The Newsletter Of Harlem RBI | DREAM Charter School | Written By Harlem RBI And DREAM Youth
VOLUME 21, ISSUE 1 | FALL 2014
A STANDING OVATION FOR MARIANO RIVERA
BY JUSTIN PEREZ, HARLEM RBI LEGEND ready to perform in front of 800 guests. Besides, I already had experience speaking in front of a similar crowd at Bids for Kids the year before.
Every year, Harlem RBI raises money at an annual gala known as Bids for Kids. This year’s gala was, held at Cipriani 42nd Street on June 16, 2014. Eight hundred attendees shared a delicious dinner, bid on auction prizes and honored Harlem RBI and DREAM suppporters.
When I got up on stage, I did just what any baseball player would do - I focused on my delivery, spoke my lines naturally, and exited the stage with a big sigh of relief. It was a piece of cake!
This year was special. Honorees included James B. Lee, Jr., Vice Chairman, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and New York Yankees Great Mariano Rivera. Known affectionately as, “Mo” by his fans, Rivera is a long-time hero of mine and I was priveleged to meet him.
Little did I know that my night was about to get even better. As I sat at my table with the 2014 senior class, speakers came up to pay tribute to the evening’s honorees, James B. Lee Jr. and Mariano Rivera. There was also an auction, which helped Harlem RBI on their way to raising $3.6 million. One highlight from the auction was when Mark Teixeira, Harlem RBI Board Member and New York Yankees First Baseman, came on stage to help sell items. Mariano Rivera even donated game-used gear from his final season.
My role was to perform a skit about a batter’s inner monologue as he steps up to the plate and tries to drive in the winning run. At first, the batter is cocky. He has been perfect at the plate all game, with four hits in four at-bats. When he gets up to the plate with the bases loaded and one out, he is thinking that he will tie his record for most hits in a game and win it all for the team. Once he gets to
After the auction, the honorees came on stage to accept their awards which included a trophy and an authentic Harlem RBI jersey. After Jimmy Lee spoke, I had the honor of escorting Mariano Rivera to the stage. It felt like fulfilling a life-long dream, since I grew up idolizing players like him! I was speechless as he walked up to me and shook my hand. I tried to say something, but only jumbled words came out. When I was finally able to say something, I said, “It is a great pleasure to finally meet you.” And I asked him if we could take a photo. I felt so honored.
ONE LINE STILL RESONATES IN MY MIND: “EDUCATION IS BIGGER THAN BASEBALL,” [MARIANO RIVERA] SAID.
the plate, though, he realizes the team is bigger than just him. All he needs to do is hit a fly ball to the outfield so the runner on third can tag up and score. My skit was one of three monologues that Harlem RBI alumni performed that night. Justina Sharrock and Robert Saltares, a catcher and a pitcher respectively, performed the other skits. Each one was different and personal in its own way. Guests received an in-depth look at what it means to be a baseball or softball player. They were able to see what goes on in our heads as we step up to bat, put on catcher’s gear or throw for that third strike. To complete these skits, we trained with the Harlem RBI Communications team for three weeks. The first step was
Justin Perez was speechless as he met one of his childhood idols, Mariano Rivera. Justin grew up as a Yankees fan, and was overjoyed to meet the Yankees Great. to draft a script. We met with Elz Cuya Jones, Director of Communications, to discuss what goes through a player’s head on the field. After a few revisions, we finally presented our skits to the larger team. Preparing the skit was easy for me, since I play baseball and know the mindset of a ballplayer. After I performed in front of the Harlem RBI team, I felt confident and
A SECOND HOME In one corner, players are crouched in ready position to field ground balls. Across the room, players hustle to run and track balls practicing the outfield position. On the other side, players perfect their technique to field backhand ground balls. Welcome to Harlem RBI’s Fieldhouse. The Fieldhouse, located at the corner of 116th Street and Second Avenue, is a brand new indoor facility for Harlem RBI youth to enhance and strengthen fundamental baseball and softball skills year-round. Finding a place to practice in the winter months can be difficult in New York City. The Fieldhouse - minus the fresh air - is the closest thing that we can get to the Field of Dreams during that season. Pitchers can throw bullpen sessions, infielders can practice ground balls on authentic turf that feels similar to outdoor grass and hitters can step into the cage to take a few swings. The Fieldhouse also has a weight room for youth to build strength. All of these advantages, coupled with the fact that excellent role models are always available, give Harlem RBI participants an edge as they enhance their fundamental skills in the off-season. Harlem RBI’s student-athletes practice diligently to improve their baseball and softball skills under the
As Mariano approached the stage, the DJ played his Yankees walkup song, “Enter Sandman” by Metallica came on, and the crowd was on their feet. During his five-minute speech, all eyes were on him as everyone listened attentively. One line still resonates in my mind: “Education is bigger than baseball,” he said. This was my favorite quote because it is one of the values that I learned during my time at Harlem RBI. And the Yankees super star shared the same message with a room full of people who respect him. I think it is an important lesson that all people should learn. Because you cannot be a studentathlete without being a student first. Thank you Harlem RBI for giving me the opportunity to meet Mariano Rivera. It is not every day that you get to meet one of your heroes. This is something I will share with my kids one day.
