Supporting young people in New York city

Since 1915 in New York, USA, the Kips Bay organisation has been working alongside schools and community authorities with clubs which enrich and enhance quality of life for young people, with a special emphasis on youth between the ages of 6 and 18 who come from disadvantaged or disenfranchised circumstances.

This is achieved through the provision of engaging educational and developmental programmes at two sites in the city, including Kips Bay Frederick R. and Margaret Coudert Clubhouse, which is being supported by JLCT and the John Laing Group (JLG) over a three-year period.

JLG New York office staff have been volunteering with the charity, but the added financial support will boost programmes to create positive skills and educational employment opportunities including after school clubs, financial literacy and college and job applications.

Aside from academic and sporting opportunities, the Clubhouse offers purpose-built studio, internet, culinary and crafts spaces and mentoring.

Brittany Icaza is Program Director at Coudert Clubhouse, one of two standalone properties run by Kips Bay in the Bronx. She said: “Kips Bay has always understood that we are not just helping people to survive but to thrive.”