Our main purpose for building a recreational center is to provide a safe place for children of all ages + teach the youth the history of branch brook park
-mental health services
-tutors
-Physical areas: an indoor pool, gym, basketball court,
-Places where youth can play and make music: have studio and instruments
-Weekly community check ins: sometimes all a person needs is someone to talk to.
- Fun Activities : Scavenger hunts, Tours around the park
Although the center will be focused on the youth we can’t forget about the adults, because they need love too.
-parent support groups
-yoga/meditation
Food drives will be held regularly
-community garden: we will teach anybody who wants to learn how to garden
-park cleanup
-driving lessons for 16 and up
-college prep
Programs we wish to work with in the community center and around the park
1. Park Literacy Leaders
"In partnership with our local Newark Public Library Branch Brook location we aim to advance youth development in the landscape. Join a team of adult readers who are making a significant impact in children's lives by reading out loud to youth in the community. Reading out loud builds listening skills, increases a child's attention span, and develops the ability to concentrate at length of which all are learned skills."
2. Park Ambassador Youth Workforce Development
"Every summer we partner with the City of Newark Youth One Stop Career Center to provide youth workforce development to 20 of Newark's youth. For the majority of the participants, this is their first experience having a job. Park Ambassadors spend four days a week in the landscape learning about horticulture and stewardship, and developing critical workforce skills. At the end of the program, the participants have a greater sense of responsibility, a sense of accomplishment and acquired skills to be successful in the next phase of their life. "
