April 2026
April was a memorable and eventful month at NIA! With spring finally here, our programs made the most of the warmer weather, enjoying the outdoors during spring break and coming together for NIA’s annual “NIA Cup” Field Day. Our students also had the chance to shine at the annual STEM Fair, proudly showcasing their incredible science projects. Keep reading to see all the amazing things NIA has been up to this month!
Spring Break
Our programs had many fun adventures during spring break! NIA IS 30 took trips to the American Dream Mall and Dave and Busters where they went on thrilling rides and had a blast playing arcade games. They also visited Pier 2, where they went roller skating while taking in the beautiful views of the Brooklyn Bridge. NIA PS 186 had a cute and cuddly Build a Bear activity where they each got to make and take home their own bear! They also had morning karaoke over break where the students got to show off their singing skills. NIA PS 253 made the most of Spring Break with a variety of engaging activities, including a museum trip and a hands-on gardening project where students planted their own seeds and learned how to care for plants. Across NIA’s programs, Spring Break was filled with laughter, learning, and exciting field trips.
NIA Field Day at PS 186
The fun and games were in full swing at the NIA Cup! Students had a blast rotating through a variety of sports and game stations. The stations included everything from egg races and basketball to giant Jenga and cup stacking. Excitement filled the air as students ran, laughed, and enjoyed some friendly competition. At lunchtime, everyone refueled with delicious pizza before jumping right back into the action. Field Day was a wonderful way to get students active, engaged, and smiling while soaking up the sunny weather. A big thank you to PS 186 for hosting such a fantastic event. It was truly one for the books!
NIA STEM Fair at PS 889
NIA’s annual STEM Fair was out of this world! Students proudly showcased their incredible science projects, highlighting their creativity, curiosity, and dedication. From drones and gaming technology to butterfly life cycles and bioplastics, the range of ideas was both impressive and inspiring. One of the highlights of the event was the interactive activities, where students got hands-on experience exploring experiments and displays. It was a great way to spark a love for science and give students the opportunity to shine as they shared their hard work. A special thank you to MS 890 for hosting this amazing event, and to NIA’s Director of Education, Corrinne Colosimo, for organizing such a memorable day and coordinating with all of the programs to make it a success! We’d also like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the Pinkerton Foundation for making this day possible. Many of the participating sites were supported this year through a special STEM grant from the Foundation, and we were delighted to have Jennifer Negron, Senior Program Officer at Pinkerton, join us for the event. We are truly grateful for the Pinkerton Foundation’s continued support.We would like to additionally thank Natzinet Ghebrenegus from DYCD for being in attendance and sharing in this special day.
NIA Take Your Child to Work Day
This year’s Take Your Child to Work Day was a heartwarming and memorable experience for everyone involved. The day kicked off with a tasty breakfast, followed by an engaging office tour and warm staff introductions. After the tour, the main events began! The kids loved exploring different “work” stations, including helping prepare books for donation by placing NIA stickers on them. Other favorites were NIA tote bag decorating and t-shirt coloring, and fun photo and “interview” activities. A highlight of the day was each child receiving their very own NIA “intern” badge to wear and take home. It was a truly special bonding experience, and the kids loved getting a glimpse into what their parents do each day at work!
Earth Day
NIA Programs celebrated Earth Day with a variety of creative, eco-friendly crafts and activities. Students embraced sustainability while having fun and learning the importance of protecting our planet. At NIA PS 705, students designed a beautiful NIA poster using recycled materials, showcasing both their creativity and commitment to the environment. After their crafting, everyone enjoyed delicious Earth-shaped cookies! At NIA IS 30, students collaborated to produce an impressiveEarth Day video specialas part of WCNS’s newscast. Their effort and creativity truly shined through as they highlighted global warming and shared innovative, engaging ideas on how we can better care for our planet. Our students did an excellent job raising environmental awareness, showcasing their creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact!
Program Highlights
Director Cooking Event at Cornerstone
Child Abuse Prevention Month
NIA PS 186 Clay Making Activity
NIA tabling at District 20 Bilingual Education Resource Fair
Michael A. Bové, President; Mary Anne Cino, CEO
Annette Velez, Executive Director; Phyllis Smeragliuolo, Asst. Executive Director
NIA SOCIAL SERVICES ASSISTANCE
NIA provides FREE services.
Most social services can be handled via phone or by virtual appointment.
Please contact NIA Director of Social Services Senja Frangipani at services@niabklyn.org or call 718-236-5266
HIGHLIGHTS
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Application assistance with applying for affordable rentals
and housing opportunities throughout the five boroughs.
(NIA does not work to secure an apartment for any applicants)
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Naloxone training is a service that teaches people how to respond to an opioid overdose.
Every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6:30PM
Registration required, Limited seating, Must be 18 yrs.
2nd floor conference room (No Elevator Access)
Child Support Services
Heap
Medicare Savings Plan
SCHE
SCRIE
Referral Assistance
Access-A-Ride
IDNYC
NYCHA Housing Authority
Passport Appointments
WIC
Counseling Services
Fair Fares
SNAP
HPD
DIRE
CITYHEPS Renewal
Health Insurance
Health Proxy Assistance
FAMILY SERVICES
For more information, please contact our Manager of Family Services, Isabel Paz:
isabel@niabklyn.org or call (929) 545-4172
Parenting Journey
This course is designed to help parents and caregivers understand how past experiences and present realities shape their attitudes and beliefs as parents and influence how they engage with their children. Through a process of self-reflection and guided conversation, Parenting Journey participants learn more about themselves not just as parents but also as individuals, resulting in a more confident parenting style. Upon successful graduation participants will receive a certificate of completion.
Private Family Support Session
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Behavioral changes in children, family conflicts, new stressors within the family, clothing, food, transportation, personal items
All sessions are voluntary and based on each family’s needs, and include the option for referral for things outside of our scope such as domestic violence, mental health, and more.
