Arjun’s Story

When Arjun joined SCO’s Individual Residential Alternatives program in 2014, his developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges greatly impacted his ability to function. They were so severe that he could not be in crowds, public spaces, and was unable to socialize. There were times when Arjun would refuse to eat meals with his housemates.

With the help and dedication of SCO’s staff, a plan was developed to help Arjun address these challenges and work towards achieving his goals. Last summer, Arjun attended the YMCA Camp Huguenot with his peers where he had a blast doing a variety of activities such as archery, rock climbing and canoeing. The fun did not stop there! After the camping trip, Arjun took a major step forward and drove to Battery Park with his sister and aunt. He entered the car with no hesitation and walked the High Line, went for pizza and drove around Manhattan with his family where he showed almost zero signs of anxiety.

Today, Arjun attends SCO’s community habilitation, partakes in various activities such as volunteering at canned food drives, delivering food to elderly adults, going to the bowling alley, and going to the local church’s gym to play basketball and soccer. Arjun spends quality time with his peers and he is now able to enjoy going out and be among his friends and family. He is also taking road-trips with his parents to Virginia and going on camping trips with his housemates without having anxiety.

Arjun’s breakthrough is the definition of a success story! He continues to thrive, and we are sure that Arjun will continue to work towards more independence and integration into his community.

 

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SCO at East New York Middle School of Excellence

Community School • After School • Summer Camp

SCO’s After School Program at East New York Middle School of Excellence offers homework assistance and weekly instruction in visual arts, theater and storytelling, STEM, dance and fitness, group games and recreation, restorative circles and youth leadership for students in grades 6-8. The program allows students to engage in activities that enrich their education, foster their academic achievement, and prepare them for future success. The After School Program is an essential resource for working families, providing a safe and enriching environment during out-of-school hours.

SCO’s Summer Camp at East New York Middle School of Excellence provides a safe and engaging summer experience, where children can develop academic, creative and artistic abilities through art, music, film, dance and sports. Our camps equip young people with leadership development, character building, recreation, and academic enrichment, including STEM and literacy programs. On-site activities are combined with cultural, educational and recreational trips throughout New York City. The program is open to students in grades 6-8.

East New York Middle School of Excellence is a designated Community School that has partnered with SCO Family of Services to create a center for enriching, supportive, and inclusive activities that bring together children, teens, and adults from the community.  As a Community School, ENYMSE is a neighborhood hub where students receive high-quality academic instruction, families can access social services, and the community comes together to share resources and address their common challenges. This holistic approach supports the social, emotional, physical and academic needs of students and creates a school environment where students, parents, faculty, and community groups work as partners to achieve stronger educational outcomes.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Students of ENYMSE

Age Criteria or Other Eligibility Requirements

6th-8th graders

How to Access this Program or Service

Contact the program director at 718-688-6375 x3004 or 347-525-5647

 

Success Stories

Arjun’s Story

Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Personal Growth

With the help and dedication of SCO’s staff, a plan was developed to help Arjun address his challenges and work towards achieving his goals. Learn More

Kaitlyn & Khamion

Early Education & Family Support Services

“I love this school. Sometimes I felt like giving up, but Kaitlyn was always my motivation.” Learn More

85%

of residents in our group homes for adults with developmental disabilities attended Day Habilitation and receive vocational services

100%

of eligible residents at our Dix Hills Residential Treatment Facility participated in work, internship, or volunteer activities

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