Bedford Community Center Afterschool Program

Program Overview

Bedford Community Center offers The Salvation Army Bedford GAINS COMPASS afterschool and summer program for elementary students in Bedford-Stuyvesant. This free program provides participants with opportunities to explore their creativity through interactive literacy and creative art-based activities that enhance youth’s learning abilities while being fun. Students receive academic support, activities targeting their creative interests, and snacks throughout the day, while learning fundamentals of basic sports.

Arts & Literacy Focus

The program emphasizes creative art-based activities and literacy, helping students develop both academic skills and creative expression in an engaging environment.

Location & Contact Information

Detail	Information
Address	110 Kosciuszko Street, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Borough	Brooklyn (Bedford-Stuyvesant)
Provider	The Salvation Army
Website	salvationarmyusa.org
Zip Code	11216

Program Details

Cost

Free

Age Range

Ages 5-11 (Grades K-5)

Program Type

COMPASS Elementary

Category

Youth Development

What Students Experience

The COMPASS Elementary program at Bedford Community Center provides:

• Literacy Activities: Interactive reading, writing, storytelling, and language arts
• Creative Arts: Drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, and artistic expression
• Art-Based Learning: Using creative activities to enhance academic concepts
• Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and educational enrichment
• Sports Fundamentals: Basic skills in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and other sports
• Snacks & Nutrition: Healthy snacks provided daily with nutrition education
• Character Development: Values-based education and social-emotional learning
• Summer Programming: Extended program during summer months with additional activities
• Safe Environment: Supervised activities in a nurturing, faith-based setting
• Community Service: Age-appropriate volunteer opportunities and community engagement

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization and one of the world’s largest providers of social services. In New York City, The Salvation Army operates numerous community centers, afterschool programs, food pantries, homeless shelters, and family support services. Founded in 1865, the organization’s mission combines spiritual ministry with practical assistance, serving people in need without discrimination. The Salvation Army’s youth programs emphasize character development, academic achievement, and creative expression, providing safe spaces where children can grow and thrive. Their GAINS (Growth and Independence through New Skills) program focuses on building competencies for lifelong success.

How to Enroll

1. Visit the Community Center Stop by Bedford Community Center at 110 Kosciuszko Street to inquire about program enrollment.

2. Complete Application Fill out The Salvation Army COMPASS program application form, available at the center.

3. Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of age/enrollment, emergency contacts, and parent/guardian consent forms.

4. Program Overview Meeting Meet with staff to learn about literacy and arts activities, schedules, and expectations.

5. Snack & Allergy Information Provide dietary restrictions and allergy information for daily snack service.

6. Begin Participation Start attending the program and exploring literacy, arts, sports, and academic support activities.

Required Documents

• Directoryenrollment-packet/

  • Program application form
  • Proof of age (birth certificate or school ID)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Parent/guardian consent form
  • Medical information and allergies
  • Dietary restrictions for snacks
  • Photo/media release permission
  • Pick-up authorization form

Nearby Amenities

Transportation

The community center is accessible via public transportation:

• A, C Trains: Nostrand Avenue station (0.3 miles)
• G Train: Myrtle-Willoughby Avenues station (0.4 miles)
• B38, B43, B52 buses serve the area

Community Resources

Macon Library

Brooklyn Public Library branch with study spaces, computers, and children’s programs at 361 Lewis Avenue

Herbert Von King Park

Community park with cultural center, amphitheater, sports facilities, and arts programs

Boys and Girls Club of Metro Queens

Additional youth programming and recreational opportunities in the neighborhood

NYPD 79th Precinct

Local police precinct providing community safety and youth programs

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Last Updated: November 25, 2025