BY GABRIELA ALVARADO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, HARLEM RBI LEGEND
guidance of Baseball and Softball Coordinator Kevin Salguero. Kevin runs and maintains the Fieldhouse and trains Harlem RBI’s high school baseball and softball players five days per week. Kevin’s softball and baseball workout lesson plans are designed for athletes to embody the Harlem RBI mission to inspire youth to recognize their potential and realize their dreams on and off the field.
THE FIELDHOUSE WILL PROVIDE AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE YOUTH CAN GROW AND MATURE ON AND OFF THE FIELD.
In addition to practices and clinics for Harlem RBI youth, there is the Saturday Night Lights program. Funded by the New York County District Attorney’s Office, Saturday Night Lights offers non-Harlem RBI participants a chance to train with Harlem RBI baseball and softball coaches while learning more about the organization’s coaching methods. The Fieldhouse will provide an environment where youth can grow and mature on and off the field. It’s a place where youth can practice their curveballs and change-ups, lift weights to get stronger, hang out with some positive role models and continue to play, learn and grow.
PLAY
LEARN
GROW
The Fieldhouse, on 116th Street and Second Avenue, provides a place for youth to play even during the cold winter months.
HARLEM RBI
MAKING THE BEST “YOU” POSSIBLE
MORE THAN JUST A JOB BY FREDDY MEJIAS, 12TH GRADE, GRAYS
BY GABRIELA ALVARADO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, HARLEM RBI LEGEND I remember the day like it was yesterday. After six years as a Harlem RBI participant, graduation day arrived in the summer of 2013. My teammates and I sat together laughing and smiling, waiting for our names to be called for awards and certificates. “And the award for exemplifying the Harlem RBI value of Respect goes to...Gabriela Alvarado!” The crowd roared with applause as I got up in shock to receive my award. As I shakily walked up to the podium under the bright sun, I remember thinking, “Why me?” The question of why was I chosen bothered me as I made my way back to my seat. Looking down at the big, bold letters that spelled RESPECT, the answer suddenly came to me as fast as a 50 mile-per-hour softball pitch, waiting to be hit out of the park. The reason why I was chosen to receive the award is because over the past six years, I was able to build my self-respect, with the help of my talented Harlem RBI coaches. Of all the inspiring, caring coaches I’ve had the pleasure of training with, Angel Perez, Matt Hittenmark and John and Kelly Harpula stand out. Every practice led by these coaches taught me that self-respect means recognizing your flaws, admiring your unique talents and understanding that no one is perfect. But it took a lot to get there. All the sweat, bruises and sore muscles were worth it. While some practices were painful and difficult, I truly admire my coaches for teaching me that having respect for self and others is an essential component of a leader on and off the field.
MY HARLEM RBI EXPERIENCE WILL ALWAYS REMAIN A PART OF MY LIFE. WORDS DO NOT DO JUSTICE TO EXPLAIN WHAT THIS ORGANIZATION HAS DONE TO SHAPE ME INTO THE PERSON I AM TODAY. While Harlem RBI does so much to help me achieve personal goals or maintain a positive attitude, it is ultimately up to me to complete the journey toward self-respect. Instead of reliving the negative emotions of striking out at the plate or failing a test, I learn from my mistakes and use what I learn at my next at bat or test. In my opinion, I should be giving the RESPECT Award to Harlem RBI. Every opportunity Harlem RBI offered taught me that by loving and respecting myself, I could properly treat others with respect and also receive respect in return. My Harlem RBI experience will always remain a part of my life. Words do not do justice to explain what this organization has done to shape me into the person I am today. Through each opportunity that is designed to secure a brighter future, Harlem RBI remains a beacon of hope for youth. The organization’s dedicated professionals will continue to motivate future generations to create positive change for themselves and the community through the embodiment of Harlem RBI values.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Gabriela Alvarado
Harlem RBI Report
STAFF WRITERS Martha Aristy Jose Cruz Nalani Marzan Freddy Mejias Miracle Morales Justin Perez Mawena Tafa DESIGNER Danni Fisher
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Administrative Coordinator, Yvette Santos (right) has been at Harlem RBI for eight years. Her care and compassion for the youth of East Harlem are what makes her a valued member of the staff. Judy Padilla (left), parent and current staff member, has developed a close relationship with Yvette over the years.
