On a cold November night, unexpected circumstances threatened to derail AHRC NYC’s Advance & Earn program. With mere hours until the scheduled classes, the usual program space was unexpectedly unavailable due to a maintenance issue. Faced with a critical situation, Program Director Jonathon Epstein reached out to Christopher Dowling, Director of Community Engagement at The Village – A Chance In Life.
Despite the late hour, Chris responded with incredible speed and generosity. He secured approval for AHRC NYC staff and participants to utilize the organization’s beautiful space, ensuring that the program could continue without interruption. This swift action and willingness to help saved the day for the Advance & Earn program and its participants.
The move to The Village – A Chance In Life’s space was seamless. The welcoming environment and ideal layout facilitated productive classes. The day was further enriched by Chris’s presentation on the organization’s Youth Leadership and other programs, offering the participants valuable opportunities for personal and professional development. Additionally, Dottie Brown from Joe Holzka Community Garden, a new internship site located nearby, presented about exciting volunteer and professional opportunities, further expanding the horizons of the participants. Chris had introduced us to Dottie as he has many of our strongest partners.
The generosity extended by Chris and his colleagues went beyond providing a space. AHRC NYC staff were also welcomed to utilize the organization’s office, showcasing a true spirit of collaboration and support. The highlight of the day was seeing A&E intern Rand Moore taking on a valued role on Chris’s team as she put together long lists of collaborators who have all doubtlessly been meaningfully supported by Cynthia, Claire, Jackie, and Chris and the rest of team at The Village – A Chance In Life.
As the day was winding down, Advance & Earn had the opportunity to repay kindness with kindness. Chris was notified only a short while before it launched that the instructor for the youth leadership series scheduled that evening would not be attending. Jonathon quickly coordinated with his team and Employment Skills Instructor, Cheryl Nelson, cheerfully stepped up to fill in. Cheryl was able to provide a beautiful presentation on Listening Skills and Public Speaking. No one would have guessed that it could come together on such short notice.
This experience serves as a testament to the power of community and collaboration. The Village – A Chance In Life’s willingness to step in and help, without hesitation, ensured the success of AHRC NYC’s program and enriched the lives of its participants. This act of kindness underscores the importance of working together to support one another and make a positive impact in our communities.
There is much more to come through this partnership, including meaningful volunteer opportunities available for all people supported by AHRC NYC on Tuesdays at The Village – A Chance In Life’s fully accessible food pantry. Those interested in this opportunity or in need of food and other resources may coordinate with Advance & Earn or simply show up at 1100 Castleton Avenue during business hours on Tuesdays.
AHRC NYC extends its deepest gratitude to The Village – A Chance In Life for stepping up and saving the day. Their generosity and support are truly appreciated.
