Center for Children
Begun as an after school program in response to the needs of working immigrant families, the YWCA of Queens has provided thirty years of quality care and services in an open, nurturing and diverse learning environment. Once parents enroll their children as a young YWCA member, they can take advantage of the wonderful, affordable programs and services throughout their children's development. Ranging from core programs such as the Early Learning Center, After School and Korean School to seasonal programs and special events like Summer Camp and the Summer Literacy Festival, there are opportunities for children as young as three to high school. Evident among our members, we take pride in knowing that families of different generations have entered our doors and become part of the YWCA family.
Early Learning Center
The YWCA of Queens Early Learning Center has provided pre-school aged children with a safe, nurturing, enriching and stimulating environment in which they can grow and learn. As a result, we have continued to offer a quality education that incorporates arts, music, science, math and literacy–all at an adaptive level for each individual.
The YWCA of Queens believes that a quality program should provide enriching experiences which facilitate a child's cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth. We strive to meet the developmental needs and temperament of each individual child by working in partnership with families.
One of the most successful programs we have offered since 2000 is
Universal Pre-Kindergarten. Funded by the NYC Department of Education, UPK is a free, quality program open to all 4 year olds residing in the Flushing Area. The 2½ hour session (9am to 11:30am) is free for children who turn four years old in the current school calendar. Space is limited to 64 students per year.
Spring registration is taking place right now. For more information, contact us at 718.353.4553.
As a new addition, the
Early Childhood Enrichment Program is an affordable program designed to prepare 4-5 year olds with the skills needed to enter Kindergarten. Offered in the afternoon (12:30pm to 3:00pm), parents can take comfort in knowing that their children are in the right hands for knowledge and care. Space is limited to 10 children.
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After School Program
As the oldest of our programs, the YWCA of Queens After School program offers a diverse and engaging mix of programming that is culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and based on a youth development model that seeks to strengthen a student's internal and external assets. Following arrival and lunch, all children participate in Homework Help and Tutoring. Tutoring is offered by qualified teachers or college students who are experienced in working with children age 5 to 12 years old. For children without homework or other academic assignments, staff provides books for reading, and other academically based activities. In addition, special activities such as Piano Studio, arts and crafts and kumdo foster creative and artistic development of our participants.
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Korean School
As one of the oldest Korean schools in Queens, the YWCA Korean School has been striving to help the 1.5 or 2nd generation Korean-American children understand Korean culture, roots, and tradition through the Korean language education. Students are encouraged to participate in several competitions such as Korean language speech competition, and translation. In addition, through the cross-cultural programs, students learn to embrace and appreciate their bicultural identity.
The graduates of Korean School are proud of being their heritage, and contribute to all different fields of society by using their Korean bilingual skills.
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Summer Literacy Festival
Since 2000, the Literacy Festival has been a cultural treasure for children and families in the community. Started through the corporate sponsorship of HSBC Bank USA, N.A., this festival is held every summer to foster literacy among our youth in the diverse immigrant community. Each year, we combine more innovative and traditional programs to promote literacy awareness and cultural diversity.
Drawing 500 members and people from the community, the festival offers a positive experience to all members of the family, allowing parents to get involved in different literacy activities with their children. Ranging with the very popular Spelling Bee Contest, Essay Writing Contest, and Drawing Contest and the Poster Competition, children and youth have opportunities to participate in different competitions. For our young readers, a special guest is invited to read during Story Time. Additionally, they can enjoy the Book Fair, Magic Show, Moon Bouncer, and Painting. "Let's Play with Music" by EnoB allows children to play and sing along to familiar and favorite tunes with musical instruments.
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Summer and Vacation Camps
One of our most important programs is the YWCA of Queens Summer Day Camp. Since 1987, the Summer Day Camp has been a reliable and unique program for children to acquire leadership and academic skills, and make many friends during their summer break. We focus on developing the whole child through programs that support children's social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. We do this by designing programs that help youths develop communication skills, engage in problem solving, and learn through critical thinking. Every camper enjoys our weekly themed trips, and enhancement classes, such as Dance, Computers, Music, Martial Arts, and Arts & Crafts. And year after year, we look forward to seeing returning campers back at the YWCA for another fun and enriching summer. The program finishes off with a special presentation and a book fair for everyone to view and enjoy.
Observing the NYC Department of Education calendar, the winter and spring vacation camps are mini versions of summer camp. Offering a break for both parents and children, these camps run a week long with various enriching activities and optional extended hours.
