Today, in place of their 22nd Annual Community Awards Dinner, NIA Community Services Network has launched their Annual Fall Fundraising campaign virtually. The three-week fundraiser will help cover operating costs so they can continue to support the families and communities they serve throughout New York City. The campaign will run through December 1st, 2020, known as #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving.

NIA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been committed to strengthening and empowering children, families, and communities through after school programs and vital human services for nearly 40 years. Their work has never been more essential than it is now as we enter the eighth month of COVID-19. This year, NIA has been working harder than ever to adapt to the changing needs of the communities they serve. Since the pandemic began, their social services team has assisted over 1,000 community members in need through free assistance with healthcare, SNAP, senior support, unemployment, Meals on Wheels, Price Gouging, Home Health Aides, personal health, and much more.

Since NYC public school students are all either learning from home or only able to attend school in-person for a limited number of days each week, NIA’s after school programs have been working tirelessly to help supplement for lost hours of learning and to provide students with social-emotional support and fun, engaging opportunities. These after school communities, both in-person and online, give thousands of students the opportunity to connect with friends, receive academic support, attend extracurricular clubs, and be themselves in this stressful time. NIA is also providing resources to families, conducting wellness checks, and holding virtual classes that are open to the public, such as family art activities and family literacy events.

"NIA remains steadfast in our mission, building strong children, strong families, and strong communities. We are so grateful to our school and community partners, and thankful for our talented staff who have worked so tirelessly in the face of many challenges this year. We are so blessed to have the privilege of collaborating with so many wonderful people, dedicated to ensuring better life experiences for all we serve." said NIA Community Services Network President Michael A. Bové and CEO Mary Anne Cino in a joint statement.

Starting today, NIA hopes to raise funds to support operating costs and strengthen the programming they provide to thousands of families and community members. Those interested in joining NIA’s funding efforts can visit https://bit.ly/NIA-fundraiser.

 About NIA Community Services Network

Since 1981, NIA has been creating solutions that address a broad range of issues our communities face throughout New York City. NIA serves thousands of children, seniors, and families through access to free after-school programs, Beacon community centers, events, family guidance, literacy initiatives, and community assistance and referral services. To learn more, visit www.niabklyn.org or call 718-236-5266.

###