Citizens Committee

Citizens Committee For New York, which we again supported in 2011, uses a unique Resident Empowerment Model which invests in projects designed by the community for the community. Instead of a "one-size-fits-all" approach, the Resident Empowerment Model allows community stakeholders to identify the needs of local youth and tap into local resources. This helps ensure that the projects are relevant to the youth they support and leverage existing resources. For example, the Boys and Girls Council Group, a 2011 Heckscher Groundbreaker, developed a mentoring program for at-risk students at P.S. 19. Through the program, mentors spend 4-6 hours per month with mentees to provide homework help and participate in recreational activities. The project addresses the local need for positive role models, while utilizing the talent and compassion of local mentors.

Projects funded with our grant are selected based on the following criteria: Potential to level the playing field for children; Ability to engage community members -- preferably youth -- in the planning and implementation process; and Be volunteer-led, demonstrate a strong work plan with measurable results, and commit to matching the grant with volunteer hours. The Committee selects projects to receive a micro-grant and project planning assistance from Citizens' staff. Selected groups receive $500 to $3,000 to cover project costs. They offer one-on-one support during the six month project period, and monitor progress while offering advice and expertise.