July Newsletter
July has been a sunny and exciting month here at NIA! Our community has been enjoying a variety of summer activities, from Summer Rising programs filled with fun field trips and new experiences to NIA’s Annual Summer Concerts, where families, friends, and neighbors have come together every Tuesday to sing, dance, and celebrate the season. There has been so much happening across NIA. Read on to discover what NIA has been up to this summer!
Summer Concerts
Summer is here, and so is NIA’s beloved Summer Concert Series! Families, friends, and neighbors have been gathering each week to enjoy live music, great company, and memorable summer evenings. Hosted in partnership with Senator Andrew Gounardes and Council Member Kayla Santosuosso, each concert begins with an opening performance by the talented house band from School of Rock Bay Ridge at 6:00 PM, followed by the featured act at 7:00 PM.
This season kicked off with an energetic performance by crowd favorite Head Over Heels, followed by Mainsail, who had audiences singing and dancing along to their favorite Yacht Rock classics.
Join us every Tuesday (weather permitting) throughout the summer for more outstanding performances. We look forward to many more evenings of music, connection, and community as we celebrate the season together!
Summer Rising
Each summer, NIA proudly partners with the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and the New York City Department of Education (DOE) to provide Summer Rising, New York City's free summer enrichment program for elementary and middle school students. Combining academic support with engaging recreational experiences, Summer Rising gives young people a safe and supportive environment where they can continue learning, explore new interests, and make lasting memories through themed activities, clubs, STEM projects, arts and crafts, and exciting field trips.
Students at NIA/PS 247 enjoyed enriching trips to the Turtle Back Zoo, where they explored exhibits and met their favorite animals, the Gazillion Bubble Show, and Strike Bowling, where they put their skills to the test. At NIA/JHS 227, students explored science and healthy living during a visit to Liberty Science Center, participated in the Great Big Game Show, tackled interactive challenges, enjoyed treats from Glazed & Confused, and took part in Bear Magic and World Cup-themed STEM activities. They also expressed their creativity through turtle painting and enjoyed a special visit from the Stuff'd food truck. Across other NIA Summer Rising sites, students visited a petting zoo and art studio at NIA/PS 229, laced up their skates for a trip to the Pier 2 Roller Rink at IS 30, and explored the sensory experiences at the Sloomoo Institute before having fun at Max Funland with students from NIA/PS 95.
With weeks of summer still ahead, NIA's Summer Rising students continue to learn, grow, and make unforgettable memories through experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection.
NIA Brooklyn Cyclones Game Fundraiser
NIA staff, families, friends, and participants came together on June 9th for NIA Day at the Brooklyn Cyclones game at Maimonides Park in Coney Island, enjoying a night of baseball, community, and summer fun. One of the evening's biggest highlights was seeing Director of Operations Vera Ehkt, Associate Director of Youth Programs Bianca Naco, and several NIA participants take the field alongside the Cyclones' beloved mascots, King Henry, Sandy, and Pee Wee the Seagulls, for an unforgettable sing-along that had the crowd cheering. Adding to the excitement, Multi-Site Supervisor Luis Martinez had the honor of throwing a ceremonial pitch, representing NIA on the field in front of fellow staff, participants, and fans. It was a proud moment that showcased the spirit of our organization and made the evening even more memorable. From cheering in the stands to celebrating on the field, the night was filled with laughter, team spirit, and community pride. Thank you to the Brooklyn Cyclones and to everyone who joined us and helped make this special event a success!
NIA at Fort Hamilton Senior Center, 59th Anniversary Open House
NIA's Director of Social Services, Senja Frangipani, attended the Fort Hamilton Senior Center's Open House in celebration of the center's 59th Anniversary of serving older adults in the community. The event welcomed community members to explore the wide variety of programs, activities, and resources available at the center while highlighting its longstanding commitment to promoting wellness, social connection, and lifelong learning. Guests had the opportunity to tour the facility, meet staff and fellow participants, and learn more about the engaging recreational, educational, and wellness programs offered throughout the year. NIA was proud to join in the celebration and strengthen its connection with community members and local partners. Events like these provide valuable opportunities to build relationships, share resources, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting older adults throughout Brooklyn. We congratulate the Fort Hamilton Senior Center on this remarkable milestone!
Interborough Pop-Up
On July 15th, the Interborough Developmental and Consultation Center hosted its Community Wellness pop-up event on Mermaid Avenue in Coney Island, bringing together local organizations and community members to promote health, wellness, and access to valuable resources. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about available services, connect with community partners, and discover tools to support their wellbeing. NIA was proud to participate, with NIA Community Liaison Thomas Hoefel, NIA Director of Wellness and Family Resources Jennifer Howard, NIA Director of Capacity Building Michele Basile, and NIA Director of Development and Communications Virginia Chieco representing the organization. The team connected with attendees, shared information about NIA's programs and services, and strengthened relationships with community partners throughout the day.
