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. Save the Date: LEAP Year Event 2026 - Thursday, February 26 Become a Sponsor Today SIGN UP L eadership E ducation & A thletics in P artnership CREATING A NEW HAVEN FOR OUR CHILDREN We teach children how to learn and young adults how to lead. LEAP was founded in 1992 by educators, students, and community activists to address the historic disinvestment in young people of color in our city. In our two community centers and seven neighborhood-based sites, we provide children with a welcoming place to learn, explore and grow, while offering teens and young adults a platform to find their voice and become leaders and role models. College and high school student counselors teach younger students in literacy, the arts, and athletics. 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 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! Join Us As a Sponsor For the 2026 LEAP Year Event! Join us for LEAP Year Event on Thursday, February 26, 2026! This annual fundraiser brings together 500+ donors, business professionals, and community leaders for an evening of connection and impact. Last year, we raised over $500,000 to support LEAP's free after-school and summer programs. The evening features a lively reception at the Dixwell Community Center (Q House) with complimentary drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and live music, followed by intimate dinners with renowned guest speakers. Sponsorship opportunities are now available. Your support makes LEAP's programs possible for youth from underserved New Haven neighborhoods. Email Alison Bonds at abonds@leapforkids.org to learn more about sponsorship levels and benefits, or to register for the event. Registration for our Spring Component is now Open! Give your child an incredible spring at LEAP! Our free after-school program provides elementary and middle school students with a safe, supportive space to learn, play, and grow. Through near-peer mentorship from local high school and college counselors, kids enjoy homework help, athletics, creative activities, and leadership development—all in their own neighborhood. Our spring component runs 1/26/26 - 5/7/26. Spots are filling up fast at our seven New Haven sites! Register your child today by clicking 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

LEAP Year Event 31 Years & Counting See you at this year's LEAP Year Event! Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026 Location: Dixwell Community Q House JOIN US AS A SPONSOR! There are many roles that make the LEAP Year Event possible each year. We would love for you to join in any capacity you feel comfortable. Sponsor: Looking to support a great cause while getting unmatched publicity with prominent business leaders and community members in the New Haven area? Become a Sponsor at one of the many levels available, from Neighbor (contributing $500) to Superhero (contributing $50,000). Your name and logo will be shared in multiple print and digital materials, which are distributed to our database of over 5,000 people. Click here for a more detailed description of the sponsor levels and benefits. Attendee: Join the event by purchasing tickets to the conversation of your choosing. Have a wonderful evening knowing that you are supporting an amazing cause. Dinner Host: If you're interested in hosting a conversation in your home or at a local restaurant, please contact Alison Bonds at abonds@leapforkids.org. Hosts generously cover the cost of food and drinks for approximately 20 guests as a contribution to LEAP. Interested in any of these roles? Contact Alison Bonds, LEAP Year Event Coordinator, at abonds@leapforkids.org or by phone at 203-767-7413. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we raised over $500,000 for LEAP's free youth programs last year! Your support will make a real difference in the lives of New Haven's young people, allowing LEAP to continue providing free, high-quality educational programs and opportunities. We are deeply grateful for your belief in LEAP's mission and your commitment to empowering New Haven youth. We hope to see you at this year's LEAP Year Event! LEAP Year Event '25 Photos 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 to be announced. 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 500 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. 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 Mentors Jacqueline Koral Dr. Marcus McFerren & Educator Cynthia Mann, MD Marna Borgstrom & Eric Borgstrom Diane Ariker Athlete Jody Ellant with Ruby Melton & Gail McAvay Ellen Shuman & Doug Rae Beverly & John Hodgson Celeste Suggs & Joel Zackin Elizabeth & Miles Lasater Partners Alison Bonds & Larry Levine John S. Nussbaum Allie Perry & Charles Pillsbury Friends Lisa Stanger & Greg Colodner Kathryn Hill & Gerald Kahn Ellen & Robert Scalettar Neighbors Apex Security Systems, LLC 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

