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Educating, inspiring and mobilizing youth to become global citizens who are positively engaged in the world and are prepared for their future.

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Academic Achievement

97% of GK Leaders graduate high school each year, as compared to the average graduation rates of 76% in NYC and 68% in Washington DC public schools. 94% attend college after and many also take direct action to improve their communities. GK alumni remain active civic leaders, champions of social justice and accomplished professionals in fields as varied as international affairs, business, law, healthcare, education, and the non-profit sector.

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Social & Emotional Learning

Our mission to develop active global citizens who are prepared to engage and succeed in our ever-changing world heavily centers around social and emotional skills. We promote collaboration, leadership development, global awareness, and civic engagement throughout our various programs. With support from our educators, our youth are exposed to the real world early on to gain experience, develop leadership skills and build confidence.

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Global Education

Our culturally responsive, anti-racist, youth voice-led approach upholds human and children’s rights by dismantling barriers to education. We prepare

young individuals to be stewards of human rights as they learn about the world around them. Our youth become global citizens and community leaders who work to make our world more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive.

EXPLORE STORIES

College & Career Readiness

Through a variety of school day and afterschool programs at school sites and at our headquarters, as well as enriching summer learning programs, Global Kids sets students on the path to achieving long-term goals by ensuring they have the support and resources needed to be ready for high school and postsecondary success.

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Upcoming Events

Impact by the Numbers

10K

Youth Empowered

3K+

Weekly Participants

2.5k

Partners Engaged

Our Partner Schools

Global Kids thoughtfully partners with schools to offer an array of services and programs that advance school goals and fulfill our mission to develop active global citizens who are prepared to engage and succeed in our ever-changing world.

Success Stories

“Global Kids (GK) has been a transformative experience for my students, helping them develop vital skills for the future.

Nora Jacobs, Educator

Our Collaborators

It’s here! The Fall 2025 edition of our Global Kids Chronicles!

This edition shares what our students have been learning, creating, and leading this season from classrooms to communities.

Use the Linktree in our bio to read more!

#GKAllDay #YouthVoices #Celebrate #empowerment

Lace up and join us for a day that goes further than the finish line.

On November 9, we’re gathering at Flushing Meadows Corona Park for the GK5K Family Day. A 5K run, walk, and push supporting youth college and career readiness programs through Global Kids.

Every mile makes a difference.
Start time: 9:30 AM | Rain or shine

Register now through the LinkTree in our bio: https://www.globalkids.org/5k

#youthvoices #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

We honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall (1934–2025), a visionary scientist, activist, and humanitarian whose work transformed our understanding of the natural world and inspired generations to act for our shared planet.

In Global Kids’ earliest years, Jane Goodall’s path crossed with one of our very first participants, Tung Cheng, during a UN conference in 1989. What began as a student interview became a lasting correspondence and mentorship. Tung’s story reflects how early experiences with global leaders can spark a lifetime of curiosity, compassion, and civic engagement.

Jane Goodall’s impact reached far beyond the forests of Gombe. Her commitment to youth, peace, and the protection of all living things continues to inspire Global Kids’ mission today. 🌍

📸: Courtesy of Tung Cheng
#JaneGoodall #GlobalCitizen

Flashback Friday, Tech Exploration with a special guest, CompuConstruct at @ps109school

This summer 14 middle school students learned about the world of computer building with tech expert Keith Taylor. Not only did they learn about the inner workings of a computer, but they also built functioning machines from scratch!

Students not only explored the components of a PC, but also applied their problem-solving skills in real time. Take a look at the highlights from this exciting summer STEM project!

#stem #gkallday #flashbackfriday #compuconstruct

On Friday, September 26, 2025, the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs (@nycinternationalaffairs) hosted youth from across New York City to share their ideas on how youth can tackle mental health at an #UNGA side event titled “NYC Youth-Led Roundtable on Mental Health.”

The event featured speakers and presentations from Global Kids, the Youth Publications and Socioeconomic Forum (@ypsforum), Teen Advocators (@teens_advocators), The Khipu Project (@thekhipuproject), the United Nations International Initiative for Racial Equality (@unire.international), and various city agencies.

We are extremely thankful to the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs for their commitment to supporting youth voices and acknowledging the youth mental health crisis at the margins of #UNGA80.

#mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #youthmentalhealth #GKallday #nyccsinaction

When schools are closed, GK has the opportunity to create new learning experiences! Take a look at our latest outings to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and Climate Action Week.

Highlights include the pop-up exhibit “FiDi & Seaport Climate Resilience Plan” at the South Street Seaport and the “ReWear the Revolution” event at the NYC Public Library. Learning about the world around us can start by getting involved locally.

Thank you to all of the student leaders from across our schools who joined us! We’re excited for what this school year has in store, GK is ready!

This is our final reminder, the GK Golf Classic is just around the corner!

If you haven’t had a chance to contribute yet, there’s still time.

Every donation helps Global Kids continue providing vital leadership and educational programming for youth.

Check out our event collage from past years and help us make this year even more impactful.

Donate or sponsor: https://www.globalkids.org/golf

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

🧠 Mental health is important. At Global Kids, youth leaders are making sure it’s front and center.

👏 Thank you @bronxdalehs for bringing awareness and support to their school community during Suicide Prevention Month.

💜 From our Suicide Prevention Month tabling to last year’s Youth Mental Health Conference, students have been building awareness and creating safe spaces for dialogue.

#YouthVoices #MentalHealthMatters #UNGA80 #gkallday #suicidepreventionmonth

One week until the GK Golf Classic. Your support helps Global Kids continue its work empowering youth through leadership development and global education.

Date: September 30
Location: Pelham Country Club
Donate or sponsor: https://www.globalkids.org/golf

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

From classrooms to the global stage! On Sept 22, GK youth shared their ideas on climate and oceans at #UNGA80 side event panel “The Road from UNOC to COP30.”

Thanks to the skills, knowledge, and experiences they gained through Global Kids, these young leaders confidently took the stage and made their voices heard. With support from @peaceboatus and encouragement from NYC Assembly Member Emerita Torres, they showed what youth-driven solutions can look like in action.

#GKallday #YouthAtTheUN #ClimateAction #UNGA80

🌍 Global Kids is heading to the UN! 🇺🇳
On Sept 22, our youth leaders will take the stage at #UNGA80 to share their vision for climate and justice in the panel “The Road from UNOC to COP30” side event.

We’re honored to be joined by NYC Assembly Member Emerita Torres, and deeply grateful to @peaceboatus for making it possible for GK youth to share their voices on this global stage. 🌊

Proud to see our students shaping global conversations!
#YouthVoices #ClimateAction #GKallday

Golf that goes beyond the green. We’re getting ready for the Global Kids Golf Classic, a day of fun that fuels a year of youth development.

Your support helps us provide leadership programs, civic engagement opportunities, and global education for students in NYC & DC.

Let’s make a difference one swing at a time.

Register here: https://www.globalkids.org/golf

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

In these first few weeks of school, our youth leaders are already taking their experiences to the next level! Meet Maicol, a dedicated GK leader, who’s bringing his voice to a UNGA side event, sharing his journey as a true change-maker. 🌍💡 #YouthLeadership #Globalcitizen #gkallday

We’re so inspired by the amazing turnout of future voters on National Voter Registration Day! Youth voices matter, and seeing their excitement to participate in democracy gives us so much hope for the future. 🗳️ #CivicEngagement #YouthVoices

Your voice matters, so make sure you’re ready to vote! Celebrate National Voter Registration Day by registering for NYC’s general election at nycvotes.org

Stay tuned, as GK hits the ground running with registration festivities this week.

@nycvotes #nationalvoterregistrationday

Consider following our partner, NYC votes to stay in the loop!

🌍 While world leaders gather at #UNGA to debate the future, our youth are already shaping it.

This Summer, Shafin, a GK leader developed an action project on media literacy, reminding us that the power to challenge misinformation, think critically, and strengthen democracy starts with everyday choices, especially in how we consume media. 📱 Way to go Shafin! Stay tuned to see his success!

Young voices aren’t just the future, they’re leading right now.
#YouthVoices #GlobalCitizenship #GKAllDay

It’s that time of year again… the countdown to the Global Kids Golf Classic begins!

As we gear up for this year’s event, we’re throwing it back to some unforgettable moments from last year, scenic views, laughs, and a community coming together for an empowering cause.

This isn’t just a day on the links; it’s a day to invest in the next generation of changemakers. Your support expands youth leadership, global awareness, and civic action in NYC and DC.

