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Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts

FREE Brooklyn Community Services Beacon program for ages 5-18 in North Brooklyn. Dynamic school-based community center with youth programs, adult services, and family support promoting skills, careers, and community engagement.

The BCS Beacon program is a dynamic, school-based community center in North Brooklyn, servicing middle school and high school youth, adults, and families. For children and youth, BCS programs help young people acquire the skills they need to graduate from high school, succeed in their chosen career, and give back to the community. For adults, programs are designed to enhance life skills as well as promote social interaction, community engagement, and physical activity.

DetailInformation
Address101 Park Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205
BoroughBrooklyn (Fort Greene / Clinton Hill)
ProviderBrooklyn Community Services (BCS)
Program TypeBeacon
Websitebbcs.org
SchoolDr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts
CostFree
Ages Served5-18+ years old (youth through adults)

Youth Programs

  • Academic support
  • High school graduation support
  • Career readiness
  • Arts programs
  • Sports & recreation

Adult Services

  • Life skills enhancement
  • Physical fitness
  • Social interaction
  • Community engagement
  • Wellness programs

Family Support

  • Family workshops
  • Parent engagement
  • Resource connections
  • Community events
  • Support services

School-Based Hub

  • Convenient location
  • Safe environment
  • Extended hours
  • Community gathering space
  • Multi-generational

BCS Beacon participants engage in:

  • Youth Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and programs helping students graduate high school
  • Career Preparation: Skills training, job readiness, and pathways to employment success
  • Arts Programs: Visual arts, performing arts, and creative expression aligned with school’s arts focus
  • Sports & Recreation: Team sports, fitness activities, and active play for youth
  • Community Service: Opportunities for young people to give back to their community
  • Adult Life Skills: Programs enhancing capabilities, knowledge, and personal development
  • Physical Activity: Fitness programs, sports leagues, and wellness activities for adults
  • Social Interaction: Community gatherings, events, and activities promoting connection
  • Family Engagement: Programs bringing families together and supporting parent involvement
  • Multi-Generational Space: Youth, adults, and families all welcomed and served

Brooklyn Community Services has served North Brooklyn families for decades with comprehensive youth development, family support, education, and community programs. BCS Beacon programs create vibrant community hubs within schools, offering extended hours and diverse programming that serves multiple generations. The organization’s mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through high-quality services.

  1. Visit the Beacon Stop by Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School at 101 Park Avenue or visit bbcs.org.

  2. Choose Age-Appropriate Programs Select from youth programs (middle/high school), adult services, or family activities.

  3. Complete Registration Fill out enrollment forms for your selected programs and activities.

  4. Submit Documents Provide required documentation including proof of age and emergency contacts.

  5. Begin Participation Start attending programs during after-school hours, evenings, or weekends!

  • Completed application form
  • Birth certificate or proof of age (for youth)
  • School enrollment verification (if applicable)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Medical information/allergies (for youth)
  • Parent/guardian identification (for minors)
  • Program interest survey

Fort Greene Park

Major Brooklyn park with recreation center, playgrounds, farmers market, and cultural events.

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

Performing arts center offering theater, dance, music, and film programs nearby.

Public Transportation

Excellent access via A/C/G trains at Lafayette Avenue and multiple bus routes.

Fort Greene/Clinton Hill

Historic Brooklyn neighborhoods with strong arts community and cultural institutions.


Last updated: November 25, 2025

Program details subject to change. Please contact the provider directly to confirm current offerings, schedules, and availability.