It's been a wonderful summer on the Island. But the record crowds and terrific programs don't tell the whole story.
On July 24, the New Settlement's Bronx Helpers program brought 55 kids out for a day of reflection and relaxation. This non-profit community organization - dedicated to leadership development, civic engagement and community service for teens - was looking for an easy way to recharge their batteries.
On July 24, the New Settlement's Bronx Helpers program brought 55 kids out for a day of reflection and relaxation. This non-profit community organization - dedicated to leadership development, civic engagement and community service for teens - was looking for an easy way to recharge their batteries.
Bronx Helper sniffs flowers in the FIGMENT sculpture garden / Photo by New Settlement's Bronx Helpers
Our friends at FIGMENT helped coordinate their day. We were moved by the thank you note they received from the Bronx Helpers:
The Alliance thanks New Settlement's Bronx Helpers and FIGMENT for this reminder of why Governors Island matters.
"...It was such a safe space for the Bronx Helpers to let loose a little bit...Strangers speak to one another on Gov's Island. I think that most New Yorkers share special moments everyday with people they don't know, and on Friday at Governor' Island, people were particularly zealous and cheerful...
We enjoyed peddling on the bikes, observing and interacting with sculpture, walking through and talking about the history of our city, eating ice cream, playing dodge ball in the old moat...
We hope to return this summer. Thank you so much for helping to coordinate such a liberating experience for our group...."
The Alliance thanks New Settlement's Bronx Helpers and FIGMENT for this reminder of why Governors Island matters.