Register now and help us make an even bigger impact: https://www.globalkids.org/golf

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

🌍The 80th United Nations General
Assembly kicks off today in NYC! ✨
This year, world leaders are gathering to discuss some of the most pressing issues shaping our future. From global peace and security to climate action and sustainable development, the conversations happening here will have an impact on us all. 🌱🤝

Stay tuned as we highlight key themes and what they mean for young people and global citizens everywhere. 💡💙

#UNGA80 #GlobalCitizenship #YouthVoices #ClimateAction #gkallday

✨ The summer may be behind us, but the memories, hard work, and time spent together are paving the way for an incredible school year ahead.

🌟 Huge thanks to all of our GK Leaders, we’re wishing you the best this year! 💙 The journey continues, and there are so many more memories to make! #GKallday #BackToSchool #GlobalKids

Meet Maicol, a Global Kids Leader committed to creating change. Through our Summer Institute, he explored local and global issues and began developing solutions that matter to his community.

For his action project, Maicol is raising awareness about the challenges faced by unhoused people, locally and around the world, with the goal of inspiring others to be part of the solution.

#gkallday #youthleadership #studentvoices

Shining a light on the incoming students at the @highschoolforpublicservice, Global Kids joined school partners to continue a meaningful tradition, the annual walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. This symbolic walk marks the transition into a new chapter. Students and staff took a step forward together with excitement and possibility.

The walk ended on a sweet note with ice cream, celebrating both the tradition and the bright beginnings ahead.

#gkallday #brooklynbridge

Meet Valentina, another outstanding Global Kids Leader from this year’s Summer Institute. For her final Action Project, Valentina focused on the urgent issue of coral bleaching. She explored its impact on marine ecosystems and developed ways to raise awareness about protecting ocean life.

Valentina’s commitment to environmental justice shows how youth leaders can take complex challenges and make them personal, creative, and powerful.

We are so proud of Valentina and excited to see how her work continues to grow!

#gkallday #globalcitizen #coralbleaching #youthvoice #ihsunionsquare

Global Kids DC youth recently concluded a transformative week in Puerto Rico, immersing themselves in learning, growth, and the power of community in action. Towards the end of their stay, they visited Nuestra Escuela and Finca La Zafra. At @nuestraescuela , students discovered an educational approach that prioritizes social-emotional wellness alongside academic achievement. @fincalazafra offered an opportunity to learn about natural planting processes, local food systems and native foods, culminating in a hands-on cooking class. This memorable experience was made possible by the dedication of the students and Global Kids’ partners.

@dcdpr @mbyli_dc #MoreThanREC #DPRmoments #gkallday #mbyli

Meet Liam, a Global Kids Leader who took part in our three-week intensive (and fun!) Summer Institute. Liam is one of many Youth Leaders from all five boroughs who explored international policy and tackled some of the most pressing issues in our society, all through the lens of becoming a Global Changemaker.

Check out Liam’s Action Project, created to raise awareness about air pollution through case studies and community engagement. Our workshops and adventures are designed to challenge and inspire student leaders.

Way to go, Liam! We can’t wait to see your project come to life!

#gkallday #globalcitizen #airpollution #youthvoice

Dictate Your Fate. No Fear. No Hate.
Tonight we celebrated the hard work and creativity of NYC youth at the OCA Hate Crimes Prevention Project Art Contest 🎨✨.

The exhibit showcased artwork designed to raise awareness, spark conversation, and promote cross-cultural understanding. For nearly 20 years, OCA-NY has partnered with local youth organizations to lead this program, equipping high school students with the tools to plan a citywide art contest and host this inspiring annual event.

#hatecrimeprevention #artforchange #ocany

GK DC in Guaynabo, where our youth met Ra Jik from Wuru Taíno Tekiro’uo at the “Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas”. Through stories, cultural activities, and reflection, students deepened their understanding of the Taíno people, their history, values, and how Indigenous heritage continues to shape Puerto Rico today.

We added some fun and friendly competition with a trip to ECO Sports Park where students had the chance to learn new soccer skills.

#gkallday @mbyli_dc #globalcitizenship

Global citizenship in action — Day 1 in Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

From brunch in Santurce to exploring street art with local artist Alexis Bousquet, our youth spent the day learning how food, history, and culture shape a community. The evening brought a walking food tour through Old San Juan, where they tasted mofongo, empanadas, and rich cacao milkshakes while hearing stories that connected past and present.

