Friends of the Children - New York | Celebrating Community & Wellness

Relive our 2025 Step Up Gala!

NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP
Copy of Reading in the park banner

May 19, 2025

Celebrating Community & Wellness

This past weekend, our Harlem Clubhouse came alive as we hosted a Community Event Health & Wellness for families and neighbors. With the sound of music flowing from the clubhouse and children laughing and playing outside, the day was a beautiful reminder of the power of community to inspire, heal, and connect.

Untitled design 38

The event was designed to provide support to families, focusing specifically on wellness. Guests were invited to experience dance and martial arts demonstrations, offering a sneak preview of the after-school programming available to our Achievers. Attendees also received free legal advice, haircuts and braiding, health resource referrals, and information to support physical and mental well-being.

Art

Creative expression was also a key part of the day. Inside the clubhouse, large sheets of paper lined the walls, where attendees of all ages contributed their own drawings, reflecting on what peace means to them. Outside, sidewalk chalk transformed the pavement into a colorful display of imagination. Free food was served to all, ensuring no one left hungry and everyone felt welcome.

Of course, no celebration is complete without fun—and there was plenty to go around! Everyone enjoyed cotton candy, balloon animals, face painting, lawn games, and a lively DJ who kept the energy up all afternoon. We even had a special magic show as the finale to the day.

Activities banner

We are grateful to the incredible partners who made this event possible and helped bring so many resources under one roof:

  • Viva La Beauty

  • D Strands Barbershop

  • El Valle 46

  • Oak Street Health

  • Alvin Ailey Dance

  • Silva Dance Company

  • Northside Psychiatric Services

  • Once Upon A Time Dance School

  • The Klein and Cardali Law Group, PLLC

  • Rocky’s House of Magic

Events like this help us feel more connected to our community. Sharing joyful moments, offering helpful resources, and spending time together outside of our regular programming brings us closer to the neighborhood we’re proud to be part of.

Thank you to everyone who showed up and added to the joy of the day. Your presence made this event truly special!

SHARE POST