Serving youth in our community is a key priority at Catholic Charities New York. We are deeply committed to the belief that every young person deserves the support, structure, and opportunity to thrive. Our commitment comes to life each summer through programs like Summer Rising, a citywide initiative that blends academics with enrichment to keep students engaged and growing. With the support of Catholic Charities, young people across New York City are stepping beyond the classroom to build skills, gain confidence, and realize their full potential.
At La Plaza Beacon, home to Alianza, a division of Catholic Charities New York with over 30 years of community service, the summer camp experience is about more than fun. It’s a place where young people build confidence, gain new knowledge, and connect with mentors who care. It’s a space where learning happens every day, through hands-on projects, leadership opportunities, and real conversations.
At the heart of it all is Brenda Reyes, Outreach Coordinator at Alianza, who shared: “Our camp is open to everybody, it’s a community program, and there’s no service fee. Everything is free, which is a big plus, especially in our community. We focus on supporting kids academically and giving them space to have fun, grow, and connect. It’s all about helping them come back stronger for the school year, and letting them know Alianza is here for them, whatever they need.”
Mentorship That Makes a Difference
Group leader Viana Espinal works closely with a group of 8th graders preparing to transition into high school. She helps lead activities, supervises field trips, and offers advice and encouragement along the way. “A lot of kids come in shy or nervous, but by the end of the summer, they’ve made friendships they never expected,” said Viana Espinal, Group Leader. For Viana, the goal was more than just keeping kids entertained. It was about helping them build confidence and connection, skills that will carry them into the next school year and beyond.
Hands-On Learning and Community Connection
Campers took part in meaningful, real-world projects that connected them with their communities. One of the highlights was participating in a community health fair, where youth educated others about the dangers of illegal pesticides. “It’s a smaller setting. Everything’s more intimate, and you’re with the same people every day,” said Nyrain Gentles, Camper.
Nyrain especially valued the supportive, personal environment of the camp. She built strong friendships, learned about public health, and practiced leadership in an inclusive space where her voice mattered.
Personal Growth Through Trust
Campers were encouraged to push beyond their comfort zones, especially in group settings and public-facing projects. For some, it was their first time speaking to a crowd or leading a community activity. “It helped me open up and become more of an extrovert,” said one camper, Ireland Feliz. Ireland described herself as shy at the beginning of the summer. But through sing-alongs, group discussions, and public presentations, she discovered a new side of herself.
During the summer, youth received support from the Alianza staff, who made themselves available, both during structured activities and informal moments throughout the day. Group leaders checked in with participants, offered guidance, and created a space where everyone felt heard. “Brenda is always there for me. I feel like I can go to her anytime,” said Feliz.
Having a trusted adult to lean on gave Ireland and others the reassurance they needed to step up, try new things, and feel a sense of belonging at Alianza. “The experience was just amazing. I’d love to do it again.”
While summer camp is full of fun and exploration, it also prepares youth for the upcoming school year. Many campers return to school with stronger social skills, increased confidence, and a greater sense of community support. “I’m excited to keep in contact with the people I met here,” said Gentles.
During this summer, youth learn how to manage their time, speak up, and explore their interests in ways that build real-world readiness.
A Great Summer Experience
Whether it’s making new friends, leading a community event, or discovering your voice for the first time, a summer experience at La Plaza Beacon gives young people the tools to learn, lead, and level up. At Alianza, campers have the opportunity to do all three, and have a great time while they’re at it. Catholic Charities New York remains deeply committed to nurturing the potential of every young person, recognizing that investing in youth today builds stronger, more vibrant communities for tomorrow.
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