Harlem RBI is filled with loving and caring staff, but to me, one person in particular stands out: Yvette “Den Mother” Santos, Administrative Coordinator at Harlem RBI’s program space. Yvette is the first person people see when they enter 1960 First Avenue. She is a protector of Harlem RBI’s high school youth. The kids all listen to her and engage in conversation with her whenever they have an issue. And like any other Den Mother, she protects her children. Yvette is loved and admired by everyone who receives her warm greeting as they walk through Harlem RBI’s doors. Yvette’s days are filled with tasks that ensure Harlem RBI’s program space runs like a well-oiled machine. 1960 First Avenue is a popular place for staff to hold meetings, youth to study and families to meet with other members of the Harlem RBI community. Yvette handles room reservations for spaces in the office and manages food orders for youth who participate in after-school programs. She also works with the Facilities team to make sure that 1960 First Avenue is a safe place for kids to play, learn and grow. Although her days are full of administrative tasks, she still finds time for the youth of Harlem RBI. She always finds time to support the youth in their daily academic, social and emotional lives. Yvette has worked at
PHOTOS Patrick Kolts Michael Wilkenson Ellen Emerson White Matthew Zeigler EDITORIAL OFFICES 333 East 100th Street New York, NY 10029 212.722.1608 www.harlemrbi.org www.dreamschoolnyc.org
THIS DOES NOT FEEL LIKE A JOB, IT FEELS MORE LIKE A FAMILY. Harlem RBI for eight years and she plans to continue working with the organization for a long time. Staff members like Yvette are the reason why Harlem RBI has a family-like culture. Yvette said it herself, “This does not feel like a job, it feels more like a family.” Just like any other family, Yvette is always proud of the younger generation. “As I witness all these boys and girls walking through the doors of Harlem RBI and walking out as educated men and women, I experience a great deal of joy. And as I add their names to the ‘Where Are They Now?’ board —which shows the whereabouts of Harlem RBI alumni—it motivates me to continue my work,” Yvette said. Yvette’s impact on young people’s lives will continue to grow. Every day, she contributes to Harlem RBI’s tradition of helping kids recognize their potential and realize their dreams.
SUBMISSIONS We encourage students and alumni of all ages to contribute to the Harlem RBI Report. Prospective writers should contact the Communications department prior to submitting manuscripts. Please write to Neil Andrew Francisco, Communications Assistant, via email at nfrancisco@ harlemrbi.org or call 212.722.7105 ext. 291.
FALL 2014
A DREAM REALIZED
ALL OF THIS STARTED OUT AS AN IDEA, TO PROVIDE A SCHOOL FOR THE EAST HARLEM COMMUNITY THAT LEARNS BY USING THE POWER OF TEAMS.
BY JOSE CRUZ, 7TH GRADE, FORDHAM My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a sixth grader at DREAM Charter School. I have been at DREAM since 2012. As a scholar at DREAM, I have had the opportunity to witness DREAM grow from just an elementary school to a fully functional elementary and middle school that serves the East Harlem community.
two teachers in every classroom teaching all subjects. In middle school, teachers rotate through classes, and each one teaches a specific subject.
One thing, however, remains true for all DREAM scholars, regardless of their grade: They will all go to college. I know that when I reach college, I can look back at all of the progress I made at DREAM and say, “I am smarter today than I was back then!” Growth for DREAM does not stop here. Next year, we will open the first seventh grade class. Then, one year later, we will open the first eighth grade class. After that, it is possible that DREAM will open a high school. These developments show that DREAM scholars, as well as the organization as a whole, have shown progress towards achieving their goals. And in the end, this will all make East Harlem a better place to live and learn.
When DREAM Charter School opened in 2008, the goal was tough: create a school where kids from East Harlem can receive high-quality education. And in DREAM’s seven years of existence, I believe they have achieved just that. All of this started out as an idea, to provide a school for the East Harlem community that learns by using the power of teams, and now, DREAM has blossomed into a reality. This is an important step in the overall development of Harlem RBI and DREAM Charter School. In 2013, the first DREAM class entered as Kindergarteners in 2008. In 2013, they began the sixth grade and launched another milestone - The DREAM Middle School. At DREAM Middle School, classes are more focused on achieving college readiness. The structure of classes is also different. In elementary school, there were at least
DREAM Middle School scholars kick it up a notch with larger desks, smart polo shirts and single-subject classes like Social Studies and Science.
