We need your help!  The Mayor plans to eliminate seven Beacon programs, which may include QCH’s highly successful program at JHS 190, in his FY 2013 budget.  Our program, which serves as a year-round community center for youth and adults in the borough may be slated for elimination effective July 1, because of its Forest Hills zip code.  The list of programs that may close is based on New York City Department of Youth and Community Development’s (DYCD’s) Out of School Time (OST) priority zip codes.  Since our Beacon program is not in a priority zip code, it may be at risk.

Young people and residents from neighborhoods across Queens have attended programming at QCH’s Beacon.  Based upon the high rates of participation, there is a demonstrated need for the program.  It has received high ratings by the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development’s Beacon performance measures.  Leadership development, educational enrichment and literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, counseling, social skills and recreational activities are promoted through the program. 

Decisions will be made soon.  And agencies will be notified in January, so please support us in our advocacy efforts!

Here’s how you can help:

Call 311 to reach Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s Office.
Mayor’s E-MAIL: http://www.nyc.gov/html/mail/html/mayor.html
Mayor’s Twitter: http://twitter.com/nycmayorsoffice

Call (718) 544-8800 to reach City Council Member Karen Koslowitz.
Koslowitz’s website to leave your concern: http://council.nyc.gov/d29/html/members/home.shtml
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Facebook Karen Koslowitz; http://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Koslowitz/119475124337

Call (718) 286-3000 to reach Queens Borough President Helen Marshall’s Youth Services Office.
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Suggested phone or email script:
I am concerned about the Mayor’s 2013 budget calling for the ELIMINATION of 7 Beacon programs based upon the DYCD OST NON priority zip codes.  Our Beacon Program at JHS 190 has served young people and residents from all over Queens (many of which are high need areas), has demonstrated need based upon our high rates of participation (ROP) and high quality as rated by DYCD Beacon performance measures. Please prioritize and ensure that this program continues to remain open and fulfill its mission of serving our young people and community residents.