June 2025

As another vibrant school year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the joyful celebrations, powerful partnerships, and impactful programs that brought our community together. From unforgettable proms and staff appreciation events to carnivals, contests, and championship wins, we’re proud to share a few of the highlights that made this last month of school so memorable. Keep reading to learn more about what we got up to and everything NIA has coming up for the summer!

NIA Senior Proms

NIA proudly hosted two unforgettable senior proms this year in partnership with Councilman Justin Brannan and NYS Senator Andrew Gounardes. Our elected officials, as well as NIA Founder and President Michael A. Bové were in attendance and took the time to speak to our seniors and join in on the fun! Seniors from the Coney Island and South Brooklyn communities danced the night away, bringing energy and joy to these cherished celebrations. The proms are our way of honoring the seniors who are the heart of our Brooklyn neighborhoods. A special thanks to the McKinley Middle School chaperones for guiding guests to their seats and helping to kick off the festivities.

NIA Staff Appreciation Dinner

To recognize the hard work and dedication of our team, NIA held an end-of-year appreciation dinner at the Dyker Beach Golf Course. Over 500 guests—including staff, school partners, and funders—joined us for an evening of connection, gratitude, and celebration. Founder and President Michael A. Bové, CEO Mary Anny Cino, Executive Director Annetter Velez, and Director of Operations Vera Ekht shared heartfelt reflections on the year’s accomplishments. The evening featured photo booths, music, dancing, and a delicious meal—a joyful way to welcome summer and express our thanks to everyone who makes NIA’s mission possible.

End of School Year Events

As the school year wraps up, we’re proud to look back on the exciting events and activities that marked the end of our programs across the city. Our teams brought creativity and care to each celebration—ensuring that students, families, and community members left with memories to last all summer long. Highlights include: carnivals hosted by NIA/PS 247, The Cornerstone, PS 185 and an ‘Around the World’ event with food, art, and dance from different cultures at PS 176 and PS 52R hosted a ‘Dancing Through the Decades’ dance performance— showcasing performances inspired by different decades.

Luna Park Day

On June 5th, NIA brought the joy of summer to life with our annual Luna Park Day, one of our most anticipated traditions. This year, over 1,200 students from 40 NIA programs across Brooklyn and Queens were treated to an unforgettable day at the iconic Luna Park in Coney Island. With exclusive access to the park, students were free to explore and enjoy the rides, games, and attractions with their friends and staff—without the usual crowds. Smiles and laughter filled the air as students challenged each other to carnival games, shared cotton candy and pretzels, and snapped photos to capture the memories. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of the school year, kick off the summer, and reward students for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. A huge thank you to the Luna Park staff and our NIA team, especially our Director of Operations Vera Ekht, for making this magical day possible!

68th Precinct Art Contest

NIA Director of Social Services Senja Frangipani joined NYPD 68th Precinct Commanding Officer Captain John Dasaro to honor the winners of the Keeping Our Schools and Communities Safe Art Contest. Students were recognized for their inspiring creativity and messages of unity and safety. Participants from NIA/PS 30, NIA/PS/IS 104, PS 176, and NIA/PS 185 all submitted meaningful artwork. Congratulations to Landon M., Oliver C., Davis L., Rekha H., and Alexandria T. on winning the contest and their outstanding work!

2025 Basketball League Champions

PS 179’s journey to the championship is nothing short of a Cinderella story. While they've competed in NIA tournaments in the past, they’ve often fallen just short of reaching the award stage. But as first-time participants in this year's league, they came out strong — breaking through every barrier and expectation.

Despite a tough path to the trophy, PS 179 went undefeated throughout the season, making it all look effortless. Their hard work, team chemistry, and relentless drive quickly made them the team to beat — and the talk of the league. Yet, they stayed focused on their goal and ultimately walked away with the championship. Their inspiring performance has raised the bar and sparked excitement for next season, with both returning and new teams ready to rise to the challenge. Congratulations to the PS 179 team!

Family Services Highlight

As part of our Family Services programming, we hosted a Self-Care Essential Oil Workshop for mothers at PS/IS 30. Participants created custom rollerball blends for stress relief and energy, while enjoying a tea party featuring a variety of flavored teas and sweet treats. It was a soothing, empowering event that gave caregivers a well-deserved moment of rest and connection.

Program Highlights

NIA/PS 627 Father Figure Appreciation Day with Bear Magic

NIA/PS 114 Talent Show

NIA/PS 134 Summer Jam

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At the heart of our after-school programs is a deep commitment to the children, families, and schools in our community. Through strong partnerships—and with the support of New York City’s Comprehensive After-School System (COMPASS)—we’re proud to offer safe, engaging spaces where young people can learn, grow, and discover their passions. Whether it's through hands-on learning, creative arts, or team-building activities, our programs help build confidence and spark curiosity. We work closely with each school to ensure our offerings support their goals and provide enriching experiences that students might not otherwise have access to. Together, we’re helping kids thrive—both in and out of the classroom.

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NIA SOCIAL SERVICES ASSISTANCE

NIA provides FREE services.

Most social services can be handled via phone or by virtual appointment.

HIGHLIGHTS

• NYC Housing Lottery Application Assistance

  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)

• Narcan/Naloxone Training

  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

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FAMILY SERVICES

For more information, please contact our Manager of Family Services, Isabel Paz:

isabel@niabklyn.org or call (929) 545-4172

Parent Advisory Committee

• We are looking for a community of parents and caregivers who would like to develop their leadership skills, plan activities, and support the NIA community. The Parent Advisory Committee’s (PAC) purpose is to provide input to NIA on designing programs and services that meet the needs of families in the NIA community.

  Parent Advisory Duties:

  • Suggest ideas and agenda items for NIA's Family Services parent education, family events, and other community projects.

  • Work collaboratively with other committee members.

  • Participate in a minimum of two out of four meetings (Meeting quarterly, every 3 months).

  • Help promote NIA's activities and events in the community.

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

• Family-support professional provides short-term support to families through one-on-one sessions and referrals. We provide support with:

  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.

New Moms Group

• A virtual community to support your parenting journey.

  Our new mom group discusses topics such as:

  • Baby development

  • what to anticipate as a new mom

  • journey from month to month for your baby’s first year

  • tips and tricks on navigating motherhood

  • and much more!

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