The Greater Ridgewood Youth Council, Inc.
Serving Youth and Families Since 1980
All of our programs are instructed by qualified individuals and our instructors are motivated to create opportunities for all children to grow and excel, all while having fun at the same time.
Little Stars
We offer instruction according to developmentally appropriate practices, focusing on promoting the cognitive, physical, and, social emotional development of the children we serve. Our curriculum is based on the principle that children learn best when they are engaged in hands on project based activities. We are the first step on the pathway to college and career readiness. All of our children are well prepared when they enter Kindergarten.
Grades K-5 Free After School Programs
The COMPASS elementary model caters to the “whole child” in kindergarten through 5th grade. Beyond STEM learning, it strives to integrate literacy into all instruction and offers homework help, basic arts instruction, and physical activity, including nutritional programming to promote healthy living. Our programs, located throughout Queens, are offered up to three hours each day, five days per week.
Grades 6-8 After School Program
COMPASS NYC’s middle school model, renamed SONYC (School’s Out New York City), serves as a pathway to success for youth in 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Structured like clubs, the model offers young people a choice in how they spend their time; provides rigorous instruction in sports and arts; and requires youth leadership through service. We have more than a dozen programs throughout Queens that are offered up to three hours each day, five days per week.
Beacon Program
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The Beacon Programs at I.S. 93 and I.S. 204 are school-based community centers serving children 6 years of age and older, including High School students and Adults. Funded by the NYC/DYCD they are offered free of charge to all participants. The program operates in the afternoons, evenings, and weekends, as well as, during school holidays, and vacation periods—including summer. Our mission is to provide opportunities to enhance and acquire new skills, promote social interaction and physical activity, and give back to the community.
Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)
The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) provides young people between the ages of 14 and 21 with paid summer employment and service learning opportunities for six weeks in July and August. During the application phase, youth can apply for the program online or submit their application to the GRYC. To be eligible for participation, youth must be selected by DYCD’s lottery, provide copies of all required documents at enrollment and attend mandatory SYEP orientation sessions.
Grades K-5 Fee Based Programs
GRYC elementary model caters to the “whole child” in kindergarten through 5th grade. Beyond STEM learning, it strives to integrate literacy into all instruction and offers homework help, basic arts instruction, and physical activity, including nutritional programming to promote healthy living. Our programs, located throughout Queens, are offered up to three hours each day, five days per week.