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Center for Youth (e.g., Youth Night)
The Center for Youth at the YWCA of Queens has become the epicenter for diverse young people to come together in one accord. Though the center was established in 1986, the YWCA's history with youth dates as far back as 1981 (e.g., Y Teen Club). The Youth center currently runs three major programs: L.E.A.D. Program (Leadership, Employment, and Academic Development), YW-Access (GED Preparation), and Project C.I.T.Y. (Community Involvement Through YWCA). In tandem with these programs are Youthology (Writers Circle) and special events throughout the year (e.g., Career Night).
Since its establishment, the Youth Center has grown in size in serving both in-school and out-of-school youth. Moreover, it has established its reputation as a provider of quality education for GED preparation and job training by hiring qualified GED teachers and an Employment Specialist to join the team. And it has taken a holistic approach in working with youth by interweaving emotional support into all its programs, The challenge of engaging, and motivating out of school youth to walk a path of productivity is met with great enthusiasm, and the practice of repeated reinforcement coupled with encouragement. Knowing full well that communities cannot thrive without the health, prosperity and involvement of the young residents, the YWCA will continue to address the needs of the youth and together, raise the next generation.
L.E.A.D. Program (Leadership, Employment & Academic Development)
Funded through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), the L.E.A.D. program is an out-of-school workforce development program for youth age 16-21. Designed for youth wishing to enroll in higher education and/or obtain competitive employment, program participants can earn their GED while focusing on employment training skills and/or college preparation. Students have access to comprehensive services such as ESOL assistance, work readiness trainings, counseling, employment assistance and other related workshops.
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YW-Access
YW-Access is funded by the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and the Korean American Community Foundation. Since its inception in November 2000, the YW-Access program has helped over 500 out-of- school youth, age 17 to 24. Through GED classes, job readiness workshops, counseling, and leadership workshops, the young adults are given a second chance to equip and improve their lives, and become productive members of our society. Ethnic diversity is one of the assets of YW-ACCESS. Students learn to accept and understand different cultures.
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Project C.I.T.Y.
Community service has always been the major component of Project C.I.T.Y. (Community Involvement Through the YWCA). Project C.I.T.Y. provides safe and meaningful community service learning opportunities, while exploring pertinent issues through innovative and creative workshops. Originating from Project S.C.A.L.E. in 1996, it is currently a volunteer and community program that places youths, age 14-21, at various volunteer sites (educational, career-oriented or community based), including the YWCA of Queens. In addition to the chance to engage in group community projects, Project C.I.T.Y. offers various career development workshops.
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Participants who volunteer for 100 hours or more will receive the President's Volunteer Service Award, created by The President's Council on Service and Civic Participation in 2003. On October 20, 2006, 24 Project C.I.T.Y. participants were selected to receive President's Volunteer Service Awards. Among them, 6 students volunteered more than 200 hours within a 12 months period, donating their time and talents through Project C.I.T.Y.
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Youthology
‘Youthology', is a quarterly newsletter created and operated by YWCA youth age 14-21. It allows participants to openly express their opinions and views and communicate them to the Queens community. Participants in the program have a thirst for knowledge and curiosity about the general state of affairs which they transmit through their research, discussions and writing. They meet every Friday at 5 pm to discuss and write about politics, economics, social, arts and cultural issues, including events at the YWCA.
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For the latest Youthology issue or past issues, please click
here.
Special Event at a Glance: Youth Night
YWCA of Queens holds annual youth events that promote knowledge and free expression of one's heritage, culture and self. "Youth Night is a youth cultural event that expresses the cultural diversity and teaches youth their own culture as well as those of others. College forum, Essay poster competition are part of this night that prepares them for a greater future. Youth community members are provided workshops and events that challenge and inform them in regards to societal issues, including college, career preparation, job interview skills, safe sex, STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease), and drug and violence prevention.
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Center for Adults and Social Services
The Center for Adults and Social Services offers educational programs, job training programs, recreational and health programs to improve YWCA of Queens members' quality of life. Since our inception, we have served both new and established immigrants in our community through the means of education, health services and recreational and social activities. Understanding the difficulties of accessing services and adjusting to the new ways of life, the center provides an array of services to educate members and the community who have language barriers about free and affordable resources and help out with the cultural adjustment and resettlement of immigrant adults.
