The CityKids Foundation
57 Leonard StreetNew YorkNY10013
212-925-3320212-925-0128

Program: The CityKids Repertory Year Started: 1985 Focus: Theater Youth Served: 80 Ages: 14-21 Budget: $100,000 The CityKids Foundation was started to bring together young people from diverse backgrounds--youth who would not ordinarily get the chance to meet each other--and provide them with a "safe space" for discussion and growth through participation in the CityKids Coalition. At Coalition meetings, held every Friday night, young people speak their minds, discuss issues of importance to youth and are heard with respect. The discussions at the CityKids Coalition meetings are the basis for original dramatic and musical material developed and performed by The CityKids Repertory, a nationally recognized company of 80 youth. CityKids Repertory meets on Saturdays at the CityKids Foundation facility. Half the day is devoted to the Life Training Institute, which provides training in conflict resolution, anti-violence techniques and other life skills. The other half of the day is spent in developing performance skills and rehearsing. A CityKids alumni/ae program provides opportunities for graduates, many of whom work in youth- serving community programs. "The kids are involved in every move the organization makes," says Director of Special Projects Carla Harman. "Some of the youth are on staff--theyÌre invested." Harman reports that many of the youth are going on to college and getting into careers in teaching or social services, and others have become professional dancers, singers and performers.