Global Kids Chronicles | November 2025
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Dear Global Kids Community,
With the season of giving upon us, we are proud to share recent moments that showcase the creativity, leadership, and curiosity thriving across our sites in New York City and Washington, D.C.
This fall, youth leaders participated in Lights On Afterschool, the nationwide celebration of afterschool programs. From Bronx Lab High School’s M Squared program fostering gratitude, to P.S. 21 students collaborating on arts projects, and HSGC students enjoying creative enrichment activities, our students explored new skills, expressed themselves, and gained confidence – demonstrating the lasting impact of quality afterschool programming.
Building on that creativity and momentum, our Annual 5K Run/Walk/Push & Family Day brought together more than 100 participants for a day of fitness, fun, and community. Proceeds strengthen our school-based, afterschool, and citywide programs that empower over 14,000 students to develop leadership skills, courage, and global perspectives.
We are also thrilled to recognize the leadership behind our mission: Dominique R. Jones, Executive Director, was named one of Politics NY’s 2025 Power Players in Education, and Young Sook Na, Vice President of Finance, was honored as a City & State New York 2025 Unsung Hero. Their dedication ensures Global Kids continues to provide transformative opportunities for students.
Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving season. Thank you for your continued partnership and belief in what our students can achieve. We look forward to sharing more moments of impact with you in the weeks ahead!
Global Kids Celebrates Lights On Afterschool Across NYC Schools
In October, Global Kids joined the nationwide Lights On Afterschool celebration, an annual event that spotlights the essential role afterschool programs play in the lives of children, their families, and communities. Organized by the Afterschool Alliance, the initiative showcases the many ways afterschool programs spark curiosity, creativity, and growth—whether through science experiments, robotics challenges, Tae Kwon Do, poetry, or community service projects—and underscores the ongoing need for high-quality programs that give all students the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.
Across our school sites, students marked the celebration in dynamic and meaningful ways:
WHEELS students participated in the “Future is Bright” project, creating posters that expressed their passions and dreams – from becoming doctors, teachers, scientists, and artists to animators, pilots, influencers, and even train operators.
Bronxdale students completed activity forms reflecting on how afterschool programming has shaped their lives. One standout story came from high school senior Hillary Asiedu, who spoke warmly about her experience with Global Kids. She shared that she loved “being part of a community with diverse backgrounds” and credited the organization with providing her “an opportunity that eventually led to obtaining a scholarship.”
Bronx Lab High School highlighted its student-led M Squared program, which explores Muslim culture and builds community across diverse backgrounds. Students reflected on gratitude, the importance of afterschool programs and what they’ve learned throughout the year.
P.S. 21 students engaged in a collaborative arts workshop, creating a group poster that visually represented their experiences with Global Kids. Their reflections—ranging from learning about anti-bullying, building new friendships, and developing stronger math skills—demonstrated the program’s impact on academic, social, and emotional growth.
HSGC students participated in a festive lunchtime club, featuring pumpkin painting and creative activities leading up to Halloween.
Through these celebrations, Global Kids showcased the meaningful impact of afterschool programs in helping students cultivate new skills, gain self-assurance, and become thoughtful, active participants in their communities. Lights On Afterschool was a vibrant reminder of the power of afterschool learning to transform lives, strengthen communities, and inspire the next generation.
Celebrating Youth Leadership and Fitness at Global Kids’ 5K Run/Walk/Push
This month, Global Kids hosted its Annual 5K Run/Walk/Push & Family Day at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, uniting students, families, and community members from across the five boroughs for a dynamic day of fitness, celebration, and connection. More than 100 participants took part in the race, filling the park with energy and enthusiasm.
The event offered something for everyone, featuring both a competitive timed run and a non-competitive walk/run for participants of all ages and abilities. The timed race showcased remarkable talent – including Global Kids youth leader Yuri Cortazar who claimed first place overall. After crossing the finish line, attendees came together for an awards ceremony complete with medals, prizes, and student voices underscoring the vital role of afterschool programs in their lives.
Proceeds from the 5K directly support Global Kids’ school-based, afterschool, and citywide programs, which provide more than 14,000 students across New York City and Washington, D.C. with the resources, mentorship, and experiences they need to thrive. From academic support to leadership development, college and government visits, and international service-learning opportunities, these programs empower young people to broaden their horizons, build confidence, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Global Kids Celebrates Leadership Recognitions
Global Kids is proud to celebrate two members of our senior leadership team for their recent recognitions. Executive Director Dominique R. Jones was named one of Politics NY’s 2025 Power Players in Education, honoring her exceptional leadership and commitment to expanding high-quality opportunities for underserved youth.
Under her guidance, Global Kids has grown to 31 sites across New York City and Washington, D.C., strengthening programs, expanding partnerships, and advancing our mission to empower young people with global perspectives and leadership skills.
We also congratulate Young Sook Na, Vice President of Finance, who was recognized by City & State New York as a 2025 Unsung Hero. With nearly three decades of nonprofit finance experience, she has modernized Global Kids’ financial systems, enhanced organizational efficiency, and ensured responsible stewardship of resources that directly benefit thousands of students each year.
These distinctions underscore the strength and dedication of the leaders who guide Global Kids’ work every day. We are proud to recognize Dominique and Young Sook for their commitment to our students, our staff, and the communities we serve.
Empower the Next Generation This Giving Tuesday
Mark your calendars for Giving Tuesday on December 2, the worldwide day of generosity! Your support helps Global Kids provide young people with the tools, experiences, and guidance they need to achieve their goals, become leaders in their communities, and develop into well-rounded, confident individuals. For more than 35 years, we’ve been helping students turn potential into impact – thank you for being part of the journey. To support our programs or get involved, click HERE.
