A study by the National Institute on Aging found that social isolation in older adults can have negative effects on health and well-being, including increased risk for depression and cognitive decline. Additionally, research from the National AfterSchool Association shows that after-school programs can improve academic performance, reduce risky behaviors, and increase social skills for children. By providing these types of programs, United Community Corporation in Newark, NJ can positively impact the lives of children and seniors in the community. In fact, UCC's social and educational programming has already helped over 500 children and seniors in the area, with 95% of parents reporting improved academic performance for their children and 85% of seniors reporting increased social connections and a better sense of community involvement.
West Side Park Community Center
600 S 17th Street, Newark, NJ 07103
973-642-0181 ext. 301
For more information, email: wsp@uccnewark.org
NITA M. LOWEY 21st CENTURY COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER PROGRAM (21st CCLC)
ABOUT THE NITA M. LOWEY 21st CENTURY COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER (21st CCLC) PROGRAM
The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program is authorized under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and reauthorized by The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015. The program provides federal funding for the establishment of community learning centers that provide academic, STEM activities, artistic and cultural enrichment opportunities for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools, in order to meet state and local standards in core academic subjects such as reading, math and science. This program is also intended to offer students a broad array of activities and to include families and the community in the educational process.
PROGRAM GOALS
- Increase Academic Enrichment: Provide tutorial services to support students, particularly those attending low-performing schools, in meeting challenging state academic standards.
- Offer a Broad Array of Services and Activities: Provide students with diverse opportunities, including youth development activities, service learning, nutrition and health education, drug and violence prevention programs, counseling, arts, music, physical fitness and wellness programs, technology education, financial literacy, environmental literacy, mathematics, science, career and technical programs. These activities are designed to reinforce and complement the students’ regular academic programs.
- Engage Families in Education: Offer families of students attending community learning centers opportunities for meaningful involvement in their children’s education, including financial literacy, community resources and related educational development initiatives.
AFTER SCHOOL SITES
South 17th Street Elementary School
619 S. 17th Street, Newark, NJ 07103
(973) 374-2570
UCC Contact: Maritsa Criado
Speedway Elementary School
701 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07106
(973) 374-2740
UCC Contact: Meghan Yergan
United Community Corporation Contacts
Yolanda Loney, Project Director
Yolanda.loney@uccnewark.org | 973-642-0181 ext. 300
Rhonda Battle, Project Coordinator
Rhonda.battle@uccnewark.org | 973-642-0181 ext. 300
How Do I Enroll My Child ?
To enroll your child in our programs, it's simple and easy. Click the appropriate link below and completely fill out the application and hit "Submit/Send." That's it!!!
PLEASE NOTE: THESE PROGRAMS ARE DEDICATED TO STUDENTS OF OUR PARTNER SCHOOLS ONLY.
If you or someone you know are in need of food, baby items, clothing, shelter, energy assistance, pending eviction or mortgage assistance, at risk of lead exposure at home, are a victim of a crime, and/or need youth development activities or young adult vocational training we have a department here to help!
UCC’s “Spring Into Action” Empowers Youth with a Safe, Enriching Spring Break Experience
UCC once again delivered an impactful week of programming through its 2nd Annual “Spring Into Action” initiative. The program provided Greater Newark youth a chance to thrive in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment.
Hosted by UCC’s Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) program through the Youth, Family, and Senior Services Department, the week-long event was held at West Side Park Community Center and packed with hands-on activities, life skills workshops, and athletic competitions.
This initiative was not only a spring break alternative but a strategic investment in youth empowerment. Each day featured a themed program that combined fun with purpose, offering spaces where young people could collaborate, express themselves, and learn skills that carry beyond the classroom.
From financial literacy through the "LIFIN" workshop, to youth-led storytelling in podcasting, to competitive flag football and basketball tournaments, Spring Into Action delivered an experience rooted in community and education.
Community Based Violence Intervention Program (CBVI)
THE PURPOSE
The Community Based Violence Intervention Program began in March 2022. The program is designed to provide services to youth between the ages of 13-23. Our main focus is on violence and assisting those that were convicted of violence, victims of violence and those that are considered at risk of being involved with violence. CBVI conducts workshops on different forms of violence including:
- Gang Violence
- School Violence
- Victims of Crime
- Domestic Abuse
- Elderly Abuse
- Violence in the LGBQT Community
Different events are coordinated to boost self-confidence, educate participants, and build bonds while interacting with professionals that the youth can emulate. The team creates workshops and activities to give the youth a change in their routine and an enjoyable means to distract from life’s stresses.This program uplifts youth and families to avoid violence and poverty that consumes their well-being.
United Community Corporation
"Moving people from dependency to self-sufficiency"