Mercy Center Annual Report

CHAMPIONS YOUTH PROGRAMS
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The needs of South Bronx children are great. Mercy Center children live in a neighborhood
where poverty and violence surround them and where quality programs for children are severely
lacking. Children in our participant families often do not receive the academic support
they need to obtain a solid education, as their parents are unable to help due to limited English
or literacy skills. Mott Haven is ranked among the highest risk communities in New York
City for children in all data categories.
The ideas that we foster – mutual respect, conflict resolution, and compassion – are countercultural
in our neighborhood and in the lives of Mercy Center children. We employ a range of
strategies to empower children to reach their full potential and embrace non-violence.
Through CHAMPIONS, we provide children with educational support, ongoing encouragement,
and wider exposure to the neighborhoods and cultural attractions of New York City.
Children Have A Major Place In Our Neighborhood Services – CHAMPIONS!
Academic Year programs run from September through June and engage a core group of
students daily or weekly. These include our After School Program, Saturday Reading Enrichment,
Children's Chorus, and Resolve, a pregnancy prevention curriculum and support
group for teens.
Short-term and Ad Hoc Enrichment programs are scheduled throughout the year as resources
allow. These include Winter, Spring, and Summer Camps hosted by visiting college
students, and specialized camps and activities.
Special Partnerships provide enrichment opportunities through ongoing relationships
between Mercy Center and other service providers. Through these partnerships, Mercy
Center children take advantage of dance classes, performing arts camps, and sleep away
camp opportunities.