Youth Programs

SOME HISTORY ON THE YOUTH PROGRAMS AT TSL

Young people are often the first to check out new things and the arrival of TSL into Hudson in 1991 was no exception. Neighborhood kids began to drop by to see what was going on at the big red brick building on Columbia Street, which for years had stood as a storage space. Soon enough, handing out peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to visiting children became part of TSL’s daily routine.

Gradually those afternoon snacks morphed into more directed efforts, often taking place out in the parking lot during beautiful Hudson River Valley summer weather. There was a weaving project led by New York artist Jun Maeda underneath a yurt he had constructed; there was a MussmannBruce original theater project, A Lincoln, about none other than the 16th president of the United States.

More visiting artists came, as well as other people who wanted to share in what they saw happening at TSL and how it was positively impacting the young people and families of this community. From 2001 to 2009, Maija Reed took on the role of TSL Youth Director and began to develop a series of programs that still resonate with many young people in Hudson. There were cooking and gardening, theater and circus performance, video, music, art and writing workshops. A tutoring program partnering with Bard College students began, and TSL helped facilitate field trips to NYC and elsewhere for children, some of whom had never been outside the City of Hudson. Another program was created that provided opportunities for children to attend summer camps.

TSL’s staff worked diligently to establish a relationship with each child and their families as programs were built and developed. Beginning at age 6 or 7, children could get involved in the Youth Programs and keep coming throughout their childhood. TSL remained a strong presence for many of them, creating programming and support as they became young adults - sometimes becoming interns in Youth Programs themselves. As they got older, TSL was there to help with job and life choices, including preparation for entry into college.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

During the months of Phase I construction, TSL temporarily re-located some of its programs to other venues in order to keep them running. For example, the TSL tutoring program has been hosted by the Hudson Library. Back at TSL, The College Prep program is going strong with guidance from Maija Reed and Bruce Naramore. When the doors to the renovated space open, we will welcome new coordinators who are excited to implement their programs. There is a lot to celebrate and many ideas to come.

TSL is continuing to seek matching funds for the original $122,500 appropriation and looking for funds to move into Phase II. Contributions have been committed to the project already, as well as work, time and material commitments from community members including plumber, George Ihlenburgh, electrician, David Gallardo, architect, Marilyn Kaplan, contractor and builder, Merlin Von Kriegenburgh, construction, Mike Meyers, concrete, Luke Schroeder and satellite installer, Jorge Lopez.

TSL welcomes the support of neighbors and community members as the project moves forward. Stop by for a tour. Help spread the word about the matching funds drive. Help TSL realize the completion of this space, insuring that the TSL Youth Programs continue to play a vital role in the lives of Hudson's young people.

Upcoming Youth Events

Youth Program: Multi-Media Arts Program

TSL is offering a Multi-Media Arts Program, especially designed for ages 12 through 16. Adults and youth of other ages will also be considered on an individual basis. The workshop will meet on Wednesdays from 3:30-6:00pm from February through May.

During this series of multi-media art workshops, students will explore video, sound, projection, story telling and live performance. Facilitated by multi-disciplinary artists Ryder Cooley and Moriah Halevi, students will be encouraged to combine media and to work collaboratively. The program will culminate with a final group project and public presentation in late spring. Guest artists will be invited to host workshops and projects throughout the semester.

The program of 15 sessions costs $100 -150 and scholarships will be made available for those who could otherwise not participate. For information & registration contact anya@timeandspace.org or call 518-822-8448.

Live Music (Youth): Dog on Fleas

Dog on Fleas has been recording and performing music for young children for 10 years. Their 5 critically acclaimed CDs are among the best children's music CDs available. Whether you're looking for little children's dance music, a touch of folk, or some really inventive and inspiring music for young children, Dog on Fleas is your band. They often defies categorization, but kids don't give a hoot about that. They will dance and sing along, or be inspired to listen deeply to the thoughtful lyrics.

Youth Program: Juniors College Prep Workshop With Bruce Naramore

Join college counselor Bruce Naramore for a workshop on everything you need to know to get on the college track and be prepared. For high school juniors.

United Way of Columbia & Greene Counties, Inc. supports TSL 2010 Youth Programs and Workshops