Avenues for Justice Hosts Two Community Celebrations As We Close Out Our Summer!

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At Avenues for Justice (AFJ), community is an important component of our fabric and instrumental in how we provide services to our Participants. Over the summer, our extended AFJ community came together in powerful ways; centering around the young people we serve, their families, along with our neighbors, in an activation of community, hope, and equity.

‍Summer on the Avenue: A Celebration of AFJ’s History

On August 21st, “Avenues for Justice Way” (Avenue B between E 6th and 7th Streets) came alive as we hosted our inaugural “Summer on the Avenue” Street Fair in partnership with Assembly Member Harvey Epstein and District 74. Together, we celebrated AFJ’s 40-year legacy at our flagship 100 Avenue B center; the location where our impact began and where thousands of young adults have found mentorship and support. What made this day special wasn’t just the festivities; it was the sense of belonging. Our Participants, their families, alumni, neighbors, and community partners danced to music provided by DJ A Wobbz. Attendees enjoyed hip-hop dance performances by Elevé Dance Theater, along with delicious food from AFJ HIRE Up partners Chef Quie and Chef Gabriel of Charles Pan-Fried Chicken.

The street fair doubled as a resource hub for our Participants with organizations like REFORM Alliance, the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, the Department of Youth and Community Services (DYCD), and NYC Small Business Services hosting tables with resources readily accessible. Participants also enjoyed action stations with activities for everyone, including face painting, haircuts, hair braiding stations, and Participant-created custom sneaker displays–all in celebration of the community that has always shown up for AFJ.

‍Honoring a Community Champion

The highlight of the event was when Assembly Member Harvey Epstein, along with AFJ’s Executive Director Liz Frederick, presented a special Proclamation to AFJ’s Senior Court Advocate, Nelson Valentine, honoring his three decades of service to NYC’s justice-impacted youth and LES community.

“Nelson has truly been such a leader and inspiration to this community. He has done so much, from something as simple as being a gardener, to doing social justice work in this neighborhood, and caring deeply about every one of our community members. On behalf of the state of New York, this proclamation honors Nelson because of who he is and what he does, every single day.” ~Assembly Member Harvey Epstein

"This year’s fair was truly a celebration of AFJ and Nelson’s contribution to our mission and Loisaida. We're so proud of Nelson, our neighbors, community partners, allies, and of what we've built together for 40 years in the Lower East Side.” ~AFJ Executive Director Liz Frederick

Nelson’s recognition is a reminder that real change happens through continuous commitment, accountability, and advocacy so that our young people can build meaningful futures and avoid incarceration.

‍Bear Mountain State Park: An Annual Tradition of Community and Fresh Air

The celebration didn’t end with the Street Fair. The following week, AFJ hosted our annual Bear Mountain State Park trip, now in its 30th year. Each summer, this trip gives our Participants, their families, alumni, and staff the opportunity to travel outside of the bustling city to enjoy nature.

This year, more than 30 members of the AFJ community joined us for a day filled with swimming, hiking, and connection. Despite cooler temperatures, nearly everyone took a dip in the pool, while a smaller group, led by AFJ Participant Cameron, a Bear Mountain veteran, made the trek up to the top of the mountain. This was Cameron’s fourth AFJ Bear Mountain trip and his third time up on the hike. His initiative is a perfect example of how our Participants grow into leaders amongst their peers.

As always, the day included a delicious barbecue, catered by HIRE Up partner, Chef Yaya of KDs Comfort Foods. And in true AFJ spirit, extra food was shared with another NYC nonprofit group enjoying their own trip a few picnic tables away. Before heading home, Participants packed to-go boxes to enjoy with their family members who couldn’t make it.

“Bear Mountain was amazing! The pool had a diving board, and it was my first time using one. The hike was also a big highlight!” ~AFJ Participant Max

“It’s important to do this trip because a lot of our Participants don’t get the opportunity to leave the city during the summer or any time of the year. It’s a break from the chaos of their neighborhoods and helps them find calm. It’s also a great opportunity to bond with other Participants in the program and staff. Bear Mountain is all fun and no business. We’re not talking about a court case or the program. It’s an opportunity for a kid to be a kid.” ~AFJ Court Advocate Julia Price

‍Looking Ahead To the Fall

Thanks to our supporters, partners, and neighbors, this summer was filled with moments which underscore AFJ’s values of building bridges, creating access, and celebrating the strength and resilience of our young people.

As we head into the Fall, we’re excited for what’s next, including our 2025 Impact Awards Dinner on October 23rd. We hope that you will join us as we celebrate Program Graduate Katherine Estrella and honor legendary Artist, DJ & Mental Health Advocate, Derrick “D-Nice” Jones.