Adult ESOL Classes/Civics Classes
The YWCA English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program exists to educate the Queens community, particularly the immigrant population. For thirty years, we have assisted families in becoming acclimated to life in America by providing free English classes with workshops that address their needs (access to services and supportive networks). Taught by highly qualified and dedicated teachers, ESOL classes are designed to inform students of the rules of the English language, gain understanding of American life and culture, and provide a place for them to practice and improve their communication skills as a community of English language learners.
When students enter the ESOL program, our staff provides a free assessment of their English language level to place them in the appropriate classroom. These classes are designed to meet the individual needs of the students. With classes in session in the morning, afternoon, and night, students have the freedom to find the class that fits into their schedule. An average ESOL class at the YWCA has a fifteen to one teacher ratio, providing the ideal atmosphere for group learning. At the YWCA, the goals of the student and teacher are intertwined. For instance, when a student signs up for the ESOL program in hopes of finding a job, communicating with their child's teacher, or learning how to converse with their customers, the teacher customizes their lessons to meet the students' needs, and helps them achieve their goals. Here at the YWCA of Queens, we aim to increase knowledge and empower individuals so that together we may build a thriving community.
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Essay Writing Class
English language learners have the chance to improve their writing skills twice a week at the YWCA of Queens. This class is geared for students who wish to take the TOEFL, SATs or the GED exam. It also provides students tips to write their college admission essays and cover letters for jobs. Students will not only achieve their goals but will learn to appreciate writing as an essential tool for communication and success.
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Small Group Computer Literacy Class
The Vocational Training Program focuses on computer training to help people adapt to the fast changing information technology and learn employable skills. Students are encouraged to attain computer-related certificates and test their skills through practice exams. The ultimate goal is for students to find employment and continue enhancing their computer skills.
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Financial Literacy Workshops
WI$E UP is a financial literacy program targeted for women in their 20s to 40s. As the newest resource to the center, the free workshops provide information on important topics such as banking, credit, investments and taxes. Taught by experts, participants learn in a bilingual friendly environment and have opportunities to ask questions. It is our hope that participants will be empowered to make smart decisions and avoid debt.
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Fee Based Classes
For a small price, members can take advantage of the fun activities offered at the YWCA of Queens. From yoga to dance sports to handicraft classes, women can take classes in a nurturing, fun environment making new friends in the community.
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Handicraft League
Established in 1980, the purpose of the Handicraft League is to provide an intimate, social space for women to share their talents and skills and preserve the tradition of handicraft. As a volunteer run group, the women gather weekly to contribute their time and talent in creating beautiful handmade artwork and crafts. Their creation (e.g., quilts, dolls, canvas artwork, cultural pieces) is shared with the community through presentation and sales which goes to support the work of the YWCA. Anyone who wishes to join this tradition is welcome.
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Seasonal Programs and Special Events
The center serves immigrants in our community with limited English proficiency and lack of access to social services by holding different events such as citizenship application services, tax preparation services, and health related services.
Health Fairs and Flu Shots
Each year, we hold health events catered to Asian women in collaboration with local organizations especially in celebration of Women's History Month. The event includes workshops on depression, diet, adult diseases, and other information, paying attention to women of particular age ranges (e.g., pre and post menopause). Doctors and nurses from partnering agencies volunteer their time to provide free medical check-ups and consultations. We also provide free flu vaccinations funded by the New York Department of Health for senior-citizens. Whether we host the fairs or participate in fairs offered by local agencies, we believe that health awareness and getting access to services are key to optimizing healthy living and longetivity.
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Advocacy Efforts
We understand that providing services alone is not enough to ensure the needs of the community. Home to the largest and most diverse immigrant community, we are challenged with meeting the demands of the growing population. By linking ourselves to partnering immigrant advocacy organizations such as NYIC, YKASEC and CACF, we speak in concert with our members and partners and strengthen the voices of the immigrant community and preserve our programs. As a direct service provider, we encourage our members to exercise their rights in advocacy efforts and be informed of issues that affect our community and the future of our people. This means participating in advocacy events such as Albany Day, City Advocacy Day, and A New Day for Immigrant New Yorker. In addition, we work with local agencies to discuss the prevailing issues in our communities and find ways to better serve the needs of both new and established immigrants.
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Center for Seniors
Founded since 1978, the YWCA Senior Center has been at the forefront of enhancing the quality of life for our immigrant seniors. From educational and recreational activities to arts and culture events, we encourage senior citizens to become active, healthy participants of the community. And with the increased population of senior citizens accounting and their longer life spans, we understand the need to increase services for seniors, especially those with language barriers. We strive to provide comprehensive services and keep up to date in policies and practices related to seniors and the aging population.
