B1C Wraps up Successful Summer Program Supporting Immigrant Youth

Building One Community (B1C) - The Center for Immigrant Opportunity has successfully concluded its Summer Reading & Math program. Designed for children in grades K through 5th, this program aimed to prevent the loss of academic skills over the summer break.

While most kids may not want to think about school during their summer, this free program provided crucial support for young immigrant participants. B1C collaborated with partners Springboard Collaborative, Roxbury Elementary School, Newfield Elementary school, Mindfulness Project and Bruce Museum to offer engaging math and reading challenges. Additionally, the program included exciting social and emotional development activities. Children enjoyed a trip to the newly renovated Bruce Museum, learning tennis, learning mindfulness and even had a Zumba session in the park.

The ultimate goal of the program was to ensure that children maintained their academic gains from the previous school year, enhance their language and social development, and prepare them for the upcoming academic year.

The summer concluded with a backpack distribution for the participants of the summer program and hundreds of area youths of various ages getting ready for the start of school. This program is an annual tradition thanks to B1C’s partnership and generosity with Bank of America.

“We had an amazing summer with our young participants. They excelled in academic activities and also had a great time during our social outings in the park. Our parents also joined us once a week and enjoyed the workshops and planned activities. This free program for our immigrant families is always in high demand, and spots fill quickly. B1C remains committed to providing accessible education to all community members, regardless of their background or economic status,” said Anka Badurina, PhD, Executive Director of B1C.

If you are interested in learning more about B1C’s youth enrichment programs this fall, including the popular STEAM program, please contact the Family & Individual Service department at FIS@B1C.org.

About Building One Community Building One Community (also known as B1C) is a nonprofit organization, established in 2011 that provides a comprehensive resource center for immigrants in the greater Stamford area. The mission of Building One Community is to advance the successful integration of immigrants and their families. Since its inception, the organization has served over 15,250 immigrants from 117 different countries. B1C provides free services that educate, employ, empower, and engage immigrants and the broader community. Programs offered include English Language Learning (ELL) programs, family and individual support services, immigration legal services, and workforce development programs. Community volunteers, donors, and partnerships are an essential component of the growth of Building One Community. More information may be found at www.B1C.org.