowers the next generation to grow with heart, creativity, and vision, while fostering stronger ties to each other and the neighborhoods they call home.

List at least one thing you're excited about related to this project!

We’re most excited about creating a vibrant space where Bronx youth feel empowered to explore, create, and grow alongside their peers and community. By bringing curiosity and play into learning, students dive into hands-on experiences in visual art, music, performance, and STEAM fields like engineering, robotics, and design. Workshops in fashion, urban farming, water ecology, and nature-based mindfulness help youth build technical skills while nurturing confidence, resilience, and creative problem-solving.

Beyond skill-building, students create portfolios, collaborate on projects, and engage with their neighborhoods, strengthening connections and fostering leadership. Partnering with local organizations—like Bronx River Alliance, Drew Gardens, JJ Grant, LEGO Education, and Musical Ears/ Afterschool Collective—ensures learning is hands-on, real-world, and deeply rooted in the community. We’re thrilled to see youth discover their passions, express themselves, and grow into lifelong learners and creative leaders who will make meaningful contributions to the Bronx and beyond.

How can someone participate or stay up to date on the project?

Visit the Bronx River Art Center website at www.bronxriverart.org or follow our social media channels on Instagram and Facebook. Community members can also contact BRAC directly at (718) 589-5819 or via email at info@bronxriverart.org for program details and registration information.

Website: https://bronxriverart.org/
Instagram: @bronxriverartcenter
Facebook: @bronxriverartcenter