After-School Programs Shape Leaders at Henry Street
By Allison Rowe
Youth Services at Henry Street united with the Afterschool Alliance and millions around the nation to rally for after-school youth programs during the 14th annual Lights On Afterschool event on Thursday, October 17.
More than 100 students who attend Henry Street after-school programs at PS 20, PS 110, PS 134 and Boys & Girls Republic (BGR) gathered at 301 Henry Street to express the positive effect that after-school programming has had on their lives. Youth speakers said Henry Street after-school activities keep them out of trouble and give them opportunities to practice new skills like leadership and getting along with others.
Executive Director David Garza congratulated several speakers, including those who had started off in Henry Street after-school programs and are now working as leaders in the program while attending college. Garza said their stories of entering Henry Street as clients and working up to leadership roles are what the organization is all about.
A representative from New York State Afterschool Network (NYSAN), Angelina Cacioppo, also spoke to the students about the value of their programs.