Learn about LEAP's programs for children and young teens both after school and summer. Fill out an application for your the afterschool program, summer program, or the Leaders In Training program. Programs Overview Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) was founded in 1992 by educators, students, and community activists to address the historic disinvestment in young people of color in our city. In our two community centers and seven neighborhood-based sites, we provide children with a welcoming place to learn, explore and grow, while offering teens and young adults a platform to find their voice and become leaders and role models. Afterschool Children's Program What Homework assistance, extra reading, activities including athletics, arts, computer science, cooking, and gardening. When + Where The program operates after school Monday-Thursday from 3 pm - 6 pm. LEAP operates in 8 neighborhoods. Who This is for children ages 7-12 who live in one of our 8 neighborhoods. Summer Children's Program What Literacy, athletics, arts, computer science, cooking, and gardening + field trips around New Haven. When + Where The program operates after school Monday-Thursday from 8:30 am - 4 pm, Friday from 8:30 - 1pm. LEAP operates in 8 neighborhoods. Who This is for children ages 7-12 who live in one of our 8 neighborhoods. Leaders in Training Program What Participate in unique programming just for teens and intern with counselors working with younger children When + Where Afterschool: Mon-Thurs 3pm - 7pm Summer: Mon-Thurs from 8:30 am - 4 pm, Friday from 8:30 - 1pm Who This is for teens aged 13-15 who come from any neighborhood. They will receive a stipend. Swimming Program Who Children, teens, adults, families, and aspiring lifeguards/instructors What Community swim lessons & water safety When Offered year-round in scheduled multi-week sessions Where LEAP pool at 31 Jefferson St., New Haven, CT Register Here! Make LEAP Children a Part of your Legacy! DONATE

Learn about LEAP's swimming programs and complete an application for a child or adult lesson. L eadership, E ducation & A thletics in P artnership Decemebr 23, 2025 the leap pool is closed tody Decemebr 23, 2025 the leap pool is closed tody Decemebr 23, 2025 the leap pool is closed tody Decemebr 23, 2025 the leap pool is closed tody Next Registration Period: June 16th, 2025 Next Session START Date: June 30th, 2025 Next Session END Date: August 1st, 2025 LEAP Pool is Open Today, January 8, 2026 Today’s Pool Temperature is 85°F Swimming Lessons Community Swim Schedule (2026) Community Swim Winter Session 2: Session Dates: February 9 – March 16, 2026 Registration Period: January 26, 2026 - February 6, 2026 Community Swim Spring Session 1: Session Dates: March 30 – May 1, 2026 Registration Period: March 16, 2026 - March 27, 2026 Community Swim Spring Session 2: Session Dates: May 18 – June 22, 2026 Registration Period: May 4, 2026 - May 15, 2026 Community Swim Summer Session 1: Session Dates: August 3 – September 4, 2026 Registration Period: July 13, 2026 - July 31, 2026 Community Swim Fall Session 1: Session Dates: September 21 – October 26, 2026 Registration Deadline: September 7, 2026 - September 18, 2026 Community Swim Fall Session 2: Session Dates: November 9 – December 18, 2026 Registration Deadline: October 26, 2026 - November 6, 2026 *Schedule subject to change CLICK HERE TO REGISTER LEAP offers swim lessons for children, teens, and adults at all skill levels—whether you’re just starting out or already know the basics and want to build confidence, refine technique, and improve your swimming skills in a supportive, inclusive environment. what Classes run in 5-week sessions, twice weekly for 45 mins. Youth L1 & L3 Mon/Wed; L2 & L4 Tue/Thu (5–5:45 & 6–6:45 pm). Teens/adults L1–2 Mon/Wed; L3+ Tue/Thu (7–7:45 pm). Seniors Fri 5 pm; Toddlers 6 pm; Family Swim (3 max) 7 pm at LEAP, 31 Jefferson St., New Haven. when & where who LEAP Aquatics is an inclusive, community swim program offering classes for families, youth, teens, and adults. Rooted in equity, we provide safe, welcoming access to water skills, confidence, and belonging for all. Cost The 5-week program (10 classes) costs $45 for toddlers/seniors, $80 for youth, $100 for adults/teens, paid online in advance. No refunds; credit can be applied to future lessons. If LEAP closes, make-up classes will be scheduled. Thank you to our Aquatics Program Grantors! LEAP is a proud grantee of USA Swimming Foundation's Learn to Swim program. C lick on their logo to learn more.

