Ryan’s Story

At 7 years old, Ryan was removed from his mother’s home and placed in SCO’s Foster Care program. Options for exploring his interests and creativity were limited. But that all changed for Ryan when his mentor at SCO encouraged and empowered him to pursue his dreams.

This mentorship broadened Ryan’s world and opened doors to opportunities. He discovered his abilities and strengths, nurtured a love for science, and developed his networking skills. Today, Ryan is proud to pay his experience forward by mentoring, encouraging, and guiding younger children at SCO.

Ryan is now a sophomore majoring in Biology at Jamestown Community College. SCO assisted him with transportation, college applications, and opportunities for financial aid to help him fulfill his potential and continue his education.

“Thank you for investing in my future,” said Ryan. “There is so much I would not have been able to do without the care and support that I received from SCO Family of Services.”

Michael’s Story

When Michael was incarcerated, he felt the weight of the world on his shoulders. Trying to rebuild his life afterward felt nearly impossible—the uncertainty, the fear of what the future holds, and the pressure to somehow figure it all out. He felt like society had already given up on him, and the road ahead seemed dark.

But then Michael discovered SCO’s Young Adult Workforce Program (YAWP). The Young Adult Workforce Program helps young adults on Rikers Island prepare for the future by providing training and support, both before and after release, to help create a smooth transition back to the community.

Michael took full advantage of the opportunity. Through YAWP, Michael gained valuable skills and opportunities that have helped him meet life’s challenges head-on. Through hard work and dedication, Michael earned his OSHA 30 certification, a barista license, and even a barbering license. He obtained his driver’s license and his state ID.

To some people, they might seem like small things, but to Michael, they were life-changing. Those documents weren’t just pieces of paper—they were a lifeline. They represented hope, a future, and the possibility of standing on his own two feet upon his release. The staff of the Young Adult Workforce Program didn’t see Michael’s past, they saw his potential. And they helped him see it, too.

When Michael came home, he was ready…with a renewed sense of purpose.

Just five days after his release, Michael was hired by the REFORM Alliance, a highly respected criminal justice reform organization, to be their Gen Z Organizer. He loves the work and the opportunity it gives him to help others, just like he was. He’s a big believer in paying it forward.

“SCO gave me back something I thought I had lost—my sense of self. They gave me the belief that I could make it, that I had worth, and that my future wasn’t defined by my past. They allowed me to see that there is a community out there that cares, that’s ready to help lift you up when you need it most.”

Michael has demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination in overcoming challenges and is on a path to a successful future. He is a shining example of the transformative impact that support, guidance, and opportunity can have on a young person’s life.

Long Island City Early Childhood Programs – Register Today!

SCO helps get children off to a healthy start with center- and home-based programs for young families. Our Early Childhood Education Center, located at 38-11 27th Street in Long Island City, has immediate openings! We offer high quality, full day instruction onsite. Our programs support English and dual-language learners, and children with IEPs. Our warm and welcoming programs encourage families to become active partners in their child’s academic growth and language development.

Program Highlights

  • Year-round, full day 3K, Pre-K, and extended day options
  • Free or low-cost child care for eligible families
  • Enhanced safety measures including daily health screenings and temperature checks
  • Literacy and math activities prepare children for success in kindergarten
  • Outdoor play space, plus art, music, and drama
  • Healthy breakfast, lunch, and snacks
  • NYS Certified Teachers

Want to learn more? Complete the form below

 

Programs in Queens

Long Island City Early Childhood Center: 38-11 27th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101

Year-round, full-day Pre-K that focuses on healthy development and prepares children for success in school. Learn more»

 

 

Corona UPK: 33-27 97th Street, Corona, NY 11368

Year-round, full-day Pre-K that focuses on healthy development and prepares children for success in school. Learn more»

 

 

Jerome Hardeman Early Childhood Center: 29-49 Gillmore Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11369

The Jerome Hardeman Early Childhood Center offers a year-round, full-day academic program in a safe and engaging environment for children ages 2.9 months to 5 years of age, including UPK. Learn more»

 

 

Family Child Care Networks

In-home child care providers in East Elmhurst, Corona, Jackson Heights, Flushing, Rego Park, and Forest Hills offer families with infants, toddlers and preschoolers a full day, year-round program that fosters healthy development and learning. Learn more»

 

 

Ryan’s Story

Empowerment through mentorship

Read Ryan’s Story

Michael’s Story

Finding his sense of purpose

Read Michael’s Story

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