Astoria Community Center Afterschool Program

Program Overview

Astoria Community Center offers a year-round Cornerstone program through HANAC that promotes mental health through the theme “Understanding Our Emotions: Building Healthy Minds from the Inside Out.” Inspired by the movie Inside Out, this innovative approach helps participants of all ages better understand and care for their mental health. Located in the heart of Astoria, this free program serves youth ages 5-18 with comprehensive services addressing the community’s strong need for mental health support.

Mental Health Focus

The program uses the popular movie “Inside Out” as a framework to help young people understand that emotions are essential and interconnected, promoting emotional wellness and mental health awareness.

Location & Contact Information

Detail	Information
Address	4-05 Astoria Boulevard, Astoria, NY 11102
Borough	Queens (Astoria)
Provider	HANAC (Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee)
Website	hanac.org
Zip Code	11102
Program Type	Year-round (weekdays, weekends, and summer)

Program Details

Cost

Free

Age Range

Ages 5-18

Program Type

Cornerstone

Category

Youth Development

What Students Experience

The Cornerstone program at Astoria Community Center provides:

• Mental Health Programming: Emotional awareness, coping skills, and mental wellness activities
• Social-Emotional Learning: Understanding emotions, building resilience, and self-regulation
• Academic Support: Homework help, tutoring, and educational enrichment
• Arts & Culture: Creative expression, visual arts, music, and cultural activities
• Sports & Recreation: Basketball, soccer, fitness, and recreational games
• Community Events: Family nights, cultural celebrations, and neighborhood gatherings
• Youth Leadership: Peer mentoring, decision-making, and civic engagement
• Family Support: Parent workshops, family counseling referrals, and engagement activities
• Health & Wellness: Nutrition education, fitness programs, and healthy living
• Safe Space: Year-round supervised environment for community youth

About HANAC

HANAC (Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee) has been serving the Queens community since 1972, providing comprehensive social services, youth programs, senior services, and community development. As one of Queens’ leading nonprofit organizations, HANAC operates multiple community centers, afterschool programs, early childhood centers, and family support services across Western Queens. The organization’s mission focuses on empowering diverse communities through accessible, high-quality programs that promote education, health, cultural heritage, and social services. HANAC serves thousands of individuals and families annually with culturally responsive programming.

How to Enroll

1. Visit the Community Center Stop by Astoria Community Center during operating hours to inquire about program enrollment and availability.

2. Complete Registration Fill out the HANAC program registration form with student and family information.

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

4. Needs Assessment Meet briefly with staff to discuss any specific needs or interests, particularly related to mental health support.

5. Attend Orientation Participate in a program orientation to learn about activities, mental health resources, and expectations.

6. Start Participating Begin attending programs and activities immediately after enrollment is complete.

Required Documents

• Directoryenrollment-packet/

  • Program registration form
  • Proof of age (birth certificate or school ID)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Parent/guardian consent form
  • Medical information and allergies
  • Photo/media release permission
  • Mental health support preferences (optional)

Nearby Amenities

Transportation

The community center is exceptionally well-connected:

• N, W Trains: Astoria Boulevard station (0.1 miles)
• M, R Trains: Astoria Boulevard station (0.2 miles)
• Q18, Q19, Q69, Q100, Q102, Q103 buses serve the area

Community Resources

Astoria Library

Queens Public Library branch with extensive resources, study spaces, and programs at 14-01 Astoria Boulevard

Astoria Park

Large waterfront park with pool, sports fields, playgrounds, and running tracks

Mount Sinai Queens

Hospital providing community health services and mental health resources

Museum of the Moving Image

Interactive media museum with educational programs and family activities (0.6 miles)

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Last Updated: November 25, 2025