LEAP trains and employs college and high school students to provide academic and social enrichment and mentoring after school and during the summer for children and teens in New Haven neighborhoods. Kids access swimming, gardening, camping, computer science, dance, music, and so much more. Register for our Children's Summer Camp Program! APPLY L eadership E ducation & A thletics in P artnership Teach children how to learn LEAP provides children with a welcoming environment to explore, grow, and develop key skills. Train young adults how to lead Teens and young adults are empowered to find their voice and serve as role models and leaders. Founded in 1992 It was created by educators, students, and community activists to combat the historic disinvestment in young people of color. 2 community centers and 7 neighborhood-based sites These spaces serve as safe, enriching environments for children and youth in New Haven. College and high school students counselors They lead younger students in literacy, the arts, and athletics, building both academic and interpersonal skills. Check Out Our Programs! After-School Program LEARN MORE Summer Program LEARN MORE Leaders in Training LEARN MORE Swimming Program LEARN MORE LEAP Bulletin Board Dive into Summer Fun with LEAP's FREE Program - Starts June 23rd! Get ready for an exciting summer with LEAP's FREE Summer Program, running from June 23rd to August 1st ! We offer a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn, grow, and have tons of fun right here in New Haven. Imagine overnight camping trips , exploring new horizons with field trips in and around the city , and engaging in enriching activities led by our amazing facilitators. Every child in our program also gets to enjoy swimming! All completely free! APPLY HERE Sign up for FREE Classes at the Q House! Enhance your creativity, physical health, and skill development at the Q House! They offer a range of FREE classes and workshops, from ceramics and art to music production and yoga; there's something for everyone! Unleash your artistic side, harmonize your tunes, or find your zen – all without any cost. Explore, learn, and thrive at the Dixwell Q House’s inclusive and enriching environment. Click here to sign up today! Featured Videos All About LEAP Support our programs! We are thankful for all of the support that help us keep LEAP running and serve New Haven's youth. SUPPORT

Let LEAP help you find important resources during the COVID-19 global pandemic. COVID-19 Resources Important Information for Kids, Parents & Families Regarding COVID-19 Internet Needs Talking to Kids about COVID-19 Medical Needs COVID-19 Updates Food, Rent & Unemployment Free Online Books At Home Activities LEAP Activity Videos

