DETROIT – A unique after-school program in Southwest Detroit combines tutoring, music and mentorship. Now in its fourth year, New City Kids is looking to expand.
New City Kids is an after-school program the pairs students with teen mentors.
“The magic is in the relationships we have,” said Rich Colon from New City Kids. “Kids want good role models and teens need to experience what it is to lead.”
Teen mentors in the program have a 100% rate. The skills they learn here carry well into adulthood.
“Being at New City Kids and being on the leadership team has helped me to discover myself and my leadership/performance ability. It’s been very helpful,” said Jayda Anderson, a mentor.
Younger students get help with their homework while exploring their artistic talents.
“It really has opened something for me that I haven’t noticed because now I want to be a keyboard player,” said Maximilian Keller, a mentee.
“We see a lot of kids that maybe didn’t have an interest in instruments, that when they get here and see they can do it, it really does unlock something special to see,” said Colon.
New City Kids runs Monday through Thursday and spots are open.
The impact reaches far beyond the classroom.
“I’m getting new friends, I’m smiling more and I’m more confident when I’m out and about,” said Keller.
“This program is about helping the future, learning who we are through the activities we do and about encouragement and teaching them to be mentors like I am,” said Anderson.