This summer at Global Kids DC we witnessed and guided youth on an exploration like no other. 🌍 Stay tuned for more moments from our journey.

#gkallday #globalcitizenship #travelblog #youthvoice

Week 5 was packed at Global Kids D.C.!
From showcasing inventions in our SDG presentations to rolling up our sleeves for action project planning, GKDC brought big ideas and creative solutions to our very own “SDG Shark Tank.” 🦈

Another big highlight, a visit from ICAP, where youth shared their goals and gained real-world insights from professionals in the field.  
We’re so proud of how these young leaders turned knowledge into action during this hands-on week! 👏

#globalkidsdc #youthvoices #gkallday #sdgsinaction #studentleadership

The @bronxdalehs Class of 2029 is getting ready for high school and having fun doing it. During this two-week Summer Bridge program, incoming freshmen had the chance to connect with each other, build confidence, and get a head start on their next chapter.

Global Kids is proud to be part of this experience and support the transition to high school. Check out these snapshots from a creative activity where students decorated tote bags to carry with them into the fall.

More highlights from workshops and trips coming soon!

#gkallday #classof2029 #summerbridge #youthvoices

Since June 23rd, Global Kids DC Summer Institute youth have been exploring the Sustainable Development Goals, learning about topics like human rights, the digital divide, and unequal access to resources.

At our Youth Summit, participants turned that learning into action, presenting their action projects with their peers from New York City. One group focused on poverty and housing, creating resource guides to help community members access support services and working with credible messengers to distribute them.

This is youth leadership in motion. 💡👏
 #youthpower #globalcitizenship #sdgsinaction #gkallday

This week, our youth explored the world beyond the classroom with a two-day visit to the United Nations 🇺🇳. Behind the scenes they dug into what access to education looks like across regions and examined real-world challenges like conflict and displacement, and how young leaders can create change.  More to come — but let’s just say the UN cafeteria was a crowd favorite.
#unitednations #globalcitizenship #youthvoice #SDG4 #leadershipinaction

Week 3 at the GK DC Summer Institute was all about balance, purpose and play! From developing youth-led action projects rooted in human rights, to connecting with staff at American University, to dancing, laughing, and soaking up summer joy, our DC crew did it all.

#gkallday #youthpower #humanrightsinaction

At International High School, Program Coordinator Jovanda Darden is helping students dream big and take real steps toward their futures.

A proud CUNY alum, Jovanda brings heart, hustle, and her own college journey to everything she does—from campus visits and career workshops to creative tutoring with games like Wordle and Bananagrams.

She builds spaces where English language learners feel seen and supported, reminding us that college and career readiness is also about belonging, opportunity, and human rights.

#gkallday #careerreadiness

Global Kids youth from NYC and DC took to Capitol Hill for our 2025 Lobby Day! Youth met with the offices of elected officials to speak up on the issues they care about most. 🏛️✊🏽✊🏿✊🏼

From education and climate justice to youth safety and global rights, students shared their stories, asked bold questions, and reminded our leaders that young people are leading now.

Huge thanks to the offices of
@repjeffries
@repdangoldman
@rep_velazquez
@ritchietorresny15
@senkirstengillibrand
@repjerrynadler
and The House Committee on Foreign Affairs for welcoming our students with respect and open ears! 🙌🏽

📸 More highlights coming soon!

#GlobalKids #YouthVoice #CapitolHill #YouthLeadership #CivicEngagement #GKDC #GKNYC

Looking to hit the greens this fall, while also supporting young people to prepare for their future? Join us at our Global Kids 4th Annual Golf Classic on Tuesday, September 30th at Pelham Country Club.

For more information reach to derek.carroll@globalkids.org.

For more details, visit our Linktree in our bio: https://globalkids.org/golf/

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

Global Kids leaders in our D.C. Global Perspectives Track teamed up with @dccentralkitchen to fight food insecurity and support community wellness. Along the way, we’re learning that wellness isn’t just personal. It’s deeply connected to the world around us. 🌍

Now, hear directly from our students as they share their experiences and perspectives.

