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East River Community Center Cornerstone Program

Free Cornerstone program serving youth ages 5-18 in East Harlem, Manhattan, run by SCAN-Harbor with focus on safe environment, academic growth, and enriched knowledge

The SCAN-Harbor East River Cornerstone Community Center strives to provide participants with a safe environment, facilitated by a diversified, knowledgeable, compassionate, understanding, and caring team of staff. The center works towards developing well-defined standards in three critical areas of improvement and achievement: active and ongoing participation by neighborhood youth, families, and other community stakeholders; growth in academic skills and development of an enriched knowledge base; and comprehensive youth development programming.

DetailInformation
Address404 East 105 Street, New York, NY 10029
BoroughManhattan (East Harlem)
ProviderSCAN-Harbor New York
Websitescanny.org
PhoneContact through website

Cost

Free

Age Range

Ages 5-18

Program Type

Cornerstone

Category

Youth Development

East River Community Center offers comprehensive Cornerstone programming including:

  • Safe Environment: Supervised, welcoming space with compassionate staff
  • Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and skill development
  • Enriched Knowledge Base: Educational programming that expands learning
  • Youth Development: Activities that build character, leadership, and life skills
  • Family Engagement: Programs and resources for the whole family
  • Community Participation: Opportunities for neighborhood involvement
  • Diverse Programming: Activities spanning arts, sports, STEM, and more
  • Year-Round Services: Extended hours and school break programming
  • Positive Relationships: Caring mentors who understand the community

SCAN-Harbor New York (Supporting Children And Networking) has been a cornerstone institution in East Harlem and the South Bronx since 1977. For nearly 50 years, the organization has provided comprehensive services to children, youth, and families, building deep roots and trusted relationships in the communities it serves.

Mission: SCAN-Harbor works to strengthen families and empower young people through integrated services that address education, health, social-emotional development, and family stability. The organization believes that all children deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential, supported by strong families and vibrant communities.

Core Values:

  • Compassion: Meeting people where they are with understanding and care
  • Excellence: Providing high-quality services based on best practices
  • Community: Building strong partnerships with neighborhoods and stakeholders
  • Empowerment: Helping individuals and families build their own capacity
  • Innovation: Continuously improving and adapting to community needs

Program Areas:

  • Community Centers: Cornerstone and neighborhood hubs
  • Youth Development: Afterschool, summer camp, and teen programs
  • Early Childhood: Pre-K, childcare, and family support
  • Educational Services: Academic support and enrichment
  • Family Support: Counseling, case management, and resources
  • Health & Wellness: Physical and mental health services

Community-Centered Approach: SCAN-Harbor’s strength lies in its deep community connections. The organization:

  • Employs staff from the neighborhoods served who understand local culture and challenges
  • Partners with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations
  • Provides culturally responsive programming
  • Advocates for policies that benefit low-income communities
  • Creates spaces where families feel welcomed and valued

Three Pillars of Success: The East River Community Center operates around three critical standards:

  1. Active Participation: Engaging youth, families, and community stakeholders
  2. Academic Growth: Developing skills and enriching knowledge
  3. Holistic Development: Addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit

By focusing on these pillars, SCAN-Harbor creates an environment where young people can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for success in school and life.

  1. Visit the Center Stop by East River Community Center at 404 East 105 Street during program hours.

  2. Meet with Staff Talk with program coordinators about your child’s needs and interests.

  3. Complete Enrollment Fill out registration forms with participant and family information.

  4. Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of age, address, and school enrollment.

  5. Attend Orientation Participate in family orientation to learn about programming and expectations.

  6. Start Participating Begin attending daily afterschool sessions and community activities.

  • Directoryenrollment-packet/
    • Completed registration form
    • Child’s birth certificate or proof of age
    • Proof of residence (utility bill or lease)
    • School enrollment verification
    • Emergency contact information
    • Medical information and consent forms
    • Parent/guardian photo ID
    • Income documentation (if applicable)

East River Community Center is easily accessible via public transportation:

  • Subway: 6 train to 103rd Street (2-minute walk)
  • Bus: M15, M116 serve the area along 1st Avenue and 116th Street
  • Located in central East Harlem near the East River waterfront

East River Park

Waterfront park with playgrounds, sports fields, bike paths, and river views

Library

Aguilar Library at 174 E 110th Street provides educational resources and programs

Healthcare

Metropolitan Hospital Center and Mount Sinai serve East Harlem residents

Cultural Centers

El Museo del Barrio and other cultural institutions celebrate Latino heritage


Last Updated: November 25, 2025