3 DS AFTERCARE INC
Everyone has a story, it’s not our job to know their story. Our job is to make them smile, if only for today
Programs and results
What we aim to solve
In bustling Nassau County, NY, communities like Roosevelt, Hempstead, and Freeport and Baldwin face a hidden crisis: a critical lack of comprehensive afterschool programs for school-aged children (ages 4-13). This gap widens existing inequities, jeopardizes food security, and hinders academic achievement, ultimately threatening the well-being and future success of countless children. Consider these stark statistics: • 38% of Nassau County children lack adult supervision after school, exceeding the national average of 28%. (Source: Afterschool Alliance, 2023) • 1 in 5 children in these communities’ experience food insecurity, a rate higher than the national average of 1 in 9. (Source: Feeding America, 2023) • Significant achievement gaps persist between low-income students and their wealthier counterparts, perpetuating social mobility barriers. • Nassau County students: experience a 42% chronic absenteeism rate, surpassing the state average of 38%. (Source: NYS Dept of Ed, 2022)
Our programs
What are the organization's current programs, how do they measure success, and who do the programs serve?
DWIGHT MENTORSHIP (Dependable, Witty, Intelligent, Gentle, Hardworking, Tenacious)
DWIGHT: Dependable, Witty, Intelligent, Gentle, Hardworking, Tenacious Mentoring Program
Addressing the Needs of New York State Youth
New York State, despite its strengths, faces challenges for its young people. Statistics show that. DWIGHT recognizes this need and proposes a comprehensive mentoring program to empower young people across New York State.
DWIGHT: Building a Brighter Future
DWIGHT pairs caring and qualified mentors with young people, fostering a dependable and supportive relationship. Our program focuses on:
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Equipping youth with the skills to manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. We utilize evidence-based approaches to address challenges like stress management, social awareness, and emotional regulation.
Conflict Resolution: Teaching effective communication and problem-solving techniques to navigate challenges constructively. Role-playing exercises and workshops will equip youth with the tools to
DANIELLE SUMMER CAMP (Dynamic, Artsy, Noble, Innovative, Empowering, Lively, Lyrical, Encouraging)
DANIELLE envisions a summer camp experience brimming with life and lyrical energy, where children from underserved communities discover their potential and blossom into well-rounded individuals. We aim to nurture their social-emotional well-being, equip them with life skills, and empower them to become active and positive contributors to society.
Goals:
Empowerment through Education: Provide a stimulating and innovative curriculum that fosters social-emotional learning (SEL), conflict resolution skills, and entrepreneurial and vocational exploration.
Holistic Development: Integrate life skills workshops like healthy decision-making, financial literacy, and mental health awareness to prepare children for future success.
Building Strong Communities: Cultivate a sense of belonging and connection through collaboration and teamwork activities.
Bridging the Gap: Partner with local organizations to offer mental health counseling and extend the camp's impact beyond the summer months.
DARIA AFTER SCHOOL (Dependable, Affordable, Reliable, Incredible, Afterschool)
3 D's Aftercare Inc.'s, DARIA STEAM afterschool program serves school aged youth ages 4-13 , providing a safe and enriching environment to unlock their full potential. Through an integrated approach implemented by paid staff, interns, volunteers, and community partners, that blends hands-on STEAM learning with essential life skills development, mental health support, and entrepreneurial training, we empower them to become confident, self-aware, and contributing members of their communities.
Goals:
Academic Achievement: Enhance academic performance and close the achievement gap by offering targeted support in core subjects, fostering a love of learning through STEAM exploration, and building effective study habits; Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Equip students with the critical skills to manage emotions, build healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts constructively, leading to improved social interactions and increased resilience
The Teen Parent That Rocks, Parenting Program
Teen parents face unique challenges in raising their children. The TPTR Nurturing Program addresses this need by equipping young parents with the skills and support necessary to thrive in their roles.
Goals:
Promote positive parenting skills and healthy child development.
Enhance the self-esteem and confidence of teen parents.
Foster healthy family dynamics and communication.
Break the cycle of teen pregnancy by empowering young parents to make positive choices for their future.
