Project Community Welcomes
New Project CHILDD Director and Programs

Project Community kicks off 2022 with a new Director and new programs for Project CHILDD (Community Help In Learning about Developmental Disabilities), and Teen Project CHILDD, their free, in-person community programs for children and youth with special needs. These programs are supervised by registered nurses and volunteer teen mentors, and are held at three locations: Pelham Art Center, Pelham Town House, and The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in the Bronx.

Project CHILDD (ages 3-18) meets at the Pelham Art Center and The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, where creative art projects are led by local artists. The program supports therapeutic expression and builds self-esteem. Activities vary by location, and have included yoga and movement classes provided by David and Carolyn Frost and family, owners of Balance Yoga & Wellness Studio, and dance classes provided by the Steffi Nossen School of Dance. 

Teen Project CHILDD (ages 13-19) meets at the Pelham Town House for Friday night movies, pizza, and socialization opportunities. The program encourages age-important interactions and builds self-esteem, while also supporting independence. These teen nights help participants form new friendships and are a BIG hit!

Teen Mentors: Project Community was excited to welcome back local teen volunteer mentors last fall, who are integral to the success of their programs, and looks forward to involving even more volunteers this year. Teen mentors play a critical role in both Project CHILDD and Teen Project CHILDD. These programs provide them with an opportunity to volunteer in their community, increase their social sensitivity, and make new, differently-abled friends.

Holiday Bowling Party: Last December, Project CHILDD was again able to host one of their main events – the Annual Holiday Bowling Party – held at the Pelham Country Club. Participants and their families look forward to this celebration every year, where they come together to enjoy a special evening of food, family, friends, and fun. It was a long awaited reunion that was fun for all. 

Meet Camille Drago, Director – Pelham

Camille Drago RN, (photo on the left) a longtime member of Project Community, is the newest Director of Project CHILDD’s Pelham programs. She is looking forward to this year’s coming events and is eager to welcome more children and youth to participate in their programs. She says, “I hope all can come and support our much needed programs for these very special children and families.” Camille can be reached via email at Cdrago.projectchildd@gmail.com.

 All programs are provided free of charge. Donations in any amount are greatly appreciated and help keep our programs running. Visit ProjectCommunity.us for more detailed program information, including registration forms for participants and teen mentors.