Please select the correct class, quantity, participant/guardian info, dates, and age, and complete all * fields. No refunds, but credit can be used for future lessons. LEVEL 2 ADULTS & TEENS FAMILIES & TODDLERS LEVEL 4 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 1

Learn about and complete an application for LEAP's summer program for children ages 7 to 12. Summer Children's Program Please note that this page reflects information from our 2025 Summer Program. Check back for updates on our 2026 Summer Program! LEAP's summer program includes literacy, athletics, arts, computer science, cooking, and gardening. Children also go on field trips around New Haven and camping trips. All programs are overseen by an experienced Site Coordinator with trained counselor pairs drawn from local colleges and high schools. LEAP's summer program is free for participants. what who LEAP's summer children's program is available for children ages 7 to 12 who live in one of our five neighborhoods (what matters is where the child lives, not where he or she goes to school): Dixwell Newhallville Fair Haven The Hill Dwight-Kensington (including West River) Quinnipiac Meadows The program operates Monday-Thursday from 8 AM-4 PM, Friday from 8 AM-1 PM. LEAP operates in seven neighborhoods at these locations: Bishop Woods School Augusta Lewis Troup School Clemente Leadership Academy Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration Clinton Avenue School King-Robinson Inter-District Magnet School Celentano Magnet School & Q House when & where Summer Program 2025 Mandatory parent meeting dates will occur in June for accepted families only. The time and location will be disclosed to accepted parents. Required summer documents for full acceptance into LEAP's Program: 1. Completed Child Application (you can now add more than one child to one application) 2. Copy of child's physical (not older than 36 months) 3. Copy of child's insurance card or copy of insurance letter confirming child is covered by insurance. Dates of Summer Programming: June 23rd - August 1st, 2025 Mondays - Thursdays: 8 AM- 4 PM; Fridays; 8 AM - 1 PM Submitting an application through the portal does not mean that your child has been accepted into the program. Pre-acceptance into the program will be confirmed via phone call by one of our Site Coordinators within seventy-two hours of portal submission. Please note that you will not be enrolled in the program until you submit a fully signed physical examination document. If your child has asthma and needs an inhaler or allergies that require the use of an EpiPen, you will need to request for your doctor to fill up and sign an action plan. *Application does not automatically save. When you complete the form, you must press SUBMIT FORM at the end. If you refresh or leave this page, any entered information will be lost.* Ver en español/Read in Spanish

LEAP staff members are committed to children, experienced in youth programming, and diverse. Meet our Staff Executive Leadership Henry Fernandez Executive Director hfernandez@leapforkids.org Children's & Youth Development Programs Team Yakeita Robinson VP & Chief of Staff yrobinson@leapforkids.org Stefanie Vargas Director of Programs svargas@leapforkids.org Tina Sapiente Director of Operations tsapiente@leapforkids.org Chantalle Martin Clinical Programs Manager cmartin@leapforkids.org Tamia Scott Dwight-Kensington Site Coordinator tscott@leapforkids.org Jahvon Soto Fair Haven South Site Coordinator jsoto@leapforkids.org Nikilia Reid VP of Programs nreid@leapforkids.org Darcus Henry Dixwell Site Coordinator dhenry@leapforkids.org Emiya Pearse Hill South Site Coordinator epearse@leapforkids.org Alyssa Parrott Quinnipiac Meadows Site Coordinator aparrott@leapforkids.org Elvert Eden Aquatics Manager eeden@leapforkids.org Leadership & Learning Team Summer Choate-Lewis VP of Leadership & Learning schoate@leapforkids.org Kayla Penza Learning Manager kpenza@leapforkids.org Counselor Leadership Team Maithé Ulloa Counselor Leadership Manager mulloa@leapforkids.org Jadah Smith Counselor Development Coordinator jsmith@leapforkids.org Alexis Christy Academic Success Coordinator achristy@leapforkids.org Development & Communications Team Rachel Kline Brown VP of Development & Communications rklinebrown@leapforkids.org Jubetsy Minaya-Pérez Director of Development & Communications jminaya@leapforkids.org