Dear Global Kids Community,
As we close out Hispanic Heritage Month, we are proud to celebrate the people and moments that reflect the heart of Global Kids. This month, we highlight Altagracia Figueroa, a Community School Director whose work empowers students and families to thrive. From creating supportive classroom environments to pioneering an engaging weekly “passport” program exploring global cultures, Altagracia inspires curiosity, leadership, and a love of learning.
Our students continue to make their voices heard both locally and globally. During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), youth leaders participated in panels on climate action and mental health, sharing their perspectives and proposing solutions alongside policymakers and city officials. Meanwhile, back-to-school initiatives at PS96 and PS21 provided essential resources, fun activities, and community connections to ensure a strong start to the year.
We are also thrilled to announce that Global Kids has been named one of City & State New York’s 2025 Top Workplaces. This honor reflects the dedication, collaboration, and mission-driven spirit of our incredible staff, who inspire students to make a meaningful impact every day.
Thank you for being part of our community and for continuing to champion the power of youth leadership. We invite you to discover more about our students’ inspiring work and experiences this season!
Youth Voices Take Center Stage: Climate and Mental Health Panels at UNGA
As part of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and New York Climate Week, Global Kids partnered with Peace Boat US to co-host a high-level luncheon on the ocean–climate nexus at United Nations Plaza in New York City. Titled “From UNOC to Belém: Elevating Ocean Priorities in the Climate Agenda,” the gathering brought together global leaders, policymakers, and advocates to explore how ocean action can drive meaningful climate solutions.
Among the voices shaping the conversation were three Global Kids youth leaders, who took the stage to share their perspectives on youth leadership, environmental justice, and the vital role of young people in shaping global climate policy.
Throughout the afternoon, students and participants engaged in dynamic discussions about the ocean’s critical role in addressing the climate crisis – examining community-led innovations, policy development, and the interconnected goals of climate resilience and social justice. The event also spotlighted the work of the Ocean and Climate Cluster, a growing coalition committed to amplifying local leadership from coastal communities, Indigenous peoples, and Small Island Developing States.
Global Kids’ engagement at UNGA extended beyond climate action. In collaboration with the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs Junior Ambassadors, students took part in a #YouthLead Festival panel organized by the UN Youth Office, focused on youth mental health. We were honored to have Assemblymember Emerita Torres as the keynote speaker for the event, bringing together Bronx and Queens youth, local leaders, and global organizations to discuss climate and environmental justice.
Assemblymember Torres highlighted the importance of including youth voices – often excluded from global dialogue – while fostering youth engagement with international institutions. She also emphasized the value of connecting local communities to global conversations and reaffirmed her commitment to advancing this work.
In addition, two Global Kids students represented the Mayor’s Office, using their voices and experiences to illuminate the challenges young people face and advocate for more inclusive, youth-centered mental health systems.
In breakout sessions, students identified key challenges and proposed innovative strategies to strengthen mental health support within local and global communities. When reporting back, youth leaders shared a series of tangible “asks” for city agencies and governments worldwide, leaving everyone in the room inspired, informed and motivated to drive lasting change.
Preparing Students for Success: Global Kids Hosts Back-to-School Initiatives
Global Kids kicked off the 2025–2026 school year with back-to-school events at PS96 in Manhattan and PS21 in Brooklyn, providing critical resources and meaningful support to students and families in the community.
At PS96, we distributed backpacks filled with school essentials, Global Kids-themed prizes, gift cards, and pantry items, equipping families with the tools they need to thrive in the year ahead.
Meanwhile, PS21’s event brought the community together with donated backpacks, Crocs, and school supplies, alongside fun activities like games and bouncy houses. Attendees also benefited from discounted meals from local chef Daron Lison, reinforcing both nourishment and connection in a vibrant, welcoming environment.
These initiatives were made possible through the generosity and collaboration of PS21 School, T&T Community Development Corp, Daron Lison, community volunteers, and Global Kids’ parent leaders. We are grateful to everyone who helped make these events a success and look forward to seeing our students continue flourishing!
Hispanic Heritage Month Feature: Altagracia Figueroa, Community School Director
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are proud to spotlight Altagracia Figueroa, a Community School Director with Global Kids and Licensed Master Social Worker whose decade-long career in youth development and education reflects her deep commitment to empowerment and equity. Altagracia is passionate about cultivating supportive environments where students and families feel seen, connected, and inspired to grow.
A tireless advocate for vulnerable communities, she amplifies the voices of migrants and unaccompanied minors, ensuring access to vital resources, education, and emotional support. Through her leadership, Altagracia bridges schools, families, and community organizations to develop programs that promote equity, social-emotional learning, and leadership development.
She also brings a spirit of adventure to the classroom. Each week, her students “travel” to a new country, exploring historical landmarks, local cuisine, and cultural traditions before receiving a stamp in their passport. This imaginative initiative encourages curiosity, cultural awareness, and global awareness, encouraging students to see themselves as citizens of a broader world.
Driven by compassion and a deep belief in the potential of every child, Altagracia continues to champion initiatives that strengthen communities and help students develop into engaged global citizens.
Global Kids Recognized as One of City & State New York’s 2025 Top Workplaces
Global Kids is proud to be recognized as one of City & State New York’s 2025 Top Workplaces – a distinction that celebrates our mission-driven community where purpose and passion come together to create real change.
Every day, our team works to educate, inspire, and empower youth to become global citizens, centering their voices, needs, and aspirations in every decision we make. Through this commitment, Global Kids not only transforms students’ lives, but also strengthens families, schools, and communities across New York City and beyond.
Our incredible staff work tirelessly to create meaningful opportunities that embolden youth to lead, while fostering a culture of collaboration, learning, and transformation. Rooted in equity and resilience, Global Kids is not just a workplace; it’s a community shaping a brighter future for the students, families, and communities we serve.
This recognition is a testament to the people who make it all possible: our dedicated team and the inspiring students who motivate us every single day. Together, we’re shaping a brighter, more just future for generations to come.
Global Kids Hosts Annual Golf Classic to Support Youth Leaders
On September 30, Global Kids hosted its Annual Golf Classic at Pelham Country Club, bringing together supporters, partners, and friends for a day of camaraderie, friendly competition, and celebration. The event featured both short- and long-range golf, a cocktail reception, and an awards ceremony, creating the perfect blend of fun and networking.
Proceeds from the Golf Classic directly support Global Kids’ programs for young leaders in New York City and Washington, D.C., providing opportunities for hands-on learning, leadership development, and global exploration. These programs help students build critical skills, gain confidence, and prepare to make a positive impact in their communities.
Beyond the excitement of the day, the event served as a powerful reminder of the remarkable network of supporters driving Global Kids’ mission forward. We’d like to thank our incredible sponsors for supporting this special day, including Harlem Community Development Corporation, Richard & Janice Roberts, GreenbergTraurig, Community Preservation Corporation, Four Seasons Promos, 1811 Consulting, and more.
Click through the gallery below to view more photos from the event!
