All Banyan Programs
Banyan’s youth programs are based on community input and staff expertise, blended with current research on the assets that children need to develop a positive self-image, learn social and life skills, succeed in school, and ultimately overcome the cycle of generational poverty. The leaders of Banyan know that in order for children to thrive and ultimately graduate, go to post-secondary education and succeed as adults, whole families and the larger community must be connected and engaged. This is the successful blend that Banyan has honed over the last 25+ years that has led to outstanding outcomes.
Parents are drawn to Banyan because we are viewed as a safe place where their children can grow and thrive. The programming offered for youth year-round and throughout their educational careers addresses inequities in academic opportunities that are impacting low-income students, particularly students of color. Adult education programs help to elevate both knowledge and confidence. And community outreach and gatherings strengthen the neighborhood building trust and connection.
Community Connecting Programs
Creating community is an essential part of Banyan’s mission and is inseparable from the strength of our families. Banyan connects members of the neighborhood with each other to build trust, creating bonds that encourage communication and belonging. Banyan acts as a resource hub, connecting residents with supportive systems and equipping them as leading community members.
Lighthouse Network
Lighthouse Network is our block club program that nurtures community, promoting safety and communication on each block. The network now includes 35 blocks reaching out to 3,100 residents. The program engages residents to advocate, organize, and understand how systems work, and creates opportunities for learning and space for engagement.
Community Conversations meetings are Banyan Community’s Lighthouse Network’s gathering space dedicated to community members’ voice. During this once a month connections time, the Community Engagement Specialist provides details about Banyan’s community facing programs, occasionally coordinates trainings, and finally, facilitates conversation among the community members.
Senior Social Club
Banyan Community offers a space twice a month for older community members to gather and fellowship, complete a shared activity, and enjoy some snacks. Self-directed activities (puzzle, games) along with an open gym are also available.
CLEC (Community, Leadership, Education, and Connection)
CLEC is the primary component of our adult programming, which offers opportunities for adults to engage, learn, and connect with other Banyan parents. The adult offerings fall into three categories: 1) Connect groups where parents connect, get to know each other, and enjoy a shared activity; 2) Classes where parents learn together in a curriculum-driven, multi-session course; and 3) Training groups where parents participate in a one-time event to learn a specific skill.
“I love how Banyan supports families and kids. My kids really enjoy coming here and the educators do a great job.”
“I am so grateful for Banyan. I trust Banyan and the staff here with my children, which is very important to me.”
“Sometimes I think of moving to the suburbs due to the drug and homeless issues but, then I think of Banyan and my neighbors, friends and family and I say – I CAN NEVER LEAVE PHILLIPS.”
“I’m glad I came to Banyan this summer or else I would just be at home bored watching TV instead of doing fun things like crafts.”
“I’m thankful that we have had Banyan to guide us through this college process. We have never done this before, and don’t know anything about college or financial aid. It was good to know that our son had Banyan to help him understand things and explain the steps.”
“Banyan teaches you to stand up for what you know is right, to handle the situation in a respectful manner.”
“I give to Banyan because I know that my gift will go a long way both in impact with the community as well as effectiveness with a well-run organization.”