Mindfulness & Wellness Mental Health Services Protest Safety Healing Spaces and Resources for the Black Community Mindfulness & Wellness Mindfulness and Wellness Classes and Workshops One Village Healing (New Haven, CT and Online) “Established in April 2019, at the intersection of arts, liberation, and healing justice, One Village Healing [OVH] is an emerging New Haven based wellness and resilience initiative dedicated to creating spaces, gatherings, and programming, rooted in the values of the healing justice movement. OVH has emerged to assist in creating healing community for everyone. We believe it is imperative to create brave spaces for all people to heal from the emotional, physical and spiritual impacts of systems of oppression so that we can all live wildly liberated, connected, inspired, and healthy lives. OVH is led by WOC (women of color) who center radical inclusion, affinity healing, and joyfulness as core elements of this initiative. We center the specific healing needs of those most impacted by systems of oppression.” Zen Zilla Yoga and Wellness, LLC (New Haven, CT and Online) “Zen Zilla Yoga and Wellness, LLC. offers rhythmic yoga, guided meditation, and wellness coaching to the community, in addition to focused offerings for children, youth, and adults who work in urban settings. These programs are created by a certified yogi and Connecticut K-6 educator and they incorporate music as a means of healing and empowerment. To continue to offer support to the community, during this time of social distancing, you can sign up for Zoom classes via https://www.onevillagehealing.org/ .” HealHaus (Brooklyn, NY and Online) “At HealHaus, we’ve combined diverse healing modalities and practitioners under one roof to provide people with an inclusive space focused on holistic health and wellness. We are committed to building a community that is dedicated to changing the stigma attached to healing.” HealHaus is a Black-owned business and has provided a few workshops specifically for members of the Black community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, HealHaus provides online programming in yoga and meditation ($10/class and $30/month), workshops (free or cost varies), and private sessions (cost varies). Therapy and Mental Health Services Black Virtual Therapist Directory - from the Black Emotional and Mental Health (BEAM) Collective BEAM has started “an online directory of licensed Black therapists who are certified to provide telemental health services.” BEAM is training, movement building and grant making organization dedicated to the healing, wellness and liberation of Black and marginalized communities. Open Path Psychotherapy Collective “Open Path Psychotherapy Collective is a non-profit nationwide network of mental health professionals dedicated to providing in-office mental health care—at a steeply reduced rate—to individuals, couples, children, and families in need.” Melanin and Mental Health “Melanin & Mental Health® was born out of a desire to connect individuals with culturally competent clinicians committed to serving the mental health needs of Black & Latinx/Hispanic communities. We are committed to promoting the growth and healing of our communities through our website, online directory, and monthly events.” Therapy for Black Girls “Therapy for Black Girls is an online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls.” Therapy for Black Girls was created by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford . Dr. Joy is “a licensed psychologist, speaker and the host of the wildly popular mental health podcast, Therapy for Black Girls . Her work focuses on making mental health topics more relevant and accessible for Black women and she delights in using pop culture to illustrate psychological concepts.” Safely Attending Marches and Protests and Alternative Ways to Support Social Movements Alternatives to Protests if You are Not able to Participate The resources below help you think of all the roles possible in social change, including (but not limited to) participating in protests and marches. There is always a way to work in support of the movement in your daily life and community. 26 Ways to Be in the Struggle Beyond the Streets “This list is designed to celebrate all the ways that our communities can engage in liberation. For a range of reasons, there are and always have been folks who cannot attend rallies and pro- tests but who continue to contribute to ending police and state violence against black people. People seek justice and support liberation in an array of ways, yet their bodies, their spirits, and their lives may not allow them to be in the streets. We believe that we will win. And we need the presence of everyone in the movement to do so. We affirm that all contributions are political, militant, and valued.” Mapping Our Social Change Roles in Times of Crisis - Deepa Iyer “In our lives and as part of movements and organizations, many of us play different roles in pursuit of equity, shared liberation, inclusion, and justice. This framework (map and explanations ) and reflection guide are starting points to reflect on the roles we play in our social change ecosystem -whether that is a project team, an organization, a network, a neighborhood, an online community, a campus group or a movement.” General Safety Tips for Participating in Protests How to Protest Safely: What to Bring, What to Do, and What to Avoid (WIRED) Safety During Protest (Amnesty International) Tips and a Photo (below) from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez , U.S. Representative for New York's 14th congressional district. LOOK OUT FOR THINGS THAT DON’T SEEM RIGHT. There are increasing reports and investigations that white supremacists may be infiltrating these protests, breaking windows and destroying property. If anything seems off to you, DOCUMENT IT. Always check who is organizing. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS OF GRASSROOTS BLACK ORGANIZERS. They have been at this a long time and are disciplined in the ropes of community organizing and demonstration. It IS a discipline. Follow trusted leaders whose goal has been the focused pursuit of justice. If they just showed up, that’s a red flag. HAVE A BUDDY. Make sure someone is keeping an eye on you and check in on them. STAY SAFE and take care of each other. Additional Tips for Participating in Protests Know Your Rights - Protestors’ Rights (ACLU) “The First Amendment protects your right to assemble and express your views through protest. However, police and other government officials are allowed to place certain narrow restrictions on the exercise of speech rights. Make sure you’re prepared by brushing up on your rights before heading out into the streets.” How to Take Photos at Protests Safely—and Responsibly (WIRED) “Whether you’re using a smartphone or a DSLR, documenting a protest with photos and video can be an important part of telling the story of what happened and when. But those photos can also be used to harm you or your fellow protesters. Here are some steps you should take to keep yourself and others safe.” Mental Health Services Protest Safety

Financial Aid, Scholarships, & Loans Paying for College Presentation View This presentation covers the different ways that you will be able to cover the cost of college so that you can plan ahead. We suggest looking over this presentation with your family so you all have an understanding of how to prepare for the expenses of a college education! Financial Aid Resources Handout View This handout accompanies the "Paying for College" presentation and provides a list of helpful resources in understanding and preparing for the college financial aid process. Scholarship Tracking Worksheet View This spreadsheet is part of the "Paying for College" materials that should help you keep track of any scholarships that you apply to when trying to fund your college education. College Loan Tracker View If you will need loans to attend college, this tracker will help you stay aware of loan requirements and deadlines so you can eventually pay them off as quickly and correctly as possible. College Loan Tracker Walkthrough Video View No sure where to start with the Student Loan Tracker? LEAP's former Counselor Development Intern Durel Crosby explains how to use it in this brief video!