Want to make a difference too? Volunteer today by visiting dccentralkitchen.org/volunteer/

#gkallday #dccentralkitchen #youthaction

It’s not always easy to catch Jojo on camera, but that’s because they’re usually the one making the magic happen. Jojo is a key leader at the GK Summer Institute, building a space that’s collaborative, creative, and full of heart.

From guiding youth through workshops to helping shape powerful conversations, Jojo is constantly holding space for young people to lead, reflect, and take action. As bell hooks said, “At the heart of justice is truth-telling,” and Jojo brings that truth into everything they do.

Thank you for showing up with so much purpose, care, and vision. We’re lucky to have you.

#YouthChampion #GKSummerInstitute #GlobalKids #gkallday

Thriving in the Capital 🌟
Our youth at the GK DC Summer Institute have been soaking up knowledge, culture, and inspiration all across DC! From powerful conversations at Vital Voices to creative sparks at the Hirshhorn, every stop—Anacostia Museum, Folklife Festival, American Indian Museum, and more—has fueled their growth as global citizens.

🎥 Stay tuned for our next adventure with DC Central Kitchen and get a behind the scenes look & hear from students!

#GlobalKidsDC #gkallday #SummerInstitute #GlobalCitizenship

🌍 Global Kids Summer Institute is off to a powerful start!

High school students from across NYC explored our mission through a Global Citizenship Escape Room and learned about the Sustainable Development Goals, fast fashion, and climate migration.

Next we are visiting Hunter College, exploring sustainability and media & communications!

They’re already thinking like changemakers. 💡✨

#gkallday #GKSummerInstitute #globalcitizens

Intern Spotlight: Ibrahim
As our Data Analytics Intern, Ibrahim turned numbers into powerful stories! 📊✨

From tracking impact to uncovering trends, his work assisted Global Kids to grow smarter and stronger. We were grateful for his sharp eye, thoughtful insights, and commitment to making data matter.

Thank you, Ibrahim! 🙌

Interested in joining GK or getting hands on experience? Please see our website for open positions!

#InternSpotlight #GlobalKids #GKAllDay

☀️ Our DC students are bringing big summer energy! At Global Kids, they’re dreaming big, planning action projects, exploring careers, and getting excited for future trips. Ideas are flowing and impact is on the way. Let’s gooo! 🚀💼🌍 #GlobalKidsDC #gkallday

Cheers to the Successful Annual Gala!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2025 Global Kids Annual Gala at the Council on Foreign Relations in Manhattan.

Your presence and generosity helped us continue providing youth across New York City and Washington, D.C. with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.

We were grateful to be a part of a community that believed in the power of investing in our young people and what they can achieve.

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

Flashback Friday!
On May 31st, youth from across Global Kids DC came together for our 2025 Annual Youth Conference focused on Youth Mental Health. 🙌🧠

Shout out to our incredible student leaders and dedicated youth development professionals for making the day a huge success! 💙

Participants heard from inspiring guest speakers, took part in hands-on mental health workshops, accessed vital resources, and enjoyed fun games and powerful youth-led performances.

#GKAllDay #GKDC #YouthMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness

Full circle moments like this are why we do what we do. In this photo, Leslie Cano, then a high school student is sitting next to actress Monique Coleman.

Today, Leslie serves as our Director of Global Citizenship at Global Kids, and this year, she led our Annual Youth Conference themed, “Mental health is a voyage, not a destination”.

Because of your support, our youth don't just excel, they come back to lead.

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

Just one week away!! Let’s Celebrate Our Youth!

Join us at our Annual Gala on June 18, 2025 to invest in the future of our youth.

Join us. Sponsor a table. Purchase a Ticket. Make a Donation. Visit our page: https://globalkids.org/gala for more details!

#youth #celebrate #inspire #GKAllDay #empowerment #future #leaders

Check out our latest Staff Spotlight: Michael, HR Assistant.
He's focused on learning, growing and staying organized. Whether it's making sure school sites are fully staffed or adjusting to a changing world, he's all in. His advice to new team members: "It's okay to make mistakes. That's how we grow."

This Pride Month, we honor the right of every person to live with dignity, joy, and love.

At Global Kids, we stand for a world where all people, regardless of their identity, are valued, respected, and free to be themselves.

Happy Pride!

#pride #peace #love #equality

Behind every strong youth program is a team that dreams, plans, and shows up for young people everyday. Grateful for a team that leads with heart. #gkallday #youthdevelopment

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