The New York Times published a letter from JCCA CEO Richard Altman about teens with trauma finding healing in the transformative power of art. "A deeper approach to successful treatment for abused, neglected or traumatized teenagers is through the arts," he writes. "Through storytelling, movement, visual art, drama and creative writing, teenagers explore their memories and feelings of being abandoned, hurt or abused. They understand more deeply what has happened to them." Read more >
“The creativity in the air is contagious,” the arts director gushes, “and we have cultivated a group of experienced performers (this is the third year for the benefit) who are very serious about ‘THEIR’ show.”
And so this year the benefit has become a major happening, transforming the Pleasantville campus into a likeness of the movie set of “Fame!” Rumor has it the kids are dancing in the hallways, in the recreation room between pool tables, in the cafeteria and outside in the square.
State Legislature Restores Funds for Vulnerable Teens
The New York State Legislature has agreed to fund $1.65 million to support the Safe Harbour Act. JCCA's Gateways program provides specialized services, structure, and the support of caring staff for victims of childhood sexual trafficking. Many thanks to all those who signed JCCA's petition on Change.org to inform state legislators about programs that help teens who have been sexually exploited. JCCA was part of the New York State Anti-Trafficking Coalition's Campaign Against the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children, whose efforts resulted in increased funding for Gateways and other programs.
First Graduation for JCCA's Arches Program
Surrounded by proud parents, smiling staff, and mentors, seven participants took part in the first graduating class of JCCA's Arches program. There were nine people in the class. Arches, a collaboration with the NYC Department of Probation, is a transformative mentoring program for young adults (ages 16-24) who are on probation. Based in Brownsville, Brooklyn, one of New York’s highest risk neighborhoods, it is a structured program that provides mentors who have had a personal experience with the juvenile justice system. According to Cherise Littlejohn, Director of Arches, "We are so proud of our young people. They were committed and dedicated to this program. They appreciated and respected the safe space, listening ears, and nurturing from the Arches staff. As a result, so many of them are able to make better decisions that affect their future.” One of the participants, Brandon, offered a reason for the success of the program. "In this group, I feel safe and I can let my guard down. This group allows me to be who I really am and work on some of the things I want to change about myself."
Celebrating the Spirit of JCCA's Cottage Schools Volunteers
On March 14, staff and residents of The Cottage Schools celebrated the accomplishments and remarkable spirit of 650 wonderful Cottage Schools volunteers. As Phina Geiger, Director of Volunteers, said, “You give our youth hope for themselves and their future.” Here is what Sarah, age 16, wrote: “My volunteer tells me I am beautiful, smart, and kind. I believe her. We even have a secret handshake. She makes me laugh. She remembers my birthday and surprises me with presents. I love her. I think everyone should have a volunteer to be happy for a lifetime.” You can download a PDF of all of the moving essays written by campus youth here:
What A Volunteer Means to Me
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JCCA's Brooklyn Democracy Academy Boys Basketball Team is the 2012-2013 Public School Athletic League Transfer School League Champion!
JCCA's Brooklyn Democracy Academy Boys Basketball Team is the 2012-2013 Public School Athletic League Transfer School League Champion!
Congratulations to all our athletes, coaches, and staff at Brooklyn Democracy Academy for working hard all season, playing a tough game, and winning the League Championship with a score of 66-47! We’re very proud of you. JCCA’s Brooklyn Democracy Academy, located in Brownsville, is a transfer school that provides a supportive educational environment to help students overcome obstacles, earn a high school degree, and create a plan for the future.
The New York Times published a letter from JCCA CEO Richard Altman about teens with trauma finding healing in the transformative power of art. "A deeper approach to successful treatment for abused, neglected or traumatized teenagers is through the arts," he writes. "Through storytelling, movement, visual art, drama and creative writing, teenagers explore their memories and feelings of being abandoned, hurt or abused. They understand more deeply what has happened to them." 
Surrounded by proud parents, smiling staff, and mentors, seven participants took part in the first graduating class of JCCA's Arches program. There were nine people in the class. Arches, a collaboration with the NYC Department of Probation, is a transformative mentoring program for young adults (ages 16-24) who are on probation. Based in Brownsville, Brooklyn, one of New York’s highest risk neighborhoods, it is a structured program that provides mentors who have had a personal experience with the juvenile justice system. According to Cherise Littlejohn, Director of Arches, "We are so proud of our young people. They were committed and dedicated to this program. They appreciated and respected the safe space, listening ears, and nurturing from the Arches staff. As a result, so many of them are able to make better decisions that affect their future.” One of the participants, Brandon, offered a reason for the success of the program. "In this group, I feel safe and I can let my guard down. This group allows me to be who I really am and work on some of the things I want to change about myself."
On March 14, staff and residents of 
JCCA's 
