Empowering Asian American youth through creativity, community, and confidence.
By Ashley Ye | December 11, 2024
Childhood is a time of boundless potential, where creativity, exploration, and connection shape the foundations of confidence and self-identity. Apex for Youth’s Elementary Enrichment Programs aim to harness that potential, building confidence and fostering a sense of belonging among Asian American youth from Kindergarten to 5th grade. By creating a supportive community of peers and trusted adults, these programs help young minds navigate a critical developmental stage while discovering new interests and deepening ties to their culture and community.
At the core of this initiative is the Elementary Explorers program, designed specifically for students in grades 3 through 5. This program offers hands-on workshops that encourage curiosity and teamwork, from crafting plant pots and bookmarks decorated with flowers to engineering bridges out of popsicle sticks and straws. Explorers also engage with their local communities—cleaning up parks and learning the value of leadership and collaboration. Alongside these activities, they explore elements of AAPI culture, connecting their identities to the broader world around them.
A Journey Through Hands-On Learning: Highlights from Recent Workshops
This past month, our youth in Sunset Park, Brooklyn participated in a rotation of three unique activities, with each group engaging in a different activity during each session. Over the course of the program, every student had the opportunity to experience all three activities, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the themes.
These workshops align with the goals of the Elementary Explorers program by incorporating the “4 Cs”: Choice, Connection, Confidence, and Community-Mindedness. Students are encouraged to make choices in their creative projects, fostering a sense of agency. Activities like team-building bridge challenges promote collaboration and resilience, while gratitude exercises and acts of service build community-mindedness.The Elementary Explorers program emphasizes creating moments of connection and fostering a sense of belonging.
“A standout moment was when a fifth-grader shared that she was making a card for herself to celebrate self-gratitude, showcasing her confidence and positive sense of self.”
– Erica Kim, Elementary Program Coordinator in Brooklyn
“One previously hesitant third-grader who wasn’t initially excited about arts and crafts now embraces creativity as a strength and aspires to become an artist. Another student, once reserved, took the lead during a scavenger hunt at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, sharing his enthusiasm with peers and volunteers alike.”
– Erica Kim, Elementary Program Coordinator in Brooklyn
The long-term goals of Elementary Explorers extend beyond individual sessions. By nurturing internal strengths like gratitude and a growth mindset, students are empowered to see themselves as contributors to their communities and beyond.
Through creativity, community service, and cultural pride, Apex for Youth is shaping the next generation of confident, empowered AAPI leaders.
“91% of parents report their child feels more comfortable being themselves.”
“93% of participants say they feel a true sense of belonging at Apex.”
Elementary Explorers is more than an enrichment program; it is an ecosystem fostering positive self-identity, meaningful relationships, and opportunities for exploration. By connecting students to their communities and culture, Apex for Youth ensures they are equipped to grow into leaders who celebrate their individuality and heritage while making a lasting impact.
Come join us in exploring our community with our elementary students! Click here to learn more about the Elementary Enrichment program.
Apex for Youth celebrated Brooklyn Nets’ AAPI Night by highlighting the journeys of Asian American athletes and professionals, exploring how heritage, identity, and resilience shape their experiences both within the game and in their communities.
At Apex for Youth, we believe in the power of opportunity. On Tuesday, October 8th, we witnessed this power in action as New York City’s AAPI community came together in an inspiring display of unity, culture, and generosity at Madison Square Park at Taste of Asia.
