Cost
Free - No cost to families
Gowanus Community Center
Free Cornerstone community hub for ages 5-18 in Brooklyn, provided by Grand Street Settlement
The Gowanus Community Center is operated by Grand Street Settlement, a bold and grand organization that has been serving New York City families since 1916. As a Cornerstone program, this center serves as a vital community connector, aiming to link residents, participants, and the community to resources and opportunities. The center provides free programming for youth ages 5-18, along with services for adults and seniors, making it a true hub for the entire household.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 420 Baltic Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217 |
| Borough | Brooklyn (Gowanus/Carroll Gardens) |
| Provider | Grand Street Settlement, Inc. |
| Website | grandstreet.org |
| Phone | (212) 674-1740 |
Age Range
Ages 5-18 (Elementary through High School)
Program Type
Cornerstone Community Center
Category
Youth Development
The Gowanus Community Center provides comprehensive services designed to support the entire household:
- Afterschool Programming - Safe, engaging activities during critical after-school hours for elementary and middle school students
- Summer Camp - Full summer programming with enrichment, recreation, and educational activities
- College Access Center - Support for older youth navigating college applications and higher education pathways
- Skill Building Resources - Life skills, career readiness, and workforce development opportunities
- Adult Education - Continued learning opportunities for parents and family members
- Senior Services - Programs and support for older adults in the community
- Community Connection - Links to resources, benefits, and opportunities across NYC
Founded in 1916, Grand Street Settlement has been a pillar of strength in New York City for over a century. Their motto - “Bold. Grand. Inspired.” - reflects their commitment to innovative, high-quality programming.
A Legacy of Service:
- 109 years of serving NYC families (since 1916)
- Established as a settlement house on the Lower East Side to serve immigrant families
- Expanded to Brooklyn, bringing proven programs to new communities
- Recent $3.2 million investment in child care through New Markets Tax Credit Deal
- Named after Grand Street on the Lower East Side, where their main office still operates
Their Mission: Grand Street Settlement is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families in New York City through:
- Educational programs for all ages
- Social services and case management
- Community engagement initiatives
- Early childhood education (Head Start, child care)
- Youth leadership development
- Adult workforce development
- Senior citizen programs
Community Impact:
- Serves thousands of families across Manhattan and Brooklyn
- Provides early childhood education through Head Start and Pre-K
- Operates Cornerstone community centers as neighborhood anchors
- Hosts major fundraising events including “Taste of the Lower East Side” and annual golf classic
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Visit the center in person Stop by 420 Baltic Street during program hours to speak with staff and tour the facility.
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Call Grand Street Settlement Contact (212) 674-1740 to inquire about current program availability and registration dates.
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Visit the website Go to grandstreet.org to learn more about all their programs and services.
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Complete enrollment forms Fill out the required registration paperwork with emergency contacts and health information.
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Provide required documentation Submit proof of age, address, and any other required documents.
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Attend orientation Participate in a program orientation to meet staff, understand schedules, and connect with other families.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Youth registration form
- Emergency contact information
- Medical/health information
- Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease)
- Photo release consent (optional)
- Pick-up authorization form
The Gowanus Community Center is centrally located with excellent public transportation access:
- Subway: Carroll Street Station (F, G trains) - 0.2 miles, 4-minute walk
- Subway: Union Street Station (R train) - 0.3 miles, 6-minute walk
- Bus: B61 (Smith St), B103 (Third Ave) routes nearby
- Bike: Citi Bike stations at 3rd St/3rd Ave and Carroll St/3rd Ave
- Car: Street parking available; Carroll Gardens has residential parking
Carroll Park
Historic neighborhood park (4.5 acres) with playgrounds, basketball courts, and green space at Carroll St & Court St (0.3 miles)
Brooklyn Public Library - Carroll Gardens
Library branch at 396 Clinton Street with books, computers, and free programs (0.4 miles)
76th Precinct
NYPD precinct at 191 Union Street providing community safety services (0.3 miles)
FDNY Engine 226
Fire station at 409 State Street for emergency services (0.4 miles)
- Key Food - 435 Court Street (0.4 miles) - Full-service supermarket
- D’Amico Foods - 309 Court Street (0.5 miles) - Fresh Italian groceries
- Whole Foods Market - 3rd Avenue & 3rd Street (0.4 miles) - Organic and natural foods
- Union Market - 754-758 Union Street (0.2 miles) - Local grocery
- Carroll Gardens Farmers Market - Carroll Park (seasonal) - Fresh local produce every Sunday
The Gowanus Community Center serves families in one of Brooklyn’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Gowanus sits at the intersection of several beloved Brooklyn communities including Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, and Cobble Hill. The area is known for:
- The Gowanus Canal - Historic waterway undergoing environmental restoration
- Artistic Community - Many artist studios, galleries, and creative spaces
- Industrial Heritage - Former manufacturing district transforming into mixed-use neighborhood
- Diverse Population - Mix of longtime residents and new families
- Growing Resources - New schools, parks, and community facilities
The neighborhood has seen significant investment in recent years, with new schools, affordable housing, and community resources making it an increasingly family-friendly area. The Gowanus Community Center serves as an anchor institution, providing stability and support as the neighborhood evolves.
Last Updated: November 25, 2025