Objectives:
Develop Nurturing Parenting Skills: Participants will learn evidence-based strategies for positive discipline, communication, and fostering emotional well-being in their children.
Promote Self-Sufficiency and Resilience: The program will equip teen parents with life skills like budgeting, time management, and healthy stress-reduction techniques.
Build a Supportive Community: TPTR will create a safe space for peer-to-peer connection and mentorship from experienced adult teen parents.
Aged Like Fine Wine 55+ Club
The population of adults over 55 is rapidly growing in the United States. . This demographic also faces unique challenges, including social isolation, financial concerns, and navigating later-life decisions. The Aged Like Fine Wine (ALFW) Club addresses these needs by fostering a vibrant community that promotes connection, well-being, and continued growth.
Goals:
Combat Social Isolation: Create a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can build friendships and meaningful connections.
Empower Through Knowledge: Offer workshops and resources to enhance financial literacy, technology skills, and end-of-life planning knowledge.
Spark New Interests: Provide a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests, promoting physical and mental well-being.
Foster a Sense of Community: Create a supportive network where members can share experiences, learn from one another, and feel a sense of belonging.
Teen Café/ Middle School Mingle: A Safe Space for Growth and Connection
Empowering Middle Schoolers/ Teens Through Positive Interactions
Teenagers navigate a complex world filled with challenges and opportunities. They crave independence while needing a safe space to connect with peers and develop essential life skills. The Teen Cafe program addresses this need by providing a welcoming environment where teens can gather after school, enjoy a healthy meal, and participate in enriching activities.
Goals:
Create a Positive and Safe Space: Foster a supportive environment free from negative influences, where teens feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Promote Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Equip teens with the skills to manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and resolve conflicts constructively.
Develop Life, Vocational, and Entrepreneurial Skills: Offer workshops and practical demonstrations on topics like personal finance, basic car maintenance, interview skills, and exploring career options.
Provide Access to Mental Health Support:
Where we work
Affiliations & memberships
OCFS 2019
Photos
Our results
How does this organization measure their results? It's a hard question but an important one.
Number of children who have an innate motivation to master and control their environment
This metric is no longer tracked.Totals By Year
Related Program
DARIA AFTER SCHOOL (Dependable, Affordable, Reliable, Incredible, Afterschool)
Type of Metric
Outcome - describing the effects on people or issues
Direction of Success
Increasing
Our Sustainable Development Goals
Learn more about Sustainable Development Goals.
Goals & Strategy
Learn about the organization's key goals, strategies, capabilities, and progress.
Charting impact
Four powerful questions that require reflection about what really matters - results.
What is the organization aiming to accomplish?
3 D's Aftercare Inc.'s STEAM programs serves under-resourced school aged youth ages 4-13 in Roosevelt, Freeport, Hempstead, and Baldwin, providing a safe and enriching environment to unlock their full potential. Through an integrated approach implemented by paid staff, interns, volunteers, and community partners, that blends hands-on STEAM learning with essential life skills development, mental health support, and entrepreneurial training, we empower them to become confident, self-aware, and contributing members of their communities.
1. Academic Achievement: Enhance academic performance and close the achievement gap by offering targeted support in core subjects, fostering a love of learning through STEAM exploration, and building effective study habits.
2. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Equip students with the critical skills to manage emotions, build healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts constructively, leading to improved social interactions and increased resilience.
3. Mental Health Well-being: Promote mental health awareness and offer confidential individual and group counseling sessions by master’s level Social Work interns, to address anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
4. Life Skills Mastery: Cultivate practical skills for daily living through workshops and interactive activities in areas like personal finance, nutrition, time management, and career planning, preparing them for adulthood independence.
5. Conflict Resolution: Foster peaceful conflict resolution by teaching effective communication strategies, mediation techniques, and peer support networks, creating a safe and respectful learning environment.
6. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Ignite entrepreneurial creativity and innovation through project-based learning, guest lectures, business simulation games, and mentorship opportunities, empowering them to become future problem-solvers and potential business leaders.