A HOME FOR DREAM BY MAWENA TAFA, 7TH GRADE, HOWARD
LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! LIKE US! Harlem RBI DREAM Charter School
FOLLOW US! @HarlemRBI @DREAMschoolNYC Harlem RBI and DREAM’s new building on 103rd Street and Second Avenue will be home to Harlem RBI’s administrative offices, DREAM Charter School classrooms and 90 units of affordable housing. After successfully building an elementary school and on the path to enrolling a full middle school, the question remains…what is next for DREAM? The answer is simple: a permanent home for DREAM Charter School in East Harlem. This building will allow us to finally have the space to support East Harlem youth who want to recognize their potential and realize their dreams. In addition to providing space for DREAM’s K-8 school, this permanent home will provide office space for Harlem RBI staff as well as 90 units of affordable housing for members of the East Harlem community. For DREAM, this new building will serve new people and have features that our current campus does not, such as: • • • • •
A rooftop greenhouse for gardening and life science A brand new auditorium Easier access to Harlem RBI, since the entire organization will be in one building New and updated technology in all DREAM classrooms A beautiful cafeteria and gymnasium
Ms. Eve Colavito, DREAM’s Head of School, says that one amazing part of the gym will be see-through walls, so that visitors can view our state-of-the-art facility. This shows that health and wellness is a key part to the DREAM educational model.
In addition to ample office space, the new building will provide housing through the New York City Housing Authority. A section of this large building will serve as public residential units for East Harlem community members. There will also be spots reserved in DREAM classes for kids who live in these housing units.
[THE NEW BUILDING] IS NOT JUST A SCHOOL FOR OURSELVES, IT IS FOR THE COMMUNITY. DREAM CHARTER SCHOOL IS TRULY ABOUT THE COMMUNITY.
FOLLOW US! @HarlemRBI
WATCH US! /harlemrbi2 /dreamschoolnyc
VISIT US! Ms. Colavito also said, “[The new building] is not just a school for ourselves, it is for the community. DREAM Charter School is truly about the community.”
www.harlemrbi.org dreamschoolnyc.org
With this new building set to open in 2015, it will be a DREAM come true.
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HARLEM RBI
THE BIG QUESTION
BY REAL KIDS
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
Zaireania, 2nd Grade, Bearcats
NEWS REPORTER
Mouhamad, 5th Grade, Hawks
SOCCER PLAYER
NAVY SEAL OR ANIMATOR
BALLERINA
FOOTBALL PLAYER
POLICE OFFICER
Skylla, Kindergarten, Kangaroos
Diamante, 4th Grade, Seawolves
Meyer, 4th Grade, Longhorns
Yoskar, 3rd Grade, Hurricanes
TEAMBUILDERS IN WASHINGTON D.C: ADVOCACY IN ACTION
BY NALANI MARZAN, 7TH GRADE, JAGUARS
My mother and I were getting ready to leave the house when her phone started ringing. It was Bess Massey, Harlem RBI’s Senior Social Worker. She said that my mom and I, along with a few other TeamBuilders (middle school students) and their parents, were selected to represent Harlem RBI in Washington, D.C. to talk to government officials about Harlem RBI and after-school funding. We could not wait! For two weeks, we attended meetings at Harlem RBI to discuss logistics and plan what to say when we met the officials. We shared what we knew and what we wanted to learn about our government. We also met with Harlem RBI’s Executive Director, Rich Berlin, and Director of Community and Government Affairs, Johnny Rivera. Together, they highlighted Harlem RBI’s historical progression into the successful program that it is today. Through the meetings we gained a better understanding about what our mission was for the trip to Washington, D.C.
HARLEM RBI’S SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT ENABLES YOUTH TO MATURE INTO RESPONSIBLE ADULTS AND CREATE RELATIONSHIPS WITH PEERS.
