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I.S. 131

The Kips Bay – I.S. 131 program, located at 885 Bolton Ave., Bronx, NY 10473, provides a safe and supportive environment for middle school students in grades 6–8.

Funded by the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD), the program delivers high-quality after-school experiences designed to help members grow academically, socially, and personally during these pivotal years.

​Our core programming focuses on Leadership & Character Development through the Boys & Girls Club curriculum, Financial Literacy through the Money Matters program, and hands-on Science activities that reinforce concepts learned during the school day. Through engaging discussions, interactive projects, and collaborative learning, members build confidence, strengthen decision-making skills, and begin exploring future academic and career goals.

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Physical Recreation

Intramural Sports

 

Members will engage in tournaments and competitions based on the physical education skills learned during the school day, extended into after-school programming.

 

Our intramural sports activities focus on teamwork and collaboration, helping students develop positive social and problem-solving skills.

 

Participants learn to work together, encourage teammates, and strive toward common goals, fostering cooperation and mutual support.

 

Social Recreation

 

Social Rec provides members with opportunities to build camaraderie through a variety of social activities, including board and card games, as well as video games. We incorporate games that are both enjoyable and educational.

 

For instance, Monopoly teaches money management, while Clue enhances critical thinking. These activities promote positive socialization, improve communication skills, and help build friendships.

 

Engaging in social recreation fosters a sense of community, belonging, and boosts self-esteem and confidence.

 

Gaming

 

Members will dive into various video games to learn about teamwork and collaboration while exploring the history and evolution of video gaming. This program encourages members to work together and understand the role of video games in cultural and technological contexts.

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Education & Career

Financial Literacy

 

Through the Boys & Girls Club Money Matters curriculum, members learn essential financial skills that empower them to make informed decisions. Students explore topics such as budgeting, saving, goal setting, and understanding income and expenses. Financial Literacy programming equips young people with practical tools to manage money responsibly, build independence, and plan for long-term success.

 

Girls Rule the Law

 

Girls Rule the Law is a dynamic program focused on civics, mock trials, and debate. Participants will learn about the fundamentals of law, debate techniques, and the judicial process, culminating in a mock trial event with another DYCD program.

 

The program is guided by licensed professionals in the judicial system, including attorneys, judges, and paralegals, in collaboration with the Girls Rule the Law organization.

 

Homework Help

 

During Homework Help sessions, group leaders provide assistance to students with their homework.

 

For students in grades K-8, who may have daily homework assignments, group leaders support those needing extra help and ensure that all participants are completing their assignments.

 

Students without homework or who finish early will engage in brain puzzles, logic games (such as Kanoodle or chess), or reading to continue their learning.

 

Science

 

Science programming encourages curiosity, experimentation, and problem-solving. Members explore core scientific concepts through interactive activities and collaborative projects that make learning tangible and engaging. By asking questions, testing ideas, and analyzing results, students develop analytical skills and a deeper understanding of the world around them — preparing them for academic achievement and future career pathways.

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​Character & Leadership

Smart Moves

 

SMART Moves is a Boys & Girls Club curriculum designed to equip children with essential life skills and open doors to numerous opportunities. Led by staff and peer leaders, this program provides a smart start with vital life lessons tailored to meet the developmental needs of young children.

 

The curriculum includes direct instruction, age-appropriate activities, and engaging games, focusing on key topics such as self-esteem, bullying, and social-emotional development.

 

Through SMART Moves, children develop five critical skills:

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  • Self-Awareness: Understanding one’s own emotions and thoughts.

  • Self-Management: Learning to regulate emotions and behaviors.

  • Social Awareness: Recognizing and understanding the feelings of others.

  • Relationship Skills: Building and maintaining healthy relationships.

  • Responsible Decision-Making: Making choices that are ethical and constructive.

 

By fostering social and emotional learning, SMART Moves provides a solid foundation for safe and positive development, enhancing students’ success in school, careers, and life.

 

Learn more >>>​

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Health & Wellness

Triple Play

 

In our club, we teach our participants that individuals who participate in regular structured physical activities when they are younger are more likely to lead physically active lives as they get older, which can help them lower their risk of various health issues in the future. A Boys & Girls Club crafted program, through fun and engaging activities, the program delivers health education and programming that promotes the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition. It also focuses on the underlying causes that negatively impact health by enabling youth to develop life-long skills that are foundational to their present and future success.

 

Culinary Arts

 

Members will learn basic cooking skills and introduce themselves to different cuisines. Members will use alternative ingredients to understand different diets (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) to create better eating habits.

 

Learn more >>

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Arts & Crafts

Drama & Theater

 

Through Drama & Theater, members step into new roles — literally and figuratively. Students explore acting, improvisation, scriptwriting, and stage presence while building confidence and public speaking skills. Whether performing in front of peers or working behind the scenes, participants learn teamwork, emotional expression, and the power of storytelling.

 

Digital Arts

 

Digital Arts gives members the opportunity to create in the mediums they interact with every day. From graphic design and basic video production to digital illustration and multimedia projects, students learn how to turn creativity into tangible digital skills. This program encourages innovation, technical literacy, and responsible use of technology in a supportive environment.

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Dance

 

Dance programming provides an energetic outlet for self-expression and physical wellness. Members explore various styles of movement while developing coordination, discipline, and confidence. Beyond choreography, dance fosters teamwork, perseverance, and pride in performance — helping students move with purpose both on and off the floor.

Clubhouse Staff

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Anthony Poe

Program Director

885 Bolton Ave. Bronx, NY 10473

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(718) 893-8600 ext. 14105

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Clubhouse Hours: Monday — Friday 2:30pm — 6:00pm*

*We are also open 13 days (OST Days) during the school year when school is closed.

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