Health care experts tell us that play and activity can minimize a child's trauma due to illness and help them better cope with the stress of hospitalization.

This program was created to integrate hope and healing with music and entertainment for children who suffer from cancer. We visit the Ronald McDonald House of NYC on a monthly basis to encourage and entertain the children and their families before during and after cancer treatment. These begin with musical include performances by local artists complete with CD and toy giveaways! Charitable proceeds go toward the purchase CD's toys, books and games to be used on our visits.

Recent evidence has shown that children participating in after school programs earned higher grades and reading scores, adjusted better emotionally and developed healthier relationships with other children. Building blocks has been designed to offer participants opportunities to experience hands on, informal learning, not always available during the regular school day. Exposure to arts, dance, theatre, music, and computer technology help students to develop creative and analytical skills as well as self-confidence, self-esteem and collective responsibility. Involvement in after school programs introduces students to community involvement and participation and elevates career aspirations.

If we don't provide young people with some kind of sanctuary and give kids something constructive to do once the last bell rings, they are going to be easy marks for drug dealers and other predators-Colin Powell, Secretary Of State

A recent study found that Participation in after school programs has shown to reduce the incidences of youth crime.

Building Blocks is an after school program designed to build self-confidence, self -esteem and to introduce students to various art forms and art professionals. The creative curriculum includes a series of workshops on music & music production, drama, writing & poetry, filmmaking, editing, dance and performance that will enable students to create their own unique productions (i.e. short films, theatrical plays, talent showcases or music compilations) that highlight individual and collective talents. Literacy instruction includes poetry and creative writing, reading aloud, author studies, reader's workshops and creative dramatization with reflection and discussion. This program also introduces students to entrepreneurial alternatives, encourages and assists with internships in artistic fields of interest and promotes community involvement.

After school programs are win-win for both our children and society. They provide a safe haven where youth have a chance to enrich their lives. Academic and social programs support them as they fight the allure of drugs and criminal life, and help them to increase their self esteem.-Robert M Morgenthau, District Attorney, New York County

Students who spend time in unsupervised, unstructured environments run a higher risk for truancy, drug use, violence, and academic failure and other destructive behavior. This risk doubles for low-income children who oftentimes lack the social and emotional support needed to succeed.

While the demand is clear and the benefit great, quality after school programs remain extremely limited. Charitable proceeds go toward the purchase of equipment, computers, art supplies, books, and other program materials. Participation from established artists and creative professionals is desired and encouraged.

Building Blocks is an after school program designed to build self-confidence, self -esteem and to introduce students to various art forms and art professionals. The creative curriculum includes a series of workshops on music & music production, drama, writing & poetry, filmmaking, editing, dance and performance that will enable students to create their own unique productions (i.e. short films, theatrical plays, talent showcases or music compilations) that highlight individual and collective talents. Literacy instruction includes poetry and creative writing, reading aloud, author studies, reader's workshops and creative dramatization with reflection and discussion. This program also introduces students to entrepreneurial alternatives, encourages and assists with internships in artistic fields of interest and promotes community involvement. Some of our trademark programs include: Beauty Boot Camp: A Rites of Passage for Girls, Music Madness: An Entrepreneurial Entertainment Learning Program, Spoke 'n Heard Poetry Café and The Truth Group: A Theatrical and Performance troupe.

Venture ahead to the rest of the world through field trips to museums, forests and beaches, libraries and art galleries to gain new insights and fresh perspectives on art and culture. More than just an adventure, exploration combines discovery with spectacular itineraries and interesting companionship.

Better Youth, Inc is a 501(c)3 non profit organization recognized by the IRS.