On February 19, my mother and I woke up at the crack of dawn, got dressed, grabbed our bags and headed to Harlem RBI. Along with other families and staff from Harlem RBI, we piled into the van. When everyone was settled, we started our five-hour drive to Washington, D.C. Five hours felt like an eternity, but I was so excited once we arrived. The hotel was beautiful. There was a pool with a jacuzzi and a gym. The beds were comfortable and the rooms were clean. After we checked in and dropped off our bags, we headed out to see Washington, D.C. landmarks like the White House, the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. It was an amazing 4
In addition to meeting with representatives from Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Rangel’s offices, TeamBuilders visited many landmarks such as the Capitol building and the White House. first day in Washington, D.C., and I could not believe that we had the opportunity to see these historical landmarks. The next day, we woke up early, put on our Harlem RBI t-shirts and headed to our first meeting, which took place at Senator Charles Schumer’s office. We talked to one of his staff members, Shawn Bush, who understood our concerns. My mother and I spoke about the benefits of Harlem RBI’s after-school program in helping us grow and providing continuity in our lives. The second meeting was at Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s office, where we met with staff member Allyson Kelly. We all emphasized Harlem RBI’s mission of helping youth to play, learn and grow in a positive environment. I specifically spoke about the way in which Harlem RBI’s supportive learning environment enables youth to mature into responsible adults and create relationships
with peers. I also mentioned that Harlem RBI’s Social Workers, Bess Massey and Jen Martin, listen to youth and understand what we experience in our everyday lives. In the last meeting, we talked to representatives from Congressman Charles Rangel’s staff about Harlem RBI’s important role in assuring parents that youth participants are kept safe and secure. We explained that parents do not have to worry about their children’s whereabouts since Harlem RBI is a supportive place where kids get homework help, advice, assistance and guidance throughout their years in the program. All of the memories made in Washington, D.C.— developing new friendships, meeting new people and bonding with my mother—were things that I will keep in my heart. Best of all, I had the chance to tell people about the great things that Harlem RBI does for kids like me.
FALL 2014
A SPOTLIGHT ON HARLEM RBI’S SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
BRAND STRATEGY 101
BY MIRACLE MORALES, 8TH GRADE, COMETS
BY SELASE AVALIME, 11TH GRADE, LADY ROYALS
I joined Harlem RBI in September 2013, and it has become my second home. One reason for that is Bess Massey, Harlem RBI’s Senior Social Worker. Bess has been a part of Harlem RBI for six years. Her main role at the organization is to support Harlem RBI’s youth by helping them identify future goals and map out ways to achieve them. Bess shows genuine interest about issues concerning youth’s families, teams, school and every day lives. The Social Work team helps fulfill Harlem RBI’s mission by focusing on the emotional well-being of all Harlem RBI youth. They encourage youth to build self-esteem, increase communication skills, engage in healthy relationships and strengthen familial ties. They also provide emergency financial assistance to the Harlem RBI community. Overall, Harlem RBI’s Social Work team incorporates a wide array of services for youth and families. As Senior Social Worker, Bess conducts individual and family counseling. People can drop in or have on-going counseling. She also works with all Harlem RBI teams and provides relevant workshops. Individual sessions are scheduled for certain youth, but all students are welcomed to stop by when they need to. In addition to these duties, Bess and her colleagues make an effort to get to know all the youth on an individual level. For example, I have not been enrolled at Harlem RBI for a long time, yet she already knows so much about me. I always open up to her as if she has been a trusted friend for years because she is an empathetic and caring listener. One of my favorite memories with Bess is when my team and I were playing jump rope with Loanky de Jesus, TeamBuilders Program Coordinator. Bess came into the room and jumped right in. It was funny to see her jump
rope like that because she was dressed professionally. It shows how she loves to interact with us and embraces her inner “kid.” When I asked Bess how it feels to be a Harlem RBI role model, she said, “I love it and I’m inspired by learning from the youth.” Bess inspires me to be just like her because she is non-judgmental, fun, accepting and well-liked. What Bess loves most about her job is the opportunity to see people she has known for a long time complete big achievements. One of her favorite memories was attending Amanda DeJesus’ college graduation. Bess worked with Amanda since she was in the 9th grade. Amanda has since come back to work as a Learning Coach at Harlem RBI and is now her colleague.
BESS SAID, “I SEE SOCIAL WORK AS A PROFESSION THAT ADDRESSES SOCIETY’S INJUSTICES AND INEQUALITIES.” Bess wanted to become a social worker because she always cared about people and their feelings. She feels honored that people allow her into their lives in such an intimate way. She said, “I see social work as a profession that addresses society’s injustices and inequalities.” For years, Bess has been an incredible social worker and friend. Her friendliness does not just come from her contagious laugh, fun personality, or desire to get to know people, but mostly her ability to treat everyone like family. This is a big deal because in a family, everyone looks after each other. Bess is a model Harlem RBI employee because she is a perfect example of the organization’s family mentality.
