New York City is home to numerous philanthropic organizations. This blog looks at three of the top organizations you should be aware of.
Avenues for Justice (AFJ) started in 1979. The organization looked at the high number of youths involved in the criminal justice system and developed an alternative to prison. AFJ asked the courts to send youths to their organization for counseling and education instead of sentencing them to jail. Sentencing a minor to prison is costly, and many of those sentenced commit further crimes upon release. AFJ has two youth centers where it is much cheaper for youth to stay. Plus, AFJ provides kids with various services to help them turn away from crime for good. The organization has three goals:
- Intervene and reclaim young people from lives of crime.
- Give the overloaded court system a reliable alternative to incarceration.
- Make the Lower East Side and East Harlem communities safer for everyone. (Source)
The majority of AFJ’s funds comes from private donors, so every donation is important and makes a difference. There are volunteer opportunities available as well.
Slow Food NYC is the New York City chapter of the national organization Slow Food USA. The organization focuses on making food three things: good, clean, and fair. Visit this link to learn more about these three principles. Slow Food NYC has four different programs. The Urban Harvest teaches schoolchildren about how healthy food benefits their bodies and their communities. Today over ten schools participate in the Slow Food in Schools program. In addition to the school program, Slow Food NYC has a Snail of Approval designation that is given to sustainable food providers. Check out the organization’s Get Involved page to learn how you can help support slow food in New York City.
Social Tees Animal Rescue
Social Tees Animal Rescue is a no-kill animal shelter located in the East Village. The shelter, which was founded in 1991, takes in animals found on the street and animals who are in kill shelters. Before the animals are put up for adoption, they receive proper veterinary care. None of the dogs that are up for adoption are kept onsite. Instead, they stay in foster homes. So one of the best ways to help out the organization is to foster a dog. You can also help out by fostering a cat, donating, or volunteering your time. Visit this site to learn more about volunteering.