Ruofan Chen Donor Database Analyst & Prospect Researcher rchen@leapforkids.org Eliana Arroyo Donor Relations & Events Manager earroyo@leapforkids.org Melissa Liriano Communications Coordinator mliriano@leapforkids.org Finance & Business Affairs Team Shadine Alveranga VP of Finance & Business Affairs salveranga@leapforkids.org DJenny Pope Payroll Coordinator dpope@leapforkids.org Q House Team Yakeita Robinson VP & Chief of Staff yrobinson@leapforkids.org Crystal Fernández Manager of the Dixwell Community Q House cfernandez@leapforkids.org Kaussar Rahman Executive Advisor and Assistant for the Dixwell Community Q House Advisory Board and LEAP Grants Manager krahman@leapforkids.org Office Operations Team Marvin Parker Building Management Coordinator mparker@leapforkids.org Robin Williams Reception Coordinator rwilliams@leapforkids.org

Check out LEAP's newsletters and recent news pieces on our work with young people and the community. The Latest LEAP News Newsletter Archive Press Archive Photo Archive In the Press New Haven Independent | 3.1.21 LEAP Celebrates with First-Ever Virtual Fundraiser New Haven Independent | 1.29.21 LEAP's Famous Fundraiser Goes Virtual Comcast Newsmakers | 12.14.20 Academic and Social Enrichment with Henry Fernandez of LEAP for Kids WTNH | 9.15.20 New Haven LEAP program continues helping at-risk kids with schooling during pandemic Arts Council of NH | 7.23.20 LEAPers Reimagine Dixwell Avenue Newsletters Summer 2020 Fall/Winter 2020 Spring 2020 Summer 2019 In the Press New Haven Independent | 11.26.25 LEAP, Peabody Team Up For “Night At The Museum” New Haven Register | 11.21.25 New Haven's 'Golden Swimmers' embracing swim, water aerobics after age 55 New Haven Independent | 11.17.25 Rose & Blanca Learn To Swim The Arts Paper | 10.27.25 Braving Federal Funding Cuts, LEAP Leaps Into Halloween New Haven Independent | 10.22.25 City To Grow Swim Program For Seniors NBC CT | 9.22.25 New Haven's Barack Obama Magnet school to receive state funding for afterschool WTNH News8 | 7.30.25 About 900 New Haven-area kids learn to swim with LEAP New Haven Register | 7.28.25 New Haven hopes to buy old UI 'English Station' island, build 'Mill River Park' New Haven Independent | 7.28.25 City Eyes English Station Transformation New Haven Independent | 7.28.25 Tutors & Tutees Celebrate Progress WTNH News8 | 7.25.25 New Haven Tutoring Initiative celebrates success of summer camp programs Fox61 | 7.25.25 New Haven Tutoring Initiatives hosts field day to celebrate its success Yale Peabody Museum | 7.24.25 Healing outdoors Over 900 New Haven youths have a special summer experience at Camp Cedarcrest New Haven Independent | 7.14.25 Teen Helps LEAP Secure Elevator Approval WTNH News8 | 7.11.25 Read-In on the Green supports summer literacy, community The Arts Paper | 7.11.25 Future Bookworms LEAP Into The Power Of Kindness New Haven Independent | 7.9.25 Kids LEAP Into Pool, In Fair Haven New Haven Independent | 7.3.25 Kids LEAP Into Pools New Haven Independent | 5.20.25 Now Hiring: Lifeguards, Swim Instructors New Haven Independent | 5.7.25 181 Run, Walk For A Cause Thru Edgewood Park New Haven Independent | 4.25.25 Julia’s Run Returns To Edgewood Park New Haven Independent | 3.7.25 LEAP Year Raises $500K Nyberg on WTNH News8 | 2.14.25 Nyberg: LEAP New Haven celebrates 30th anniversary LoveBabz LoveTalk with Babz Rawls-Ivy 103.5 WNHH | 2.7.25 LEAP, Henry Fernandez (The 30th Annual LEAP Year Event) WSFB Channel 3 | 1.29.25 Hello Connecticut chats with LEAP! New Haven Independent | 1.29.25 LEAP Year Turns 30 The Arts Paper | 11.27.24 LEAP Takes A Pause To Be Thankful WTNH News8 | 11.16.24 The New Haven Tutoring Initiative takes learning from the classroom to the community Yale Daily News | 11.08.24 LEAP wins $2 million grant from MacKenzie Scott New Haven Independent | 10.31.24 Spooooky Fun At Q House Halloween Fest New Haven Independent | 7.29.24 Campers Dribble, Shoot, Score! At The Q WTNH News 8 | 7.19.24 LEAP’s Read-In on the Green connects kids and community leaders The Arts Paper | 7.19.24 Young Readers Rejoice With A Book Or Two Of Joy New Haven Independent | 7.19.24 Hundreds Fill The Green … To Read! New Haven Independent | 6.28.24 LEAP’s Pool To Open This Summer, Too WNPR - CT Public Radio | 6.26.24 Diving into the state of swim access in CT WFSB Channel 3 | 4.23.24 After school counselors help New Haven students reach highest potential