Building Leaders at Family Dynamics After School Program

March 23, 2017 – Brooklyn, NY   Students from our Family Dynamics East New York Middle School of Excellence (ENYMSE) After School Program have been participating in a leadership series, “Love Thy Self,” designed to build confidence and foster self-expression while developing connections with peers and staff.  The theme for this year’s “Love Thy Self” Leadership Series was “The Path to Success.”

Throughout the year, activities have focused on what it takes to be successful as individuals, as a school and within the community as well as the planning that is required to get there.  The program culminated in a weekend leadership retreat at the Fresh Air Fund’s Camp Mariah in the Hudson Highlands.

Activities at the retreat, which included a Low Ropes Building Course, a Setting Goals Workshop and Community Dance, emphasized planning, team building and self-expression. Students loved the experience of spending time away from the hustle and bustle of Brooklyn and the trip included firsts for many – like hiking, roasting marshmallows and sleeping in a cabin. Staff at ENYMSE plan to make the trip an annual event.