Harlem RBI has used this logo since 2008. More than 23 years have passed since Harlem RBI opened its doors to inner-city youth in East Harlem. Since then, the organization has given the community a place to play baseball and softball, meet new friends and support generations of youth. Harlem RBI has been successful so far, evidenced by a 97 percent high school graduation rate and a 94 percent college acceptance rate. The next step in the organization’s plan is to take the success it has achieved in East Harlem and duplicate its program model around the country. The question remains, however, how will a community-based organization like Harlem RBI communicate its mission and culture to a broader national audience? After an interview with Elz Cuya Jones, Director of Communications at Harlem RBI and DREAM Charter School, I was able to get a better perspective on the foregoing question. Elz stated, “The Harlem RBI brand is more than just the name and the logo. It is our high school graduation rate, it’s the people who work here, it’s how you feel when you’re on our Field of Dreams. Our brand is the sum of all of your interactions with Harlem RBI.” During the summer of 2013, Harlem RBI took its first step toward national growth by expanding to the South Bronx, a neighborhood that is similar to East Harlem. In 2015, Harlem RBI plans to expand to another geographic location. Potential locations for this new program site include faraway places like Atlanta, Boston and Oakland, as well as nearby places like Westchester, Brooklyn and Trenton. But another issue that arises is whether a program in Atlanta or Boston can be named “Harlem RBI.” The name Harlem means a lot to New Yorkers, but will it carry the same weight in these other cities?
HARLEM RBI AIMS TO MAKE SURE THE BRAND RESONATES WITH THE COMMUNITIES AND NEIGHBORHOODS THAT IT HOPES TO SERVE. That is the question that Elz and her team are trying to answer right now. To help Elz and Harlem RBI through this process, they enlisted the help of Redscout, a brand strategy firm, to help conduct research on possibly changing Harlem RBI’s name. Together, Harlem RBI and Redscout interviewed members of the community to get a better sense of what Harlem RBI’s name means to the people associated with it.
Even though she has been at Harlem RBI for a short period of time, Miracle has developed a strong relationship with Bess Massey, Senior Social Worker.
HARLEM RBI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DREAM BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Kenneth Rosh, CHAIR David S. Blitzer Todd Builione David Cohen Peter Daneker Katherine DeFoyd Stuart A. Fraser Maria Guadalupe-Sharp* Sarah Haga Michele Joerg Bob Kerrey Chris Leonard
Richard A. Berlin, CHAIR Ashish B. Doshi Michele Joerg Elizabeth Pawlson Andrés Satizábal Jonathan E. Schmerin Jacqueline Vallejo Eric Weingartner Claudia Zeldin
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Richard A. Berlin *Harlem RBI Alum
Kirk McKeown Colbert Narcisse Jaimin Rangwalla Jeff Samberg Vik Sawhney Robert Sheehan David Sobotka Jamie B.W. Stecher Mark Teixeira Don Truesdale Gregg Walker
HARLEM RBI HOME RUN LEADERSHIP COUNCIL Mark Teixeira, CHAIR Bill Bartholomay Michael Buckley Ken Burns Charlie Butler Tony Clark Robert Costas Gail Grimmet Daniel M. Healy Keith Hernandez Jeff Idelson Marc Jaffe, CHAIR EMERITUS Roberto Mignone Omar Minaya Sharon Robinson Steve Salem John Scotti
No decisions have been made yet regarding a change in Harlem RBI’s name. Harlem RBI aims to make sure the brand resonates with the communities and neighborhoods that it hopes to serve. Harlem RBI’s brand strategy process might also involve enhancing its logo. It is possible, though, that after completing their research, Harlem RBI will keep everything exactly as it is.
HARLEM RBI ALL-STAR COMMITTEE Andrew Aquino Steve Arocho Stephen Bellwood Meghan Bracken Tania Chebli Daniel Cohen Jared Cohen Rosanna Delia Elyse Dreyer Adam Fisher Nicole Foster Tom Fraser Joyce Fu Patrick Garrison David Kelley David Kirsch Vilas Kuchinad
Scott Lefever Matthew Luongo Chad Martin Michael Moutenot Guy Potvin Perry Rahbar Alberto Reyes Mark Romanczuk Andrés Satizábal Jake Sloane Emily Stecher Stephen Swindal, Jr. Brett Tanzman Nicholas Thorne Brad Visokey Joseph Wladyka
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HARLEM RBI
THE BASE USES ART TO TEACH ABOUT HIV/AIDS BY MARTHA ARISTY, SENIOR YOUTH LEADER, THE BASE The BASE, Harlem RBI’s youth leadership and peer education program, strives to educate and impact the community through peer empowerment and recognition of important issues like HIV/AIDS. The BASE achieves this through social media campaigns, participation in city-wide fundraisers such as AIDS Walk NYC and community based events in East Harlem. In April, The BASE hosted the first National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day event. At this event, the BASE used the power of art through spoken word, singing, dancing and rapping to educate the youth in the East Harlem community about the importance of knowing their health status and current HIV/AIDS statistics. For example, East Harlem remains a community with one of the highest rates of HIV infections in all of New York City.