New Haven Independent | 4.18.24 LEAP Students Hit The Road Yale News | 4.09.24 Awards celebrate those strengthening bonds between Yale and city New Haven Independent | 3.21.24 Billionaire Gives LEAP $2M Fox61 | 3.20.24 4 Connecticut non-profits each get $2M in latest round of donations from MacKenzie Scott WFSB Channel 3 | 3.20.24 New Haven based non-profit gets recognized for its work with kids WTNH News 8 | 3.20.24 MacKenzie Scott donates $2M to Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. in New Haven WTNH News 8 | 3.19.24 MacKenzie Scott donates $2M each to 4 Connecticut nonprofits WTNH News 8 | 3.19.24 Nyberg: New Haven organization offers help to youth The Arts Paper | 3.19.24 Deltas Recognize Five For Their 'Lighthouse Effect' New Haven Independent | 3.12.24 LEAP Raises $450k For Underserved Kids LoveBabz LoveTalk with Babz Rawls-Ivy 103.5 WNHH | 2.23.24 LEAP (29th Annual Leap Year Event) New Haven Independent | 1.30.24 29th Annual LEAP Year Event Approaches The Arts Paper | 11.22.23 A Night of Gratitude: Celebrating the LEAP Community With Thankful Dinners WFSB | 11.4.23 Book giveaway held to improve literacy skills in New Haven Newsletters Summer 2025 Spring 2025 Fall/Winter 2025 Summer 2024 Spring 2024 Fall/Winter 2024 Want to dive deeper into LEAP's history? Check out our Newsletter, Press and Photo Archives! Newsletter Archive Press Archive Photo Archive

Learn about and apply for the afterschool program for kids ages 7 to 12. Afterschool Children's Program LEAP's afterschool program combines homework assistance with extra reading and activities, including athletics, arts, computer science, cooking, and gardening. All programs are overseen by an experienced site coordinator with trained counselor pairs drawn from local colleges and high schools. LEAP's afterschool program is free for participants. what who LEAP's afterschool program is available for children ages 7 to 12 who live in one of our five neighborhoods (what matters is where the child lives, not where he or she goes to school): Dixwell Fair Haven The Hill Dwight-Kensington (including West River) Quinnipiac Meadows The program operates after school Monday-Thursday from 3 pm - 6 pm. LEAP operates in five neighborhoods at these local sites (find more info below): Dixwell Fair Haven North Fair Haven South Hill South Dwight-Kensington Quinnipiac Meadows when & where Apply for our Spring 2026 Program Here! Application in English Aplicación en Español 2026 Spring Component Information Our in-person programs will include: LEAP groups will meet in schools and community spaces to complete homework, engage in literacy activities, and have fun projects including arts, sports, dance, computer learning, and community walks. Start Date and Times: The program will begin Monday, January 26th, and will end Thursday, May 7th. It will run from 3pm to 6pm Mondays through Thursdays. If your child is not feeling well or someone in your house has COVID-19 symptoms, please keep your child home. If there is someone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 in your household (for instance a senior citizen or someone whose immune system is compromised), then it may not make sense for your child to participate in our in-person program. If you wish to apply to LEAP's afterschool at King Robinson School, please click here. Important LEAP Dates and Closures for Children’s Programming Spring 2026 ●January 26th- First Day of Spring Leap Programming ● February 4th - No LEAP (Report Card Night) ● February 16th and 17th - NO LEAP (February Recess) ● February 26th- No LEAP (LEAP Fundraiser) ● March 18th - No LEAP (Early Dismissal) ● April 13th-16th- No LEAP (April Recess) ● May 7th - Last Day of Spring LEAP Programming Dixwell Site Coordinator: Darcus Henry Jr. School Operating Site: Wexler-Grant School Fair Haven North Interim Site Coordinator: Yarimarie Robles School Operating Site: Clinton Avenue School Fair Haven South Site Coordinator: Jahvon Soto School Operating Site: Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration Hill South Site Coordinator: Emiya Pearse School Operating Site: Roberto Clemente Leadership Academy Dwight-Kensington Site Coordinator: Tamia Scott School Operating: Augusta -Lewis Troup School Quinnipiac Meadows Site Coordinator: Alyssa Parrott School Operating Site: Ross Woodward School Site Information Check out our some of our other programs!