7. Community Engagement: Cultivate a strong sense of community belonging and civic engagement by involving families, local businesses, and community organizations in program activities and initiatives, fostering collaboration and mutual support.
What are the organization's key strategies for making this happen?
Key Strategies:
• Innovative and responsive enrichment services: Our STEAM-focused educational program leverages engaging hands-on activities and project-based learning to spark curiosity, ignite creativity, and deepen understanding in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. We tailor our approach to individual student needs and interests, ensuring optimal learning and skill development.
• Small group environment (1:7 ratio): This personalized setting fosters close interaction with counselors, allowing for individualized support, deeper engagement, and effective conflict resolution.
• Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills: Through real-world challenges, collaborative projects, and open-ended inquiry, we equip students with the ability to analyze, dissect, and creatively solve problems effectively.
• Enhancing reasoning and judgment: We integrate activities that cultivate critical thinking skills, logical reasoning, and responsible decision-making, empowering students to navigate challenges with confidence.
• Sparking enthusiasm for learning: Our program creates a fun and interactive environment that fosters curiosity, encourages exploration, and sustains an intrinsic love for learning.
• Active engagement in peer learning: We design collaborative activities and projects that promote respectful communication, teamwork, and knowledge sharing, fostering a vibrant peer learning community.
• Demonstrating age-appropriate interactions: We provide guidance and support to help students develop positive communication skills, respect boundaries, and build healthy relationships with peers and staff.
• Equipping students with peer mediation and conflict resolution skills: We train students in effective communication strategies, active listening, and conflict resolution techniques, empowering them to handle disagreements constructively and build a peaceful learning environment.
What are the organization's capabilities for doing this?
Agency Background:
3 D's Aftercare Inc., named after Dr. Zoe Williams' three children, was formally incorporated in 2008 and attained its 501(c)(3) status in 2012. Guided by the mission "To empower children, create confidence, and encourage academic accountability," we strive to cultivate a nation of empowered young minds who positively impact their communities and the world.
Addressing Learning Loss and Community Needs:
Recognizing the urgent need for solutions amidst the learning loss and social-emotional disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for remote learning students, 3 D's expanded its capacity from 27 students in Baldwin, NY to 111 in a new location. This strategic move allowed us to effectively serve more children experiencing anxiety and social-emotional challenges. Notably, 95% of our current students joined through parent referrals, highlighting the strong community need for our programs.
Proven Track Record of Success:
Our impact is evident in the remarkable achievements of our students:
• 100%: Improved at least one grade level.
• 100%: Demonstrated progress in social-emotional skills and conflict resolution.
• 100% of middle school students: Made the honor roll.
• 100%: Learned a new skill.
• 85%: Responded positively to mental health counseling.
• 99% of parents: Found our services exceeding their expectations.
Comprehensive Program Design:
Empowering children is at the core of our approach. Through:
• STEAM initiatives: We foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills during early care, afterschool, summer camp, ESL classes, workshops, and community programming.
• Signature programs: We address diverse needs with Dr. Zoe's signature programs like The Teen Parent that Rocks Parenting Program, Middle School Mingle, The Teen Café, and Aged Like Fine Wine 55+ Club.
• Essential program components: We provide family-style meals, life skills training, social-emotional learning, conflict resolution, mental health counseling, peer mentoring, and cultural enrichment.
Recognized Excellence:
Our dedication to youth empowerment has garnered recognition:
• Nassau County's premier School Aged Program by OCFS: Our work was featured in OCFS training videos.
• "Nonprofit of the Night" at Nets Stadium: This prestigious award demonstrates community support for our impact.
Expertise for DARIA Steam:
With over 15 years of experience in successfully empowering children through diverse programs, 3 D's possesses the expertise and capacity to implement DARIA Steam effectively. Our proven track record in academic improvement, social-emotional development, and community engagement equips us to deliver a high-quality STEAM program specifically for under-resourced youth
What have they accomplished so far and what's next?
How we listen
Seeking feedback from people served makes programs more responsive and effective. Here’s how this organization is listening.
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How is your organization using feedback from the people you serve?