New Promotions
At NIA, we are proud to invest in our people and celebrate the growth of our team. Promoting from within reflects the dedication, talent, and commitment of our staff while strengthening our organization. Congratulations to the following team members on their well-deserved promotions!
Jennifer Howard, Director of Wellness and Family Resources
Jennifer has been part of the NIA family for 12 years, most recently serving as a Senior Program Supervisor overseeing school-based after-school programs across Brooklyn and Queens. During her time in that role, she is especially proud of building strong partnerships and developing strong Program Directors. Jennifer holds a Master of Public Administration, along with certifications in Human Services Board Certified Practitioner (HSBCP) and Mental Health First Aid. Her passion for social work and deep roots in community engagement made stepping into this new role a natural next chapter. As Director of Wellness and Family Resources, Jennifer is especially excited to launch NIA's newest department — expanding access to free family resources and family services.
Darryl Robinson,Associate Director of Youth Programs
Darryl Robinson has been a dedicated member of the NIA Community Services Network team for over 13 years, progressing from Deputy Director to Director, Multi-Site Program Supervisor, and now Associate Director of Youth Programs. In his new role, he will support Multi-Site Program Supervisors, strengthen program quality, and foster staff development while continuing to build strong partnerships with schools, families, and communities to ensure positive outcomes for the youth NIA serves.
Bianca Naco, Associate Director of Youth Programs
Bianca has been with NIA for the past 12 years, building extensive experience in youth development and programming. She spent her first 10 years as a Program Director before advancing to Program Supervisor and later Assistant Director of Program Operations. Throughout her career, Bianca has developed a strong background in programming, staff leadership and supporting families. As a mother of two, she is passionate about creating safe, engaging environments where young people can learn and thrive. Her favorite part of her job is seeing her former participants become NIA staff members!
Kevin Richtback, Senior Program Supervisor
Since joining the NIA family as a participant in 2001, Kevin has spent the past 25 years growing alongside the organization. Throughout that time, Kevin has held every position within the program, gaining valuable experience before being promoted to Senior Program Supervisor. This journey has fostered a deep appreciation for NIA's mission and the lasting impact it has on youth, families, and the community. Grateful for the opportunities to grow within the organization, Kevin is proud to continue supporting staff, participants, and programs while serving in this new leadership role.
Thomas Zaki, Senior Program Supervisor
Tommy joined the NIA family as an Outreach Coordinator in 2017 and quickly moved up to Beacon Program Director where he and his team created a successful community center at PS 247. In 2022, Tommy was promoted to the role of Multi-Site Program Supervisor and is proud of his work in building strong bonds with his portfolio of Program Directors and supporting them to grow their programs. As Tommy steps into his new role of Senior Program Supervisor, he is most proud that two of his former Directors are now Program Supervisors and is excited to continue to mentor his peers to create successful youth development opportunities.
Jay Harris, Multi-Site Program Supervisor
Jay Harris is passionate about creating meaningful experiential learning opportunities that connect young people with their communities and the world around them. Since joining NIA Community Services Network as a subcontracted instructor, he has advanced through roles as Assistant Director, Program Director, and now Multi-Site Supervisor. Throughout his career, Jay has remained committed to developing innovative programs that inspire curiosity, leadership, and personal growth. As he steps into his new role as Multi-Site Supervisor, he looks forward to collaborating with teams across multiple sites to expand experiential learning opportunities, strengthen community partnerships, and continue elevating youth programming through creativity, purpose, and meaningful engagement.
Kaitlyn D'Ambrosio, Multi-Site Supervisor
Kaitlyn has been part of NIA Community Network Services for the past five years, beginning as the Program Director at PS 104. From the start, she demonstrated strong leadership, organization, and a commitment to supporting students, families, and staff. During her time with NIA, she discovered a passion for youth development and the impact of high-quality afterschool programs. Currently completing her School-Age Care (SAC) Credential, Kaitlyn continues to grow professionally while strengthening her expertise. Now serving as a Multi-Site Supervisor, she is excited to support multiple programs and lead by example, inspiring staff and students to achieve their full potential.
Erik Paz, Multi-Site Program Supervisor
Erik has risen through the ranks of NIA. Starting as a participant, to line staff, to program director and now Multi-Site Program Supervisor. Erik is very excited to use his experience to inspire others and make afterschool with NIA a fun, safe, and enriching experience for all students!
Join us for NIA’s Summer Concert Series!
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 Sessions
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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.
Apply now! NIA is seeking candidates to join our talented youth enrichment team.
Positions available for summer and the 2026-27 school year
Training and opportunities for growth
Seeking support staff and those with experience in subjects such as visual and performing arts, STEM, sports and fitness, literacy, cooking, leadership, and so much more! - All experience levels welcome