For One In New York has partnered with Forestdale for its first initiative: Culture For One.  For One in New York, a small grass-roots charity, brings youth in care to cultural events in Manhattan.

“Our community’s children in foster care – so often overlooked – have exceptionally challenging lives,” said Linn Tanzman, Director of For One in New York. “I have learned that exposing the children to broader possibilities through culture offers priceless sources of inspiration and motivation.”

The Culture for One program brings a single child, or small group of children at a time to Manhattan to see a show, attend a music or dance performance, or tour an institution or company involved with culture. Foster and birth parents often accompany the youth to the events to promote a more unified bond. The program’s mission is to enable children to find inspiration for future aspirations from the arts.  

Anstiss Agnew, Forestdale’s Executive Director, explains the children’s need for art this way: “Exposure to culture is one of the keys that assure a strong, successful transition to adulthood.”  

A For One In New York volunteer accompanies the children (along with a Forestdale supervisor) and provides important, undivided attention, warmth and concern. Each child is treated to a fun meal or snack and their choice of an event souvenir.

For more information on how to support this program, please contact the Community Development Department at developmet@forestdaleinc.org or 718-263-0740.