Independent Reading-Resources 7 Independent reading activities to increase literacy Scholastic-teaching content Reading Rockets- 103 things to do during or after reading Epic- Log in DEAR Time/Literacy Ideas Ways to access books Google LEAP Website (virtual books) NHFPL www.freechildrenstories.com Audiobooks Youtube National Geographic Website Counselor record themselves reading books for kids EPIC New Haven Reads you can tape yourself on screencastify so students can have bedtime stories or whenever they choose to hear stories Fun ways to ensure they are reading Read the same book (Reciprocal teaching strategies) Questioning (favorite part, characters) Draw out their favorite part of the story and share Popcorn Reading Vocab Word Games Vocab Activities based on text Book Talk- Share their book (Persuade other kids to read the book) Make a flipgrid about your book Write about book - Make real world connections Literature Circles Bookclubs Write an alternative ending to the book Comparing and contrasting books and movies Counselors read too!!! Breakout rooms

Professional Skills Resources Resume Workshop Handout View As you prepare to apply for internships or jobs, use this resource to develop and strengthen your resume so you are putting your skills front and center. Cover Letter Workshop Handout View Cover letters are one of the ways you can show an employer the detail in your skills and interest, so use this resource to learn the basics of preparing a strong cover letter for every application. Professional Communications Workshop Handout View Every organization, company and work environment uses various means of communication. This handout will break down the types of communication you can expect when entering a workplace and how to be effective in speaking to your potential employer, colleagues and supervisors.

Curriculum and Resources for Teaching Children and Teens about Anti-Racism and Social Movements Reflecting on George Floyd’s Death and Police Violence Towards Black Americans (Facing History and Ourselves) This guide from Facing History and Ourselves offers specific tips, materials and conversation starters for you and your students regarding George Floyd’s death and recent protests in response to it. This is an important resource, especially for educators and leaders who have not engaged in these conversations with students in the past. For more teaching guides, resources and advice on discussing the difficult history of racism to students, check out Facing History and Ourselves and their array of materials and events. The 1619 Project Curriculum “The 1619 Project, inaugurated with a special issue of The New York Times Magazine, challenges us to reframe U.S. history by marking the year when the first enslaved Africans arrived on Virginia soil as our nation's foundational date. Here you will find reading guides, activities, and other resources to bring The 1619 Project into your classroom.” Teaching About Race, Racism and Police Violence (Teaching Tolerance) This is a collection of educational materials, lesson plans and multimedia resources for educators to use when teaching their students on the broader and interconnected topics of race, racism and police violence. For more lesson plans and discussion guides on these topics, check out Teaching Tolerance ’s website, as well as the work done by the larger organization they are a part of, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) . Talking About Race Web Portal (National Museum of African American History and Culture) “The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture today launched Talking About Race, a new online portal designed to help individuals, families, and communities talk about racism, racial identity and the way these forces shape every aspect of society, from the economy and politics to the broader American culture. The online portal provides digital tools, online exercises, video instructions, scholarly articles and more than 100 multi-media resources tailored for educators, parents and caregivers—and individuals committed to racial equality.” Educator’s Guide for Reading Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Dr. Ibram X. Kendi “This guide suggests a month-long approach to reading and discussing Stamped with middle-school and high-school readers in English, English Language Arts, Social Stud-ies, History, and Humanities classrooms.”

Check out our recent LEAP newsletters. Newsletter Archive Summer 2021 Spring 2021 Fall 2021 Summer 2020 Summer 2019 Summer 2018 Summer 2017 Spring 2020 Spring 2019 Spring 2018 Spring 2017 Fall 2020 Fall 2019 Fall 2018 Fall 2017

LEAP is committed to having significant impact on all of the young people we serve. Learn how here. LEAP's Impact LEAP provides academic support, social enrichment, and leadership development to more than 1,000 youth each year. Using our unique mentoring model, LEAP empowers high school and college students, giving them the training, education, and resources they need to work as counselors for younger children. With their counselors’ support, these children engage in literacy activities and learn to swim, code, camp, dance, garden and much more — all free of charge. Leap by the Numbers 1,202 Children in LEAP's Afterschool and Summer Programs 6 Neighborhood Based Sites 150 Young Teens as LEAP Leaders in Training 19 Books Read on Average per LEAPer during the Summer 211 Young People Employed and Trained at LEAP Annual Reports See our annual reports for information about LEAP's yearly statistics and a performance overview! Testimonials See our testimonials for student and counselor feedback on their experience in LEAP! How Can I Make an Impact? By Mail Make checks out to "LEAP" and send to: 31 Jefferson Street New Haven, CT 06511 Online Make a tax deductible donation‏. Click to Give Over the Phone It's easy to donate offline too. Tel: 203-773-0770