EAST HARLEM REMAINS A COMMUNITY WITH ONE OF THE HIGHEST RATES OF HIV INFECTIONS IN ALL OF NEW YORK CITY.
The event brought more than 130 attendees from the community, which is a huge success. The BASE worked tirelessly before the event to promote it over Facebook and Instagram. They used the hashtag “#tHIVkaboutit” to cleverly raise awareness about HIV/AIDS related issues. Throughout the past year, The BASE hosted other successful events such as World AIDS Day, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and the AIDS Walk for New York City. The BASE also conducted outreach informing the community about its programs and services involving over 1,000 youth in East Harlem. And lastly, The BASE provided HIV/AIDS education called B.A.R.T (Becoming A Responsible Teen), an HIV prevention, evidence-based workshop for youth in the community, as well as providing referrals for various sexual health-related services through the STEP UP! Initiative. For more information on The BASE, visit facebook.com/TheBASE.HRBI.
Harlem RBI alumnus Justin Perez acts out a skit at HIV/AIDS Day.
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FALL 2014
DREAM ARTISTS DISCOVER CULTURE, HISTORY AND TECHNIQUE BY DREAM SCHOLARS Under the leadership of Ms. Erica Jones, DREAM’s Art Teacher, scholars have explored different art techniques. The art below is a selection of outstanding student work, hand selected by Ms. Jones.
“West African Mask” Amberlyn, 5th Grade
by
Students learned about West African culture and the importance of mask making. Here is representation of the masks’ spiritual connection with every day life. DREAM focused on Cameroonian style masks, exaggerating certain features to tell a story about their meaning.
“‘Hey Oh’ by The Lumineers” by Isaiah, 4th Grade After learning about artist Wassily Kandinsky and his use of music to create art, scholars created final paintings based on a contemporary song.
“Chinese Dragon” by Brigitte, 2nd Grade During Chinese New Year, students learned about the importance of the Dragon in Chinese culture. This dragon is a representation of the New Year celebration.
“Perspective” by Alexis, 5th Grade After learning about the Renaissance and the discovery of realism and expression, students used one point perspective to depict a street scene.
THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM SPONSORS 18U BASEBALL BGC Partners GRAYS Sponsored by BGC Partners Cantor Fitzgerald KINGS Sponsored by Cantor Fitzgerald 18U SOFTBALL McCord LADY YANKS Sponsored by Kathy Moskal McCord KPMG LADY ROYALS Sponsored by KPMG 16U BASEBALL EmblemHealth MONARCHS Sponsored by EmblemHealth BCF PRIDE Sponsored by Bulldogs Care Foundation 16U SOFTBALL Sawhney SAINTS Sponsored by Margarita & Vik Sawhney Delta Air Lines ANGELS Sponsored by Delta Air Lines 14U BASEBALL Samlyn Capital STARS Sponsored by Samlyn Capital, LLC Ariel Property Advisors TIGERS Sponsored by Ariel Property Advisors 14U SOFTBALL Harlem Shambles COMETS Sponsored by Harlem Shambles Kensington JAGUARS Sponsored by Kensington Publishing
12U BASEBALL Coleman EAGLES Sponsored by Vince Coleman 12U SOFTBALL BakerHostetler RAVENS Sponsored by BakerHostetler REAL KIDS SHARON ROBINSON LEAGUE MKZS BELLES Sponsored by Merideth & Ken Rosh
The Crunchers KNIGHTS Sponsored by RGL Forensics
OpSec Security TIGRES Sponsored by OpSec Security
Thunder & LIGHTNING Sponsored by Kathryn & Chris Leonard
Locos VAQUEROS Sponsored by Giselle & Tom Fraser
Rector Park PILOTS Sponsored by Josh Brodie Go Yard LLC KEYSTONES Sponsored by Go Yard LLC
HANK AARON ROOKIE LEAGUE E/A & Friends ATHLETICS Sponsored by Elyse & Anthony Dreyer Swinging CARDINALS Sponsored by Caroline Dries & Friends
SOUTH BRONX SHARON ROBINSON LEAGUE The Hoovers BLUE SOX Sponsored by Nicholas Val Napolitano Memorial Fund Capital One RED WINGS Sponsored by Capital One SOUTH BRONX JACKIE ROBINSON LEAGUE Kirsch ABC’S Sponsored by David Kirsch Collegiate CRAWFORDS Sponsored by Collegiate High School
