Cost
Free
Fort Independence Community Center Cornerstone Program
Free year-round Cornerstone program serving ages 5-18 in Kingsbridge, Bronx, run by Mosholu Montefiore Community Center with academic support, arts, sports, and leadership opportunities
Fort Independence Cornerstone is open year-round, offering vibrant and inclusive programming for all members of the community. For elementary and middle school participants (ages 5-12), the center provides afterschool and summer camp programs focused on building strong social-emotional skills, academic support and tutoring, enrichment activities, recreation and sports, performing arts, karate, and leadership opportunities such as class leaders and Girl Scouts. The program also serves teens and adults with specialized programming.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 3350 Bailey Avenue, Bronx, NY 10463 |
| Borough | Bronx (Kingsbridge) |
| Provider | Child Development Center of Mosholu Montefiore Community Center |
| Website | mmcc.org |
| Phone | (718) 882-4000 |
Age Range
Ages 5-18 (Elementary-Adult)
Program Type
Cornerstone
Category
Youth Development
Fort Independence Community Center offers comprehensive year-round programming including:
Elementary & Middle School (Ages 5-12):
- Social-Emotional Skills: Building emotional intelligence and interpersonal abilities
- Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and educational enrichment
- Enrichment Activities: STEM, arts, and creative learning
- Recreation & Sports: Physical fitness, games, and athletic activities
- Performing Arts: Theater, music, dance, and creative expression
- Karate: Martial arts instruction and discipline
- Leadership Opportunities: Class leaders, student government, and Girl Scouts
- Summer Camp: Full-day summer programming with field trips
Teen & Adult Programs:
- Specialized programming designed for older youth and community members
- Leadership development and community engagement opportunities
Mosholu Montefiore Community Center (MMCC) has been serving Northwest Bronx communities since 1971, making it one of the borough’s most established and trusted community organizations. For over 50 years, MMCC has provided comprehensive services that strengthen families and build vibrant neighborhoods.
Mission: MMCC works to enhance the quality of life for Bronx residents through education, social services, health programs, and community development. The organization believes that strong communities are built when residents have access to quality programs, supportive services, and opportunities for growth.
History & Legacy: Founded in 1971 as a partnership between community activists and Montefiore Medical Center, MMCC began by addressing the needs of families in the Mosholu Parkway area. The organization has grown to operate multiple community centers and programs throughout the Northwest Bronx.
Core Programs:
- Community Centers: Cornerstone and recreational programs
- Youth Development: Afterschool, summer camp, and teen services
- Early Childhood: Head Start, pre-K, and childcare programs
- Adult Services: ESL, workforce development, and senior programs
- Health Services: Health education and wellness programming
- Family Support: Case management and social services
- Arts & Culture: Music, dance, theater, and visual arts
Child Development Center: The Child Development Center of MMCC specializes in programs for young people:
- Developmental Approach: Programming designed around stages of child development
- Social-Emotional Focus: Explicit instruction in emotional regulation and social skills
- Academic Support: Tutoring and educational enrichment
- Arts Integration: Creative expression through multiple artistic mediums
- Physical Development: Sports, recreation, and movement activities
Fort Independence Cornerstone Philosophy: The Fort Independence center embodies MMCC’s comprehensive approach:
- Inclusive Programming: Welcoming all community members regardless of background
- Vibrant Activities: Engaging, fun programming that attracts participation
- Year-Round Service: Consistent presence supporting families throughout the year
- Multi-Generational: Programs for elementary through adult participants
- Community Building: Creating connections and social capital within the neighborhood
Leadership Development: MMCC emphasizes leadership opportunities for young people:
- Class Leaders: Student representatives and peer mentors
- Girl Scouts: Character development and skill-building through scouting
- Teen Programs: Leadership training for older youth
- Community Service: Opportunities to give back to the neighborhood
The Fort Independence Cornerstone is a true community anchor, providing safe, enriching spaces where Bronx families can connect, learn, and thrive together.
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Visit the Center Stop by Fort Independence Community Center at 3350 Bailey Avenue to tour the facility and meet staff.
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Choose Program Track Select elementary/middle school afterschool, summer camp, or teen/adult programming based on age and interests.
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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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Select Activities Choose from available enrichment options like performing arts, karate, Girl Scouts, etc.
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Attend Orientation Participate in program orientation to understand schedules and expectations.
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Start Participating Begin attending daily programming year-round.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- MMCC enrollment form
- Proof of child’s age (birth certificate or school ID)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or lease)
- School enrollment verification
- Emergency contact information
- Medical information and consent forms
- Immunization records
- Photo/media release form
- Activity preference form (karate, Girl Scouts, etc.)
Fort Independence Community Center is accessible via multiple transit options:
- Subway: 1 train to 231st Street (7-minute walk) or 4 train to Bedford Park Blvd
- Bus: Bx10, Bx28, Bx34 serve the Kingsbridge/Bailey Avenue area
- Located in the Kingsbridge neighborhood with good transit connectivity
Van Cortlandt Park
NYC’s fourth-largest park offers extensive recreation, sports fields, nature trails nearby
Library
Kingsbridge Library at 291 W 231st Street provides books, programs, and study space
Shopping
Kingsbridge commercial corridor along Broadway and 231st Street offers diverse services
Healthcare
Montefiore Medical Center and community health clinics serve the neighborhood
Last Updated: November 25, 2025