Evergreen School
The Evergreen School has been providing educational, recreational and wellness services and activities for the elderly immigration population. Our main purpose is to assist in their acculturation and provide ways for seniors to live a healthy balance. Celebrating 30 years of the Evergreen School, the YWCA of Queens continues to work towards creating meaningful programs for the participants.
Divided into Spring, Fall, and Winter semesters, the YWCA of Queens Evergreen School offer fun and interactive classes on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Among the special activity classes offered, dance sports prevail as the most popular class among participants who enjoy dancing to music while sweating and relieving stress. As one of the special activities, seniors gather during Lunar New Year to play Yut-Nol-Yi, a Korean traditional game for New Year's day. Of the many programs planned for the center, the YWCA of Queens is excited to open a music therapy class called "Special Trip with Music.
While programs in each semester vary, English language and conversation building remain the crux of Evergreen School. The Essay class is taught by a local bilingual volunteer with strong roots in community activism and understanding. Upon completing eight straight semesters of classes over four years, the students have a formal graduation where they receive heartfelt congratulations from family and friends.
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Evergreen Choir
Established in 1991, participants of Evergreen Choir represent missionaries and cultural ambassadors of the community. Having strong Christian roots and arts foundation, they are proud of sharing their skills and love of music to people who walk through our doors.
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Senior Mini Olympics
This year, the 10th Annual Evergreen Mini Olympics will be held in Kissena Park on May. Drawing over four hundred senior-citizens year after year, the event is full of healthy competitions and social activities. It has become an annual tradition for seniors to meet new friends, rekindle friendships and reunion with their companions.
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Trip/Evergreen School Alumni
Twice a year (once in Spring and once in Fall), Evergreen School alumni gather to take one day trips outside of New York City. From Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Canada, Evergreen School alumni enjoy the adventures and joy of encountering new places and learning new things together.
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Center for Art & Culture
The Center for Arts and Culture offers many different programs to instill pride among both new and established immigrants in the community. As issues of adjustment and isolation are common for immigrants, the YWCA of Queens uses the arts to cultivate a sense of belonging and hope. In particular, music has been a central theme and art mode for the YWCA of Queens.
Evergreen Choir and Mother's Choir
The Evergreen Choir (est. 1991) and the Mother's Choir (est. 1985) are the stars in the YWCA of Queens and the surrounding community. They have performed in many nursing homes and hospitals, and have been working as cultural ambassadors in music. Through steady performances in various venues, families, neighbors, and associations have shared many happy times together. Eager to contribute more time and efforts to social causes, the Mother's Choir provides free performances in the spirit of community giving and activism.
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Handel's "Messiah" Sing Along
Every year, on the first Sunday of December, all members get together with an orchestra to sing at Handel's "Messiah", a benefit concert. Open to any interested participants, the performance draws individuals of different ages and cultural backgrounds for the purpose of raising money for people in need while demonstrating their love for music and singing. Proceeds from last year's event went to children with impaired vision in remote areas of Korea.
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Children/Adult Music Studio
With our institutional history linked to music and piano, the YWCA of Queens offers affordable piano classes for children and adults throughout the year. Participants as young as 3 are more than welcome to learn this art at the YWCA. Evident by avid piano learners of all ages, it is never too late to learn this popular musical instrument.
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New York Music Competition
Co-presented by the Korean Daily, the New York Music Competition is celebrating its 11th year promoting talented young musicians with skilled sections in piano, violin, and cello. Having guidelines varying per section, musicians have the opportunity to discover their potential in music and make future career plans (under 15 years of age for violinists, under 17 years of age for cellists and pianists). First and second place winners perform in the highly and internationally regarded Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. For this reason, this competition is famous for its excellence and vision and is rooted in philanthropy ("Lee, Po Young Scholarship" awards first prize winners age 13-15 for Piano Part D Category).
For the past 10 years, 800 participants have come to support and see the young musicians perform during the New York Music Competition in the month of May. As a result of the training, experience and recruitment of talent, more than 270 winners have made or are making their careers in music. The result is an annual concert showcasing the talent of the winners. And this is made possible through the dedication of the Music Committee members. Proud to be a sponsor for the young talents, the YWCA of Queens Music Committee members continues to work hard to increase the level of success and talent in the competition year after years and intends to gather more support from sponsors and the community.
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