MISSION

The Crown Heights Service Center, Inc is a non-profit community-based organization dedicated to fostering growth and advancement within a supportive family-oriented environment for underserved populations. Through comprehensive educational programs and activities encompassing In-School, After-School, Out-of-School, and Summer initiatives, we aim to empower individuals and families alike to thrive and succeed.

VISION

The Crown Heights Service Center envisions a collaborative partnership with local school districts, empowering parents, families, and school-aged children to leverage resources effectively. We aspire towards a world where every child surpasses their educational and leadership potential, fostering a community where success knows no bounds.

HISTORY

Crown Heights Service Center, Inc. (CHSC) has served as a “Beacon of Hope” to Brooklyn locals for more than 40 years. While the not-for-profit organization was formerly incorporated in 1982, its roots can be traced back to the 1970’s when founder and community activist Gwendolyn Harmon sought to respond to the needs of a growing population unprepared for the ravages of drug addiction, a changing economy, and a lack of compassion for their fellow neighbor.

The Center is situated in a diverse section within the Central Brooklyn neighborhood from which it derives its name.

According to the 2020 census, Community Boards 8 and 9 have over 218,000 residents living within 1.6 square miles and over 45,000 children under 18, with 16.4% living in single female-headed households. Additionally, 36.6% of children under 18 live in households below the Federal Poverty level. The median household income stands at $41,700. This amount is $9,000 less than the New York City average.

Within Crown Heights, the Agency partners include, but are not limited to the 77th Pet Council, Community Board 8, Crown Heights Branch of NY Public Library and Union United Methodist Church.

Caring for children and youth during out-of-school time has become a pervasive family challenge.

Workforce trends indicate there are more working parents who spend more time at work than ever before (The After-School Corporation). The widespread need to find safe, affordable arrangements for their children is reflected in a C.S. Mott Foundation/J.C. Penny national poll in which the clear majority of respondents (86%) believe afterschool and out-of-school programs are a necessity.

The Crown Heights Institute for Leadership Development (CHILD) was created as a means of cultivating and expanding the minds and creativity levels of the youth of the community.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Located in the heart of Central Brooklyn is the Crown Heights Service Center, Inc. (CHSC) formed in the 1970’s by the late Mrs. Gwendolyn Harmon to serve as a ‘Beacon of Hope’ to the families and children of her community. As a community advocate, Mrs. Harmon, was extremely vocal with public officials on the needs and concerns of the Crown Heights community.

The Service Center established itself as a safe haven for low-income and immigrant families in need of answers, and compassion from their fellow neighbors.

The Crown Heights Service Center, Inc. is looking to leap into the new millennium with ideas for creating a universal center to address the needs of the Crown Heights Community. The Mission and Vision of the founder remains alive and vibrant through prevention programs, performing arts and academic enrichment while highlighting the importance of great decision making on the path to academic success.

During this time of great change, the Crown Heights Service Center is committed to continuing its growth by establishing strong goals, solid objectives and remembering to never forget, from whence we come.