Serving New York City Youth
Since 1897
Impact
88 % of students camp for the first time at the Manice Education Center
5:1 is the student-to-staff ratio, which means students benefit from strong bonds of trust.
91% of students know that “a good leader uses different leadership styles to be effective in different situations.”
98% satisfaction rating for the field trip program from school personnel
How and Where We Work
In public school classrooms, where our Environmental Educators teach a customized 7-week environmental science curriculum
In weekend urban ecology and community service programs, especially at t
At our 85-acre Manice Education Center in a remote corner of the Berkshire Mountains
And with distinguished partner institutions providing opportunities for advanced study and wilderness programs
History
Christodora has served under-resourced communities across New York City for over a hundred years. Founded in 1897 as a pioneering nonsectarian settlement house, Christodora’s modest beginnings are credited for launching the career of social reformer Harry L. Hopkins, adviser to Franklin D. Roosevelt and architect of the New Deal programs, hosting George Gershwin’s first public concert in 1914 and helping countless Americans adjust to life in a new country. The Christodora House gave hope and direction to thousands of low-income New Yorkers by empowering them to help themselves and their neighbors. Today, we build on this tradition to serve 2,000 motivated New York City students each year.
Vision
We provide opportunities for young people to learn about the environment and experience the natural world first-hand. At Christodora, we believe experiences with nature are transformative: allowing one to better understand the natural world and shape their role within it.
Mission
We encourage the positive academic and developmental growth of New York City's youth through stimulating educational and challenging outdoor programs.
