As we bid farewell to summer and another new school year kicks off, we reflect on all of this year's incredible programs and events. From the packed enrichment schedules at our Summer Rising programs, to our annual Directors Institute for staff, and a busy calendar of Family Fun Days and beloved Summer Concerts - Read on for more on how NIA made this summer one to remember!

9/11 Vigil

On the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, hundreds of community members gathered for NIA’s annual 9/11 Vigil at the American Veterans Memorial Pier to honor those we lost and pay tribute to the many heroes who gave their lives serving others on that day. Special thanks to Councilman Justin Brannan, State Senator Andrew Gounardes, and State Senator Iwen Chu for co-sponsoring and hosting this important event alongside NIA, and to our corporate sponsors, NYC Ferry and NYC Parks.

Thank you to the many guests and community members that attended, spoke, and performed at the vigil, including Senior FDNY Representative Captain Kristen Schafer; 68 Precinct Col. Alexander Young; US Army Corps of Engineers - NY District Andrew McClure; and numerous others. NIA thanks Rev. Brian P. Dowd, Rabbi Shaffin, and Imam Ahmed Ali Uzir who represented our faith communities with their messages of remembrance and hope. NIA would also like to thank the Xaverian High School Band and singer Scarlett London Diviney, who performed patriotic music and the national anthem; Girl Scout Troops 2122, and 2873; and Boy Scout Troops 13, 23, & 715, who paid tribute with the presentation of our nation’s colors.

directors institute

Each year, NIA hosts its annual Directors Institute, a three-day conference to support our after-school program leaders in preparing for the coming school year. The event brings together nearly 100 youth program leaders, including NIA after-school Program Directors and Assistant Program Directors, Program Supervisors, and senior managers for workshops on topics related to program quality, funder requirements, leadership, and supporting mental health in children. The Institute concluded on day three at Industry City, where the team came together for a day of networking and teambuilding. The Directors Institute would not be possible without the thoughtful and knowledgeable planning of NIA's Executive Director Annette Velez, Director of Program Operations Vera Ekht, Manager of Capacity Building Michele Basile, Director of Education Corinne Colosimo, Assistant Director of Program Operations Bianca Naco, and Program Supervisors Jennifer Padilla-Howard, Darryl Robinson, Jonathan Lugo, Kevin Richtback, Thomas Zaki, Ieeyana Nieves, and Travis Davis. Special thanks to Jennifer Pazmino (NYC Department of Youth and Community Development), Interborough Developmental and Consultation Center, Heal Haus, and Kazz Alexander Pinkard (TeachableNYC) for their supportive workshops.

summer concert Series

NIA's Summer Concert Series has come to a close, and we are honored to have once again hosted such an impressive lineup of local musicians and community supporters. Presented in partnership with Senator Andrew Gounardes and Councilman Justin Brannan, we were pleased to provide nine concerts this year, all with enthusiastic support from the community, with attendance numbers reaching as high as over 500 people for some events. Our final event, Irish Night on September 6th, was a true highlight, filled with an energetic crowd, food, and a captivating performance featuring traditional Irish music, stirring bagpipe melodies, and even a special appearance from the Fire Boat. We are adding one last special addition on Tuesday, 9/17, where we will have a Swing Band Concert at the Bay Ridge Center. Plans for 2025 Summer Concerts have already begun!

family fun days

NIA's successful Family Fun Day in Bay Ridge each summer expanded this year to five festive events across Bay Ridge, Coney Island, and Bensonhurst, thanks to support from Senators Andrew Gounardes and Iwen Chu, and Councilman Justin Brannan. These fun-filled days offered a variety of activities, including music, snacks, giveaways, games, and performances. NIA was so pleased to be joined by so many families to enjoy some summer fun!

book bag giveaway

NIA's August 10th Family Fun Day at Surf Playground included a book bag giveaway, in collaboration with Councilman Justin Brannan. Staff from NIA and Councilman Brannan's offices came together to pack 300 book bags with essential school supplies to help prepare children for the upcoming academic year and distributed them during the community event. Councilman Brannan's office generously provided additional books that were donated from Brooklyn Book Bodega to children in attendance.

national grid at nia

This summer, all middle school students in NIA Summer Rising programs participated in the CareerReady NYC Initiative, which encourages youth to make connections between their current interests and future career goals. As part of this initiative, in partnership with NIA, National Grid volunteers visited IS 187 to lead an impactful STEM career exposure activity. The students and volunteers from National Grid planted microgreens and engaged in discussions about sustainability and conservation. In alignment with the Exploring Futures curriculum, the volunteers shared details about their current careers and the passions and paths that led them to National Grid, inspiring the students to consider how they can incorporate their interests into their future endeavors. The event was a success, and we extend a heartfelt thank you to our partners at National Grid for their dedication to making this event possible and for investing in the education and growth of our youth.

END OF SUMMER RISING

NIA's Summer Rising programs closed out in August, after a summer full of exciting experiences for participants. Schedules were filled with hands-on STEM programming, career exploration activities, creative visual arts projects, sports and active play, field trips, and themed days to keep everyday fun and engaging for participants. JHS 227 hosted an outdoor carnival for their last week, complete with a bouncy castle and exotic animals. Some of their participants also got to enjoy a Broadway show and make their own stuffed animals with Bear Magic Workshop. PS 186 and PS 247 had a visit from the traveling circus, with their event Zabo Circus Day. A huge thank you to all of our dedicated Program Directors and Program Supervisors who made this a summer that the kids will not forget, and to the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development for their support of Summer Rising programming.

THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO AT NIA

Join us September, 17th for a new addition to our Summer Concert Series with a Swing Band at Bay Ridge Center!

NIA is excited to announce our new sessions of Parenting Journey. Sign up now! Limited seats available.

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NIA SOCIAL SERVICES ASSISTANCE

FAMILY SERVICES

NEW HIRES & PROMOTIONS

Nelson Nseka

Carey Gardens Community Center Asst. Director

Nelson Nseka is a proud resident of Coney Island, and we are thrilled to welcome him as the new Assistant Director of the Carey Gardens Community Center. With a background in working with children and experience at the YMCA, Nelson brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our community. His enthusiasm and positive attitude make him a perfect fit for our center, and we are confident that he will make a lasting impact on all those who walk through our doors. We are excited to have Nelson on board and look forward to seeing the positive influence he will have on our community.

Amonni Chavis
Carey Gardens Community Center Asst. Director

Amonni Chavis is a Brooklyn native with over 23 years of valuable experience and has held key positions such as Director/Sr. Case Manager at JCCGCI’s "Works Plus" Job Readiness Program and is also a published author and holds a ministry certificate. Her passion for serving others and creating positive change in her community has led her to her new role as the Carey Gardens Community Center Assistant Director. Amonni's dedication to uplifting and supporting those around her makes her a valuable asset to any organization she joins. We are thrilled to see the impact she will make in her new position.

Ashlyn Williams
IS 187 Assistant Program Director

Ashlyn Williams is a born and raised Brooklyn Bedford Stuy resident with a passion for arts education. After obtaining her degree in business administration from the borough of Manhattan community college, she pursued her love for dance by earning a bachelor's degree in dance. Since 2018, Ashlyn has dedicated her career to early childhood education and arts administration, serving as a dance teacher, choreographer, and owner of Purpose Performing Arts Collective. She brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role as Assistant Director of IS 187, where she is sure to make a lasting impact on the students of IS 187 and help them grow and succeed both in and out of the classroom.