LEAP provides academic and social development programming to young children and teens using a unique model where college and high school students are trained and employed to be mentors and tutors to younger New Haveners. About Us Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) was founded in 1992 by educators, students, and community activists to address the historic disinvestment in young people of color in our city. Then and now LEAP believes that young people have the intellect, enthusiasm, courage, and leadership potential to make real change. LEAP creates the space and marshals the resources so that young leaders can mentor, educate and care for the children of New Haven. Our mission is to develop the strengths and talents of young leaders who create and implement year-round, neighborhood-based programs designed to achieve positive outcomes for children living in neighborhoods that have historically experienced systemic disinvestment. Who We Are Our Vision In our two community centers and seven neighborhood-based sites, we provide children with a welcoming place to learn, explore and grow, while offering teens and young adults a platform to find their voice and become leaders and role models. Since our founding, LEAP has grown to become a trusted community institution serving and empowering over 1,500 local young people annually. Our Challenge College and high school student counselors provide LEAP’s direct services to younger children. Their work is not easy as the systemic challenges faced by LEAP families are significant: The neighborhoods served by LEAP have child poverty rates ranging from 35% to 58%, more than three times the Connecticut average of 15%. This is why LEAP prides itself on employing over 200 young people and supporting their efforts to graduate high school and get into and graduate from college. We count among our alumni school teachers and principals, nonprofit executives, elected officials, business leaders, and community organizers. Age Groups See our Programs! Multi-Tier Mentorship Model LEAP values the opportunity for young people to grow within our organization, progressively taking on increased responsibility and leadership. Youth are organized into four age groups: Children (ages 7-12), Leaders in Training (ages 13-15), Junior Counselors (high school students), and Senior Counselors (college students). LEAP programming is tailored toward each child’s stage in development. For example, Leaders-in-Training start to take on new responsibilities by interning under counselors. Junior Counselors participate in extensive college prep and career advising to prepare them for high school graduation. Our success is reflected in our high retention rate. Fully one third of our counselors participated in LEAP themselves as children. Work for LEAP! Community and School Centric We serve children who live in five low-income and historically African American and Latino neighborhoods in New Haven: Dixwell, Dwight-Kensington, Fair Haven, the Hill, and Newhallville. LEAP runs our free afterschool and summer programming at New Haven Public Schools located in these communities, as well as at our community center in Wooster Square. In our programs, LEAP seeks to make the entire city available to young people, from library cards and free bus passes to long-term partnerships with the city’s cultural institutions and recreational organizations. Young people at LEAP learn in neighborhood community gardens, hear from guest speakers born and raised in New Haven, read on the New Haven Green, and apply critical thinking and creativity to reimagine a future for their communities. Read our Impact! Year-Round Programming LEAP runs year-round and is split into three components: fall after-school, spring after-school, and summer camp. Our after-school program is three hours a day, Monday-Thursday. Our summer camp is eight hours a day, Monday-Friday. Some stay for several years, moving up through our age groups. LEAP kids love spending time at LEAP's Roslyn Milstein Meyer Community Center, home to our library, swimming pool, computer lab, teaching kitchen, gym, dance studio, and community garden. Join a Program! City's Largest Youth Employer LEAP counselors are trained and paid to do the important and often hard work of mentoring, supervising, and guiding children. LEAP is the largest employer of youth in New Haven: we train and hire over 200 young adults each year. A job at LEAP includes professional development for the future with sessions on resume writing, financial literacy, applying to college, SAT preparation and much more. Employing youth after school and over the summer is proven by research to be highly effective in creating bridges to academic success while making neighborhoods safer for children and teens. Read Testimonials! Make LEAP Children a Part of your Legacy! DONATE