LEAP Year Event 31 Years & Counting Watch the 2026 LEAP Year Event Reception Livestream below! Click here to watch. See you tonight at the 31st Annual LEAP Year Event Despite the recent winter weather, the event will proceed as scheduled. We look forward to welcoming you and celebrating together. RECEPTION TICKETS LEAP Year Event is our annual fundraiser bringing together the Greater New Haven community to support LEAP's free after-school and summer programs for youth from underserved neighborhoods. Join us on Thursday, February 26, 2026 , with additional dates on February 28th and March 5th. The evening begins with a vibrant reception at the Dixwell Community Center (Q House), featuring complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres, live music, and an opportunity to connect with fellow community members . You'll hear welcoming remarks from Henry Fernandez, LEAP's Executive Director, and inspiring stories directly from LEAP counselors. Following the reception, guests will attend an intimate dinner of their choice, each featuring a renowned guest speaker and meaningful conversation. LEAP Year Event is our most important fundraiser, drawing over 600 philanthropic donors, business professionals, and community leaders. In 2025, you helped us raise over $500,000 to make LEAP's free programs possible. We hope you'll join us again for an evening of community, connection, and shared commitment to creating opportunities for young people. Interested in supporting the event as a sponsor or have questions about registering? Please email Alison Bonds at abonds@leapforkids.org . With your partnership, we will continue to create a New Haven for Our Children. LEAP Year Event '25 Photos Thank you to our 2026 LEAP Year Event Sponsors Superhero Champions with David Moulton Roger Ibbotson Heroes Roz & Jerry Meyer Julie Wilson Joann Thompson & Robert Alvine Leader The Scillia Family Stacey & Hap Perkins with Carol Sirot Mentors Dr. Marcus McFerren Jacqueline Koral Henry Lord Dick and Marissa Ferguson Educator Cynthia Mann, MD Marna Borgstrom & Eric Borgstrom Diane Ariker Athlete Jody Ellant with Dorothy Robinson Charles and Dinny Wakerley Beverly Hodgson & John Leventhal Ruby Melton & Gail McAvay Ellen Shuman & Doug Rae Beverly & John Hodgson Celeste Suggs & Joel Zackin Kaaren Janssen & Robert Jaeger Elizabeth & Miles Lasater Dorothy Robinson Ann Calabresi Partners With... Waterbury Building Trades Council Alison Bonds & Larry Levine John S. Nussbaum Allie Perry & Charles Pillsbury Jason & Christina Price Bonnie Becker & John Krystal Katherine McKenzie & Kraig Crews Sue McDonald & Corey Stone Terry and Carl Porto Friends The Foundation And The Health Center With & Kenneth Boroson Architects LLC Helen Kauder and Barry Nalebuff Lisa Stanger & Greg Colodner Constance Clement Joseph & Myra Zelson Kathryn Hill & Gerald Kahn Ellen & Robert Scalettar Lynne & Mark Schpero Marian Chertow & Matthew Nemerson Neighbors Apex Security Systems, LLC Wayne Card Mary Jane Burt JOIN US AS A SPONSOR! To Learn More About What Sponsorships We Offer Click Here Thank you to our LEAP Year Event Planning Committee Eliana Arroyo Ann Baker Pepe Alison L. Bonds Rachel Kline Brown Ruofan Chen Jack Ciccolo Judy Clark Susan Kerley Jacqueline Koral Melissa Liriano Cynthia Mann Zehra Patwa Fallon Thomas

Scholastic at Home Watch and Learn BookFlix Khan Academy ELA (English Language Arts) Reading Comprehension Reading Rockets - Includes Special Education and ELA https://www.readingrockets.org/literacyapps https://www.readingrockets.org/article/reading-adventure-pack-where-wild-things-are https://www.readingrockets.org/content/pdfs/literacybags/wildthings_09.pdf https://www.readingrockets.org/article/reading-adventure-pack-food https://www.readingrockets.org/content/pdfs/literacybags/food_08.pdf https://www.readingrockets.org/article/reading-adventure-pack-whats-next-very-hungry-caterpillar https://www.readingrockets.org/content/pdfs/literacybags/Caterpillar_English.pdf https://www.readingrockets.org/article/25-activities-reading-and-writing-fun#grade https://www.readingrockets.org/article/six-games-reading Read Write Think Newsela Unite For Literacy - more than 30 languages. Includes Special Education and ELA Children’s books read aloud Happy Cultivated ( a Youtube Channell that focuses on literacy) Where the wild things are Where are the night animals Where does food come from The very hungry caterpillar I am a Caterpillar