Boys & Girls Club of Harlem faces possible closure of its after-school program

NEW YORK — Earlier this year, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she would cut pandemic-era funding for after-school programs across the state in favor of a new plan, a decision that could have a significant impact on the children who rely on the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem.

The club provides continuing education to 2,200 children in kindergarten through 12th grade, including college preparatory and paid internships, as well as the all-important afterschool program at five nearby public schools and the clubhouse on West 145th Street.

“I grew up five blocks from this clubhouse,” said CEO Sharon Joseph. “I’m first generation, so I’m really one of my kids. And what I realize is that kids have to be more intentional in order for them to be successful.”

Joseph said she was shocked to learn that not only did the state stop funding the Advantage After School Program after the first five years, but that the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem did not receive a grant from the new funding pot Hochul set up to replace it.

“We are committed to keeping it open,” Joseph said, “but the reality is we have to consider closing programs.”

She emphasized the impact of these services, with young members like Quamique Marcial, who now works for the club as a youth mentor, demonstrating how they are finding a future path to success through internships on Wall Street.

“Roberts & Ryan and Mark Muller Equities have allowed me to learn new things,” said Marcial. “They have given me valuable information about stocks and how to buy and sell stocks.”

Marcial hopes to bring his interest in practical mathematics back to his community by becoming a teacher and being a role model for other children like him.

“I want to make sure they can be great leaders because they are the next big star,” he said.

Joseph fears that without these vital services, her students could end up on the streets.

“The dollar we spend today will give us $3 in ROI,” Joseph said. “But if we wait until later, it will cost us $8 for all the social programs we have to provide to these children.”

Joseph’s team is still working with lawmakers on solutions and is launching a campaign to encourage 700 donors to donate $1,000 to close the gap.

The Boys & Girls Club of Harlem has the summer to raise the funds before the next school year begins. Click here to learn more.

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