September at Apex: From 450 Youth at Opening Day to College Tours Overnight

Youth across NYC kicked off the semester with support, guidance, and experiences that prepare them for school, college, and beyond.

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September at Apex was all about new beginnings. As the youth kicked off the school year, they prepared for important transitions, whether stepping into high school, navigating college applications, or continuing their Apex journey with the support of caring staff and volunteers.

Our mentoring programs came alive again, with new mentor–mentee pairs forming alongside returning pairs who continue to grow together. We also celebrated the start of the semester with Opening Day events in Manhattan and Brooklyn, welcoming 450 youth and volunteers into the Apex community.

This month reminded us how vital support, guidance, and connection are during times of transition. With a strong community by their side, our youth are entering this new school year ready to learn, grow, and thrive.

Opening Day

Every September, we kick off our mentoring programs in Brooklyn and Manhattan with Opening Day. It’s the first event of the year where 6th–12th grade youth and their mentors come together for a day of connection and fun. New pairs meet for the first time, while returning pairs continue strengthening their bonds. This day marks the start of a new school year and all that’s ahead in Apex programs. This year was extra special as we celebrated our very first full 8th grade cohort!

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Overnight College Tour 

With college application season approaching, our College & Career Success program took students on an overnight college tour visiting Villanova, Haverford, and the University of Pennsylvania. Each year, we host two to three overnight trips to places like Boston, Philadelphia, and upstate New York, helping high schoolers envision themselves on campus, explore what they like (or don’t), and get a feel for different college environments. We intentionally select schools that vary in size and setting, giving students exposure to options they might not have considered before.

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Met Game 

Our elementary youth and families from Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn got the chance to experience a Mets game together! Many of our youth had never been to a game before, making it an extra special first for everyone. We’re always excited to create unique experiences that bring families across NYC together.

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What’s Next in October?

The Apex for Youth Associate Board (AB) is a group of current and former volunteers who strengthen the Apex community through recruitment, outreach, marketing, and cultivation of young donors engagement.

Here are some events they are hosting in October: 

Apex FitFam Tennis | October 12th | 4:30-7:00pm | USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center 

Calling all tennis players! We will be hosting a group hitting session for the Apex community at the USTA National Tennis Center! Cost will be $30 for current Apex volunteers and $50 for non-volunteers.

RSVP Here!

Welcome Back Drinks! | October 16th | 7-10pm | Ms. Yoo

Whether you’re a returning volunteer or new to the community, this get-together is a great chance to reconnect with fellow volunteers, meet new volunteers across programming, and meet Associate Board members. Come enjoy drinks, icebreaker games, and great conversation as we build momentum for the year to come.

RSVP Here!

Join Apex Staff!

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

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