Partnership with Children
Partnership with Children, founded in 1908, provides trauma-informed and strengths-based support to approximately 30,000 students annually in New York City through a community school strategy and a wide range of services, including arts-based healing and educational programs.
History of Partnership with Children
Partnership with Children was founded in 1908, originally known as Big Sisters. It began by providing volunteer mentoring and services aimed at girls referred by the family court system. Over the years, the organization has evolved significantly, expanding its services and strategies. In 2020, Partnership with Children acquired the Center for Arts Education, further broadening its offerings to include arts-based healing and educational services.
Services Offered by Partnership with Children
Partnership with Children places full-time licensed clinical social workers, community school directors, and family outreach staff directly in schools. The organization offers a multi-tiered system of support, including individual counseling, small group counseling, and school-wide programs. Its services are trauma-informed and strengths-based, focusing on the mental health needs of students while promoting a positive school climate. Additionally, they provide professional development for educational and administrative staff, covering areas such as trauma-informed practices and anti-bias training.
Community School Strategy and Collaborations
Partnership with Children is committed to a community school strategy, delivering comprehensive and coordinated services to students and their families directly within schools. This commitment includes collaboration with over 80 community agencies, leveraging a broad array of resources to support students. This strategy has been a part of the organization's initiatives since 2014, playing a critical role in their operational framework.
Impact and Recognition
Partnership with Children serves approximately 30,000 students annually across the five boroughs of New York City. The organization has been recognized for its significant impact on academic gains, graduation rates, and attendance improvements. The organization has a robust investment in clinical supervision and staff development, ensuring high-quality services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they adapted by providing remote services and support to students and families.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives
Partnership with Children has a strong commitment to antiracism and includes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in its program design and organizational practices. The organization features a DEI Council composed of staff representing every job level, ensuring broad-based input and engagement. Through these initiatives, Partnership with Children continuously works to create an equitable environment for both staff and the students they serve.