New Waves at New Life
Summer Recap 2025, Vol. 24
New Life Earns Candid’s Platinum Seal: A Testament to 50 Years of Trust and Impact
We are proud to announce that we have been awarded Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition for accountability in the nonprofit sector. This distinction places us among a select group of organizations nationwide committed to openness, ethical practices, and integrity.
For more than 50 years, New Life has walked alongside youth and families in New York City, creating safe spaces for growth, learning, and belonging. Achieving Platinum status affirms what our community already knows—that we are dedicated to stewarding every resource with care, building trust through transparency, and remaining accountable as we expand our programs and invest in our new Ludlow Street home.
This recognition isn’t just a badge; it’s a reflection of our ongoing promise to serve with integrity and to continue strengthening opportunities for the next generation.
Summer Programming
Rolling into the heart of summer, New Life created a safe and engaging space for our youth at a time when it matters most. In New York City, 1 in 4 teens lack access to safe after-school and summer programs, leaving them more vulnerable to violence, food insecurity, and falling behind in academics. That’s why our summer calendar is full of opportunities that spark learning, build connections, and inspire growth.
Explore highlights from Camp New Life, our Summer of Exploration & Fun, and Music Camp Week by visiting our media gallery.
New Life: More Than a Program, It’s Family
“I stayed at New Life because it feels like family. The staff and my friends push me to do better, and it’s more than a program—it’s my community.”
“I’ve been part of New Life for three years. At first, I came because my friends were here, but I stayed because it feels like family. One moment I’ll never forget was when we found out New Life won $25,000 for a new kitchen—everyone cheered like we just won a championship game.
Since then, I’ve grown more confident and motivated, especially in athletics. The staff and my friends here encourage me to do better, and the support I feel at New Life extends beyond the program into my life outside. I keep coming back because this isn’t just a program—it’s my community and my family.
New Life has given me chances I never thought I’d have—like trying new sports, meeting mentors, and just having a safe space to hang out after school. It’s not just about the activities; it’s about the people who actually care and want to see you do well. Being here makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger, and that pushes me to keep showing up and giving my best.”
Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway & End-of-Summer Art Showcase
As summer comes to a close, New Life celebrated two important traditions that are at the heart of our mission: equipping youth for the school year ahead and celebrating the creativity they’ve nurtured all summer long.
This August, our Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway placed essential tools directly into the hands of students. Each backpack was filled with notebooks, pens, folders, and supplies that ensure our youth start the school year with confidence.
For many families, these resources relieve a financial burden while reminding young people that they are supported and valued by their community.
At the same time, our Creative Expression Studio came alive with the End-of-Summer Art Showcase, where students displayed paintings, sketches, digital media, and mixed art pieces they created during the summer.
This showcase was more than just an exhibition—it was a chance for youth to share their voices, express their perspectives, and celebrate their growth with friends, family, and community supporters.
Together, these two events marked a powerful close to our summer programming: preparing youth for academic success while also affirming the creativity and resilience they carry into the new school year.
Thank you to all our supporters, volunteers, and staff who made these moments possible. With your partnership, New Life continues to create spaces where our youth are equipped, inspired, and ready to shine.