LEAP's lifeguards and swim instructors teach children to swim and keep our pool area safe. Learn more and find an application here. Lifeguard & Swim Instructors Do you love being in the water? Are you seeking a fulfilling way to give back to your community? Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just starting, LEAP is looking for you! We are currently hiring Swim Instructors and Lifeguards for our summer, after-school, and evening programs. We welcome high school and college students to apply—no prior certification required . No problem. We provide comprehensive training to help you become certified and ready to lead. At LEAP , swimming is more than just a sport—it’s a vital life skill. As part of our team, you’ll help make swimming fun, empowering, and accessible for everyone in our community. What you’ll do: Teach & Inspire: Help kids, teens, and adults master water safety and swimming techniques. Build Confidence: Watch your students grow from hesitant beginners to confident swimmers. Be a Leader: Work in an energetic environment with flexible shifts that fit your school schedule. Skills you’ll gain: Water Safety Expertise: Master the fundamentals of aquatic safety and rescue. Communication: Learn how to coach and connect with people of all ages. Critical Thinking: Develop the ability to stay observant and react quickly in a fast-paced environment. How to Apply Ready to jump in? Getting started is easy: Get the Application: Download it at www.leapforkids.org or pick up a physical copy at the LEAP Office. Submit Your Form: Drop off your completed application in person or email it directly to eeden@leapforkids.org . Make a splash this year! Join LEAP Aquatics to grow your own skills while helping others do the same! Apply to become a Lifeguard or Swim Instructor LEAP Swim Instructors and Lifeguards are high school or college students who want to help to save lives by teaching swimming to youth and adults. They should be strong swimmers or want to become strong swimmers. LEAP will provide the training needed to become certified swim instructors and lifeguards. You can download this application or you can pick up an application at the office. Please download and fill out the PDF below, and email to jobs@leapforkids.org . Apply for this Position Here! Lifeguard & Swim Instructor Application About the Position At LEAP, we teach youth to swim and be safe in the pool using a 5-level swimming curriculum. Children, teens and adults all take swimming lessons at LEAP. LEAP’s summer and after-school programs include swimming lessons as part of the curriculum. LEAP also offers community members low-cost swim classes in the evenings. If you are a good swimmer, want to promote swimming safety and help to save lives, then this job could be for you. In this role, you will need to have strong observation skills, the ability to communicate clearly with other LEAP lifeguards and swim instructors, and to react quickly in emergencies. You need to have at least basic swimming skills and the interest in learning to become a strong swimmer. Want to sign up for swim classes instead? See our Programs

Check out articles on LEAP through the years. Press Archive For the Latest News, check out our News page here ! 20 22 100s Turn Out for the Nutcracker at the Q December 6 2022 | New Haven Independent LEAP holds 'thankful dinner' for New Haven children November 22 2022 | WTNH News 8 New Haveners Celebrate the Spookiest Night of the Year November 2 2022 | Yale Daily News Q House Halloween Lets Kids Be Kids October 31 2022 | New Haven Independent What's Right With Schools: New Haven students continued learning over the summer September 6 2022 | WTNH News 8 New Haven High School Grads LEAP Forward July 25 2022 | New Haven Independent Read-In LEAPs Into Summer on the Green July 18 2022 | The New Haven Arts Paper LEAP Reading event held on the New Haven Green for kids July 15 2022 | WTNH News 8 LEAP Read-In Combats Summer Slide July 15 2022 | New Haven Independent LEAP Exec. shares info on Annual Read-In Event July 14 2022 | WTNH News 8 Biden Administration Visits New Haven's Progress on Building More Equitable Access to Healthy Foods July 8 2022 | WSHU Public Radio Q House Farmers Market Launches, With New Mac & Cheese Twist June 23 2022 | New Haven Independent $194K Seed Planted in Dixwell Food Desert June 20 2022 | New Haven Independent New Farmers Market Coming to New Haven to Help Feed City Residents June 20 2022 | WTNH News 8 27th LEAP Year Dinners Raise $320K For Youth March 7 2022 | New Haven Independent Dream House February 16 2022 | Daily Nutmeg LoveBabz LoveTalk with Henry Fernandez February 10 2022 | LoveBabz LoveTalk with Babz Rawls-Ivy LEAP Leaps into Quinnipiac Meadows February 3 2022 | New Haven Independent "LEAP Year" Dinner-Convos Loom, Some In Person, Some Zoomed February 2 2022 | New Haven Independent 2021 27th LEAP Year Dinners Raise $320K For Youth March 7 2021 | New Haven Independent Hopes High