BAML BLUE SOX Sponsored by Bank of America
REAL KIDS ROBERTO CLEMENTE LEAGUE Tiger Global ARENAS Sponsored by Tiger Global
Cooper PEACHES Sponsored by Edith & Robert DuPuy
Doshi AZTECAS Sponsored by Sweta & Ashish Doshi
The Vartabedian Foundation DODGERS Sponsored by The Vartabedian Family Foundation
Cassidy Turley COQUIS Sponsored by Cassidy Turley
Will & Trey GIANTS Sponsored by Thomas H. Patrick
PILOTS Sponsored by Vinny Tortorella
Hahn Foundation GIGANTES Sponsored by The Philip J. Hahn Foundation
Thorne Bros. MARLINS Sponsored by Nicholas & Nate Thorne
BARONS Sponsored by Allison & David Blitzer
Starkey LEONES Sponsored by Renee Reso
Mighty METS Sponsored by Anonymous
Wilf NextGen LOBOS Sponsored by The Wilf Family Foundation
Bulkington Group DIAMONDBACKS Sponsored by Patricia & Christopher Arndt
Schwenkel RED WINGS Sponsored by Robert Schwenkel DC Kids DAISIES Sponsored by Christina & Don Truesdale The Samberg Family SALLIES Sponsored by Debbie & Jeff Samberg REAL KIDS JACKIE ROBINSON LEAGUE Alvarez ABC’S Sponsored by Susanna & Glenn Hadden
86er’s PIRATAS Sponsored by Courtney & Joseph Wladyka
Bewtra BARONS Sponsored by Neeraj Bewtra
Sheehan SENADORES Sponsored by Elizabeth & Robert Sheehan
EC CRAWFORDS Sponsored by Eric Childs
All-Stars TAINOS Sponsored by Harlem RBI All Star Committee
All-Star HORNETS Sponsored by Shiv Chakraborty
Priceless TIBURONES Sponsored by Mike Moutenot
The Walsh Family YANKEES Sponsored by The Walsh Family Spaniards PIRATES Sponsored by Mike Motta Heroes ROCKIES Sponsored by Shanna Patterson & Friends
The Pinstriped KNIGHTS Sponsored by Stephen Swindal Jr.
SOUTH BRONX ROBERTO CLEMENTE LEAGUE COQUIS Sponsored by Rebecca & Kirk McKeown TAINOS Sponsored by Michael Koester LEONES Sponsored by Jamie Sutherland SENADORES Sponsored by Becky Diamond & Jamie Stecher VAQUEROS Sponsored by Karen & Todd Builione
7
The Newsletter Of Harlem RBI | DREAM Charter School | Written By Harlem RBI And DREAM Youth
VOLUME 21, ISSUE 1 | FALL 2014
ABOUT HARLEM RBI AND DREAM CHARTER SCHOOL Harlem RBI, a 501(c)3 non profit organization, began in 1991 when a group of volunteers transformed an abandoned, garbage-strewn lot into two baseball diamonds for the youth of East Harlem. Since then, Harlem RBI has grown to serve more than 1,500 boys and girls, ages 5-22, with year-round academic, sports and enrichment programs. Harlem RBI’s comprehensive approach to youth development replaces the barriers inner-city youth typically face with concrete opportunities to build the skills and confidence needed to graduate high school, matriculate to college and break the cycle of poverty. Since 2005, 95% of Harlem RBI seniors have graduated high school, 92% of seniors have been accepted into college and 99% of participants have avoided teen parenthood.
With your tremendous support, Harlem RBI and DREAM continue to beat the odds:
In 2008, after 17 years of working in East Harlem and producing exceptional results, Harlem RBI opened DREAM Charter School. DREAM’s mission is to prepare students for high-performing high schools, colleges and beyond through a rigorous academic program that develops critical thinkers who demonstrate a love of learning, strong character, and a commitment to wellness and active citizenship. DREAM Charter School inspires all students to recognize their potential and realize their dreams. Today the school serves 400 students and will grow one grade each year until it reaches capacity at 450 students, grades K-8.
• 95% high school graduation • 92% percent college acceptance *Since 2005
www.harlemrbi.org www.dreamschoolnyc.org
333 East 100th Street, New York, NY 10029
TAKE A LOOK INSIDE
PLAY
LEARN
FRONT
A Standing Ovation for Mariano Rivera
PAGE 2
More than Just a Job
PAGE 3
A Home for DREAM
PAGE 4
The Big Question: What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?
PAGE 5
A Spotlight on Harlem RBI’s Social Work Program
PAGE 6
The BASE Uses Art to Teach About HIV/AIDS
PAGE 7
DREAM Scholars Show Their Artistic Side
GROW