Cost
Free
Eastchester Community Center Cornerstone Program
Free Cornerstone program serving youth ages 5-18 in Eastchester, Bronx, run by Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corp with afterschool, summer camp, and evening/weekend programming
Eastchester Gardens Cornerstone Program provides comprehensive programming including summer camp and afterschool services for elementary students between Kindergarten and 5th Grade, with homework help, recreational, educational, and artistic activities. The program also offers evening and weekend programming (Saturdays and Sundays during summer, Saturdays during school year) for middle school, high school, and adult participants. The Night Center activities are designed to engage older youth and adults in community-building experiences.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 3016 Yates Avenue, Bronx, NY 10469 |
| Borough | Bronx (Eastchester) |
| Provider | Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation |
| Website | nidcny.org |
| Phone | (718) 881-5933 |
Age Range
Ages 5-18 (K-12+)
Program Type
Cornerstone
Category
Youth Development
Eastchester Community Center offers comprehensive programming including:
Elementary Program (K-5):
- Homework Help: Academic support and tutoring
- Recreational Activities: Games, sports, and physical fitness
- Educational Programming: STEM, literacy, and skill-building
- Artistic Activities: Visual arts, music, and creative expression
- Summer Camp: Full-day summer programming with field trips
- Safe Environment: Supervised afterschool care
Evening/Weekend Programs (Middle School, High School, Adults):
- Night Center: Evening activities for older youth
- Weekend Programming: Saturday/Sunday activities
- Community Building: Social activities and connections
- Teen Leadership: Opportunities for older youth
- Adult Programming: Activities for community members
- Year-Round Access: Programs during school year and summer
About Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation
Section titled “About Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation”Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation (NIDC) has been serving Bronx communities since 1979, making it one of the borough’s most established community development organizations. For over 45 years, NIDC has been committed to strengthening neighborhoods through comprehensive programs and services.
Mission: NIDC works to improve the quality of life for Bronx residents by developing affordable housing, providing youth and family services, and building strong, sustainable communities. The organization believes that thriving neighborhoods are built when residents have access to quality services, safe spaces, and opportunities for growth.
History & Impact: Founded in 1979 during a period of significant urban decline in the Bronx, NIDC began by rehabilitating abandoned buildings and creating affordable housing. The organization quickly recognized that housing alone wasn’t enough—families also needed supportive services, educational opportunities, and community spaces.
Core Program Areas:
- Community Centers: Cornerstone and recreational programs
- Youth Development: Afterschool, summer camp, and teen services
- Housing Development: Affordable housing creation and management
- Family Services: Case management and social supports
- Senior Programs: Activities and services for older adults
- Community Building: Events and initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods
Comprehensive Community Development: NIDC takes a holistic approach to neighborhood revitalization:
- Place-Based Strategy: Operating multiple programs within specific neighborhoods
- Resident Engagement: Involving community members in program design
- Partnership Building: Collaborating with schools, organizations, and government
- Long-Term Commitment: Maintaining presence and services over decades
- Asset Development: Building on community strengths and resources
Eastchester Gardens Focus: The Eastchester Gardens community center reflects NIDC’s commitment to serving entire families and neighborhoods. By offering programs for all ages—from young children through adults—the center becomes a true community hub where multiple generations can connect, learn, and grow together.
The evening and weekend programming is particularly innovative, recognizing that older youth and adults also need positive spaces and activities outside traditional work and school hours.
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Visit the Center Stop by Eastchester Community Center at 3016 Yates Avenue to tour the facility.
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Choose Program Track Select elementary afterschool/summer camp OR evening/weekend programming based on age.
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Complete Registration Fill out enrollment forms with participant information and emergency contacts.
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Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of age, address, and school enrollment (for youth programs).
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Attend Orientation Participate in program orientation to understand schedules and expectations.
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Start Participating Begin attending programs based on selected track and schedule.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Completed registration form
- Proof of child’s age (birth certificate or school ID)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or lease)
- School enrollment verification (for youth programs)
- Emergency contact information
- Medical information and consent forms
- Parent/guardian photo ID
- Program preference form (daytime vs. evening/weekend)
Eastchester Community Center is accessible via multiple transit options:
- Subway: 5 train to Baychester Avenue (10-minute walk) or 2 train to Pelham Parkway
- Bus: Bx8, Bx21, Bx30, Bx31 serve the Eastchester area
- Located in the Eastchester Gardens housing development
Parks & Recreation
Pelham Bay Park, NYC’s largest park, offers extensive recreation nearby
Library
Eastchester Library at 1385 E Gun Hill Road provides books and programs
Shopping
Bay Plaza Shopping Center nearby offers retail and dining options
Healthcare
Jacobi Medical Center and community health clinics serve the area
Last Updated: November 25, 2025