As New Q House Ribbon Cut November 6 2021 | New Haven Independent New Haven's All-New Q House Set to Debut October 29 2021 | New Haven Register New Haven's Iconic Q House to Return After Nearly 20 Years October 22 2021 | NBC Conneticut As Opening Nears, Q House Qs Answered October 22 2021 | New Haven Independent Rally Readies Return to School, In Person August 16 2021 | New Haven Independent LEAPers Travel the Globe in Summer Showcase August 10 2021 | New Haven Arts Paper Summer Camp Spotlights Biking ABCs July 28 2021 | New Haven Independent What’s Right With Schools: New Haven LEAP Program prepares kids to go back to the classroom July 22 2021 | News 8 WTNH At Read-In, Students and Symphony LEAP Back Into Books July 19 2021 | New Haven Arts Paper Q House-LEAP Contract Approved July 8 2021 | New Haven Independent LEAP-Q House Contract Advances May 11 2021 | New Haven Independent LEAP-Q House Contract Proposal Submitted April 5 2021 | New Haven Independent LEAP Tapped to Manage Q House April 1 2021 | New Haven Independent LEAP Celebrates With First-Ever Virtual Fundraiser March 1 2021 | New Haven Independent LEAP’s Famous Fundraiser Goes Virtual January 29 2021 | New Haven Independent 2020 Academic and Social Enrichment with Henry Fernandez of LEAP for Kids December 14 2020 | Comcast Newsmakers New Haven LEAP program continues helping at-risk kids with schooling during pandemic September 15 2020 | WTNH LEAPers Reimagine Dixwell Avenue July 23 2020 | Arts Council Greater New Haven LEAP, National Dairy Council Encourage Healthy Eating, Exercise in New Haven Summer Camps July 21 2020 | WTNH How LEAP Salvaged Summer July 15 2020 | New Haven Independent LEAP Counselors See “Breaking Point” On Policing June 10 2020 | New Haven Independent Chromes for Kids June 9 2020 | New Haven Independent Adapting and Responding to Challenging Times April 30, 2020 | WTNH News Nonprofit Fills Covid-Related Gaps For Families April 1, 2020 | New Haven Independent LEAP To Start Video-Based Programs During COVID-19 Mar 19, 2020 | New Haven Independent LEAP Celebrates 25th Anniversary Mar 3, 2020 | New Haven Independent LEAP Year Celeb Dinners On Tap Jan 18, 2020 | New Haven Independent Teen Follows Mom’s College Dream Jan 10, 2020 | New Haven Independent 2019 LEAP: Surrounding Kids With Approachable Neighborhood Role Models is Key to Success Nov 8, 2019 | Kars4Kids Spooky Doings Planned Oct 23, 2019 | New Haven Independent YHHAP to host nonprofit meet and greet Oct 11, 2019 | Yale Daily News New York Life Foundation Awards $1.35 Million in Grants to Out-of-School Time Programs to Help Middle School Students Transition to 9th Grade July 24, 2019 | New York Life Community Connections: LEAP June 2, 2019 | Connect Media Julia’s Run celebrates two decades April 14, 2019 | Yale Daily News 20th Annual Julia’s Run for Children April 14, 2019 | New Haven Register Road race to benefit New Haven’s LEAP, honor Yale student who died in 1999 March 18, 2019 | New Haven Register USA Swimming Foundation Awards $507,461 of 2019 Grant Funding for Make a Splash Local Partners March 25, 2019 | Swimming World Editorial Team Evening Raises Consciousness, 200K For Young People March 3, 2019 | New Haven Independent LEAP Plans Major Fundraiser Feb 24, 2019 | Yale Daily News Learn + Dine Feb 7, 2019 | New Haven Independent 2018 LEAP Book Drive Hits The Suburbs Dec 16, 2019 | New Haven Independent LEAP hosts 10th annual Halloween festival Oct 28, 2018 | Yale Daily News CT LIVE!: LEAP's Halloween Festival October 23, 2018 | NBC CT Trick or LEAP October 22, 2018 | New Haven Independent LEAP re-opens fifth site October 08, 2018 | Yale Daily News LEAP looks to help kids make life-changing choices while learning crucial skills. July 18, 2018 | WTNH News LEAP's Read-In Rocks The Green July 12, 2018 | Arts Council of Greater New Haven LEAP mixes sunny weather with spoken words at Read-In July 13, 2018 | New Haven Register Bookworms swarm New Haven Green for "Leap Read in Green" event July 12, 2018 | WTNH News LEAP Children's Program May 17, 2018 | Comcast Newsmakers Why Are Minority Children In The US More Likely To Drown? May 16, 2018 | WNPR News LEAP receives Hearst Foundations grant May 10, 2018 | CT Post Nonprofit receives grant for swim program April 25, 2018 | Yale Daily News LEAP Awarded $35K Grant to Expand Programs April 17, 2018 | NBC CT New Lifeguards Minted April 15, 2018 | New Haven Independent Despite cold, nearly 250 participate in Julia’s Run April 14, 2018 | Yale Daily News Julia’s run goes into its 19th year April 10, 2018 | Yale Daily News USA Swimming Foundation Awards Over $436,000 in 2018 Grant Funding for Make a Splash Local Partners March 26, 2018 | US Swimming Foundation Chris Murphy Visits Wakanda March 18, 2018 | New Haven Independent Kids LEAP into Wakanda March 05, 2018 | New Haven Independent Nonprofit presents Black History Month showcase February 15, 2018 | Yale Daily News