History

Founded by PS 3 parents in the 1980s, our afterschool program has been an integral part of the West Village community for the past four decades, running continuously since its inception. When it first started, day-to-day affairs and classes were run by parent volunteers. Gradually, as the school population expanded, professionally trained staff and specialists were hired to help meet the growing need for services. As the 1990s drew to a close, it became increasingly clear that the complexities involved with running a large afterschool program would require a more effective organization to manage dedicated, professional services.

To this end, PS 3 ’til 6 Afterschool was re-organized in 2001 as an independent not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation with its own bylaws and Board of Directors. The Board has always been composed of parent-volunteers with fiduciary responsibility for the organization’s financial health and stability. With deep ties to the community, and unwavering commitment to high quality enrichment, board members have provided invaluable support, steering the organization through many challenges, including the devastating crisis brought on by the Covid pandemic. The strong sense of loyalty that drives the leadership extends to afterschool alumni, who often return to fulfill their high school community service requirements, as well as families who contribute time and energy to support our efforts long after their children have graduated.

In recent years, under the Village Kids banner, our services have expanded to meet the needs and aspirations of a changing community. In addition to afterschool programming, we also organize seasonal chess and tennis tournaments, exciting field trips, and a robust day camp program. By forging ties with numerous organizations across the city, we provide a rich, innovative curriculum that includes a great variety of specialized workshops. Our programs are fully licensed and professionally managed and serve hundreds of children annually.