Children’s Programs and Services

What is the UMCS Children's Program?

Churches are often the most visible, trusted and influential institutions in our communities, they are ideally positioned to serve as partners with local schools, other community-based organizations and families working to create a safe environment in which children can thrive.

For the past 21 years the United Methodist City Society, has provided guidance and assistance to churches that operate after-school and summer programs.  In this model the City Society provides support to 8-14 churches per year which allows for the development of more effective program management and operation systems – giving staff and leadership at these churches the tools to provide more impactful programming to the children and families they serve.

 

What Does the UMCS program provide?

Through this initiative the City Society provides program assistance and financial support to churches that operate after-school programs for children ages 6 – 14 years in New York City. This assistance includes training for program staff on topics such as program development, community-based collaboration, evaluation, staff management, proposal writing and board governance; funding for specialized staff and projects such as certified teachers, creative arts programs in music, photography and drama; and management assistance in such areas as board development, staff and volunteer management, shared space, lease agreements, etc. The City Society also sponsors quarterly network meetings for program directors to share information and discuss best practices. 

As a result, the children served by our centers improve their academic performance, learn new skills, get exposed to the creative arts and sciences, enhance their self-esteem and confidence and broaden their future options in education and careers. 

Churches Funded
$
Funding Allocated
Children Served

How Can My Church Be a Part of the UMCS Children's Program?

Who Qualifies

To be considered for the Children’s Program, churches must fall under the following categories:

  • Existing Afterschool Program (programs operating for 2 or more years)
  • Pilot Year Programs (1st year programs)
  • Startup Program (in the planning stage of operating a program)

Requirements for Participation
Funding is provided to programs that meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Serves a minimum of 10 students
  • Has a minimum of 3 staff/volunteers
  • Operates 5 days per week
  • Directors & staff attend UMCS workshops and trainings

Program Services
All programs under the Children’s Program should provide homework assistance and a minimum of one additional enrichment activity.

Summer Day Camp Programs

Churches are often the most visible, trusted and influential institutions in our communities, they are ideally positioned to serve as partners with local schools, other community-based organizations and families working to create a safe environment in which children can thrive.

For the past 21 years the United Methodist City Society, has provided guidance and assistance to churches that operate after-school and summer programs.  In this model the City Society provides support to 8-14 churches per year which allows for the development of more effective program management and operation systems – giving staff and leadership at these churches the tools to provide more impactful programming to the children and families they serve.