To identify and remedy poor client service experiences, To identify bright spots and enhance positive service experiences, To make fundamental changes to our programs and/or operations, To inform the development of new programs/projects, To identify where we are less inclusive or equitable across demographic groups, To strengthen relationships with the people we serve, To understand people's needs and how we can help them achieve their goals
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Which of the following feedback practices does your organization routinely carry out?
We collect feedback from the people we serve at least annually, We take steps to get feedback from marginalized or under-represented people, We aim to collect feedback from as many people we serve as possible, We take steps to ensure people feel comfortable being honest with us, We look for patterns in feedback based on demographics (e.g., race, age, gender, etc.), We look for patterns in feedback based on people’s interactions with us (e.g., site, frequency of service, etc.), We engage the people who provide feedback in looking for ways we can improve in response, We act on the feedback we receive, We share the feedback we received with the people we serve, We tell the people who gave us feedback how we acted on their feedback, We ask the people who gave us feedback how well they think we responded
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What challenges does the organization face when collecting feedback?
We don't have any major challenges to collecting feedback
Financials
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Operations
The people, governance practices, and partners that make the organization tick.
Connect with nonprofit leaders
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- Analyze a variety of pre-calculated financial metrics
- Access beautifully interactive analysis and comparison tools
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Connect with nonprofit leaders
SubscribeBuild relationships with key people who manage and lead nonprofit organizations with GuideStar Pro. Try a low commitment monthly plan today.
- Analyze a variety of pre-calculated financial metrics
- Access beautifully interactive analysis and comparison tools
- Compare nonprofit financials to similar organizations
Want to see how you can enhance your nonprofit research and unlock more insights? Learn More about GuideStar Pro.
3 DS AFTERCARE INC
Board of directorsas of 07/25/2024
Clarence Cunny
Charles Rutenberg Realty
Term: 2022 - 2025
Rahsmia Zatar
STRONG Youth
Iris Mack
Citigroup
Darcel Jones
Roslyn Bank
Teremce McLaughlin
State Farm
Board leadership practices
GuideStar worked with BoardSource, the national leader in nonprofit board leadership and governance, to create this section.
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Board orientation and education
Does the board conduct a formal orientation for new board members and require all board members to sign a written agreement regarding their roles, responsibilities, and expectations? Yes -
CEO oversight
Has the board conducted a formal, written assessment of the chief executive within the past year ? Yes -
Ethics and transparency
Have the board and senior staff reviewed the conflict-of-interest policy and completed and signed disclosure statements in the past year? Yes -
Board composition
Does the board ensure an inclusive board member recruitment process that results in diversity of thought and leadership? Yes -
Board performance
Has the board conducted a formal, written self-assessment of its performance within the past three years? No
Organizational demographics
Who works and leads organizations that serve our diverse communities? Candid partnered with CHANGE Philanthropy on this demographic section.
Leadership
The organization's leader identifies as:
Race & ethnicity
Gender identity
Transgender Identity
Sexual orientation
Disability
Equity strategies
Last updated: 07/25/2024GuideStar partnered with Equity in the Center - an organization that works to shift mindsets, practices, and systems to increase racial equity - to create this section. Learn more
- We review compensation data across the organization (and by staff levels) to identify disparities by race.
- We disaggregate data to adjust programming goals to keep pace with changing needs of the communities we support.
- We employ non-traditional ways of gathering feedback on programs and trainings, which may include interviews, roundtables, and external reviews with/by community stakeholders.
- We have long-term strategic plans and measurable goals for creating a culture such that one’s race identity has no influence on how they fare within the organization.
- We use a vetting process to identify vendors and partners that share our commitment to race equity.
- We seek individuals from various race backgrounds for board and executive director/CEO positions within our organization.
- We have community representation at the board level, either on the board itself or through a community advisory board.
- We help senior leadership understand how to be inclusive leaders with learning approaches that emphasize reflection, iteration, and adaptability.
- We engage everyone, from the board to staff levels of the organization, in race equity work and ensure that individuals understand their roles in creating culture such that one’s race identity has no influence on how they fare within the organization.