The Marilyn Lichtman Foundation’s Story
Belief in the potential of every child
Read The Marilyn Lichtman Foundation’s Story
SCO Family of Services is deeply honored to shine a spotlight on the Marilyn Lichtman Foundation for their extraordinary generosity and support of our Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center (RJMCC) Capital Campaign.
Thanks to their recent gift, we are taking transformative steps to reimagine the Tyree Vocational Classroom/Life Skills space inside the Tyree Learning Center: a New York State-certified special education school dedicated to children with developmental and behavioral challenges. Their support is making critical renovations possible, including modernizing the classroom, adding adaptive equipment and new appliances, and creating a nurturing, therapeutic learning space designed to meet the unique needs of every student.
The Marilyn Lichtman Foundation’s belief in the potential of every child and their dedication to education, healing, and hope is helping us create an environment where young people can truly thrive. Their compassion is not only improving lives today, but also opening doors to brighter tomorrows.
From all of us at SCO, thank you to the Marilyn Lichtman Foundation for being a beacon of hope and a true partner in building a more inclusive, empowered future for the children and families we serve.
Meet Alhassane, originally from Guinea, who began his quest for asylum in the United States in October 2023. His journey was driven by a need to escape the violence, political instability, and poverty in his homeland.
Upon his arrival to America, Alhassane faced homelessness in New York City for a month, seeking help from a mosque, another Runaway Homeless Youth provider, and finally SCO Family of Services. Alhassane found refuge at Independence Inn I, where he received support in maintaining employment, enrolling in school, applying for supportive housing, and securing immigration services to pursue American citizenship.
Currently, Alhassane works as a delivery driver for DoorDash and sends money back to his family in Guinea whenever possible to alleviate their financial struggles. He is enrolled in Pathways to Graduation, aiming to obtain his GED diploma. In his spare time, Alhassane enjoys swimming and going to the gym.
A significant milestone occurred on October 3, 2025, when Alhassane moved into his own supportive housing apartment in Brooklyn. This achievement marks a tremendous step forward in his journey. As Alhassane received the keys to his new apartment, he expressed his deep gratitude for the support he received from SCO. The Independence Inn I and Brooklyn Youth Center teams played a crucial role in assisting him with the move, ensuring a smooth transition to independence.

86%
of young adults in foster care are employed, participating in workforce training, or enrolled in school
With your gift, you can help strengthen New York families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs.
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