GLOBAL KIDS CHRONICLES:

NOVEMBER 2024 UPDATE

Giving Tuesday Edition 🎁

Dear Global Kids Community,

As Thanksgiving approaches, we reflect on how grateful we are for the unwavering support of our friends and partners. Your generosity makes it possible for us to empower youth to become catalysts for change and lead bright, impactful futures.

This month, our students have seized remarkable opportunities, from advocating for climate justice at COP29 in Azerbaijan to celebrating Haiti’s vibrant culture at a special embassy event in Washington, D.C. In New York City, we proudly welcomed senior leadership from the Department for Youth and Community Development (DYCD) for a visit, while across our programs supported over 1,000 college applications, thanks to SUNY and CUNY’s fee waivers.

As we count down to Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join us in creating even more transformative opportunities for young people to thrive. Thank you for standing with us—together, we’re making an incredible impact.

Global Kids Youth Leaders Take the Stage at United Nations COP29

Global Kids high schoolers Munab and Ahmed made their voices heard on the global stage in the fight against climate change at the COP29 in Azerbaijan.

Global Kids made waves at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, as two exceptional youth leaders, Munab and Ahmed, joined by dedicated staff member Emma, proudly represented our mission on the world stage.

Partnering with Peace Boat US, Munab and Ahmed participated in powerful panels on youth leadership in climate justice, actively engaged in key COP29 Azerbaijan events, and brought fresh perspectives to this global forum. Munab, a passionate climate change advocate from John Adams High School, championed critical issues like biodiversity loss and food security, with an emphasis on social justice for vulnerable communities. Ahmed, a junior at William Cullen Bryant High School, highlighted the urgent public health implications of climate change, connecting it to air quality, heart health and community well-being.

Through their passion and leadership, these young changemakers inspired global action and proved that youth voices are essential in shaping a more sustainable future.

Click through the slideshow below to see highlights from Global Kids at COP29 ↓

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Giving Tuesday is Next Tuesday!

Give Global Kids’ Youth the World

As we count down to Giving Tuesday on December 3, we encourage you to make Global Kids a part of your year-end giving plans. This year, Global Kids has served over 10,000 youth across New York City and Washington, D.C., empowering them through academic growth, wellness initiatives, college and career readiness, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world. Now more than ever, our programs are essential. Your donation can make a lasting impact – join us next Tuesday to help Give Our Kids the World.

DYCD Senior Leadership Visits Global Kids at High School for Global Citizenship

On Wednesday, November 20, New York City Department for Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Deputy Commissioner Susan Haskell and Assistant Commissioner Tracy Caldron visited our COMPASS High program at the High School of Global Citizenship. During their visit, students shared heartfelt testimonials about how Global Kids’ out-of-school-time programs have transformed their lives – helping them explore their interests, forge new friendships and experience lifechanging opportunities like international travel.

Coinciding with Climate Action Week, the visit also featured an interactive showcase led by the school’s Green Team – Global Kids’ climate justice club. Students engaged the commissioners in fun, carnival-themed activities focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling, designed to build environmental awareness among the entire school population.

We extend our deepest gratitude to DYCD for its invaluable support, including significant funding and technical assistance for our out-of-school-time and employment programming in NYC schools. Together, we’re building brighter futures for our youth!

Global Kids Rallies Youth to Apply to SUNY and CUNY

This fall, both the State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) waived application fees for all New York City students – a remarkable opportunity for college-bound seniors. To ensure our students could maximize this benefit, Global Kids provided comprehensive support to guide them through the application process. A highlight of these efforts was our CUNY Application Party, where students from eight partnering schools came together to receive individualized support from our staff at Global Kids’ headquarters on November 11. Combined with activities across our 14 high school sites, these efforts enabled the submission of 1,000 fee-waived applications to SUNY and CUNY schools. At Global Kids, we’re proud to help open doors to higher education and empower students to take the next step toward achieving their dreams.

Dominique Jones Named a 2024 Power Player in Education

Congratulations to our Executive Director, Dominique Jones, for being recognized as a 2024 Power Player in Education by amNY Metro & Politics NY. This prestigious honor recognizes a diverse group of dedicated NYC leaders who are championing access and innovation across the education landscape. Global Kids is honored to be recognized, and celebrates Dominique’s bold and unwavering dedication to ensuring every young person has access to quality education – a fundamental human right.

Global Kids DC Celebrates Haiti’s Vibrant Culture at Embassy Event

Global Kids high school students from Washington, D.C. were warmly welcomed by the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti for an immersive experience in Haitian culture, language, food, and music. While Haiti’s political and security challenges have made global headlines for weeks, Global Kids aimed to highlight the country’s rich history, beauty, and resilience for our young people. A standout moment was learning about the significance of monte kap (kites) in Haitian culture, during which students had the chance to create their own kites and explore the symbolism behind their colors and shapes. Additionally, our youth expanded their culinary horizons by sampling traditional Haitian dishes, such as Bannann Peze (deep-fried plantains), Pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables), and Kabrit en sos (stewed goat). We had a wonderful time learning about Haiti’s heritage and celebrating the country’s vibrant traditions.