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Aviation Academy

Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays at the White Plains Youth Bureau.

Must be a White Plains resident and view 3 Youtube videos prior to visit. Call to make an appointment.

An application must be requested. Applications are not available online.

Aviation Academy

Capoeira

Come learn this Brazilian art form that combines martial arts, gymnastics, and dance all to music and drumming! 

Tuesday 4pm to 6:00pm at the Youth Bureau Fitness Room

Saturday 2pm to 4:00pm at the Youth Bureau Fitness Room

The program is free of charge to families in White Plains.

Students in 1st grade through 12th grade are all welcomed.

Applications are available at the Youth Bureau or downloaded by clicking the ‘REGISTRATION FORM’ button on this page.

You can also email Gina Covington at gcovington@whiteplainsny.gov for more information or to receive applications via email in English or Spanish. 

Clubmen Higher Aims

An after school program designed to help Middle through High School African-American and Latino male students achieve academic excellence and develop key life skills required to succeed. This is accomplished by providing academic support, mentoring and exposure to cultural, social, and leadership experiences.

Middle School: Monday through Friday from 2:45 – 5:45 PM at Highlands

High School: Monday through Thursday from 2:45 – 5:45 PM at White Plains High School

No fees are required for regular daily activities. Nominal fees may apply for some of the field trips.

Must be African-American or Latino Middle or High School male student. Must strive for excellence and maintain high academic standards and regular attendance. Must maintain a minimum grade point average of “C.” Strive to achieve honor roll status. Participate in group activities. Wear a shirt and tie on designated day(s). Learn to play the game of chess. Commit to program through 12th grade.

At this time applications for this program are through referral only. Space is limited.

Drum Corps

Students in grades 6-12 learn how to play the drums and participate in local parades and events. Whether you have been playing the drums for years or have never picked up a stick, we teach you everything you will need to know! Program is FREE and equipment is included.

Thursdays from 4pm – 5:30pm and Saturdays from 1pm – 2:30pm.

Middle School and High School students are welcome to participate. The Drum Corps performs in parades and in events.

Applications are available at the Youth Bureau or downloaded by clicking the ‘REGISTRATION FORM’ button on this page.

You can also email Gina Covington at gcovington@whiteplainsny.gov for more information or to receive applications via email in English or Spanish. 

Grandpas United

The mission of Grandpas UnitedTM is to give back to our White Plains community, connecting with and enriching the lives of White Plains youth aged 5-21. This intergenerational program provides informal group mentoring, one-on-one mentoring, ongoing activities and special events. Grandpas United also creates an environment to support Grandpas by sharing with one another their talents, skills and experiences to maintain their dignity, self-respect and self-worth.

Grandpas UnitedTM

Youth Court – Ongoing one-on-one mentoring. Monthly meetings with student leaders.
Grandpas Go To School – Elementary School monthly program
Coffee With Grandpas – monthly Grandpas meeting for community engagement and peer support.
Grandpas Go to Camp – annual visit to White Plains Summer Camp programs with entertainment.
Grandpas Got Talent – annual intergenerational talent showcase with White Plains high schoolers.

No. Participation is voluntary.

Youth do not need to apply.


Applications for Grandpas are available at the Youth Bureau.

Application forms are not available online at this time.

THE WORD #4 - Official News letter for Grandpas UnitedTM

Grandpa's United Event

Great Potential Program
White Plains High School

Two Mondays a month at 2:35 p.m. at WPHS

High school students typically get into the program by referral when they are in the 6th grade. They can sometimes also be added in high school if there is space. The student should be someone who can benefit from being a part of a group that is active. They should be in need of adult support meaning they may be struggling in school, not involved in many other programs, maybe lacking some motivation to do well. Not all students meet this criteria currently but they typically start out with some of the above issues. There is a mix of personalities in the program and everyone gets along and has fun. Students have to be willing to participate in group meetings and community service/educational activities.

No. Participation is voluntary.

If a current high school student wants to join, they would contact Sheila Foley at 914-422-1378 or be brought to a meeting by a current member. If space is available and the student is appropriate for the program, there is an application to complete and have signed by a parent.

Growing White Plains

A community agriculture project through which volunteers from White Plains and surrounding communities grow vegetables and herbs to be donated to the Ecumenical Emergency Food Pantry and other organizations helping to meet the food needs of residents of the City in need. Participants also learn about organic gardening and share healthy outdoor activity with friends and family.

Program operates during the garden growing season, from February through November at two community garden sites, on the grounds of New York Presbyterian Hospital near the Bryant Ave. gate, and at the Bethel Community Garden, corner of Prospect St. and Sterling Ave. There is also a greenhouse located behind the Ebersole Ice Rink.

To participate, register as a member of Growing White Plains by filling out a brief registration form and adding your name and e-mail address to the distribution list so we can let you know when garden activities take place. Volunteers are free to visit or work in the garden at any time it is convenient for them.

There is no charge for participation in Growing White Plains

A willing hand and heart. Registration for the program by filling out a brief registration form

No. This is a volunteer program. Participation is voluntary.

 At this time applications for this program are available only at the Youth Bureau.

Register by calling the White Plains Youth Bureau: (914) 422-1378 to obtain a registration form and add your name and e-mail address to the program e-mail list.

Greening Project

Healthy & Fit for Life Program

This program offers 3 components: Boxing – for ages 12 – 21 Karate – for elementary grades Personal training – ages 10 – 21 (younger children need to be assessed by coach and Program Director).

Free counseling is available for ages 6-21 and families.

Open Gym available Monday – Friday.

Personal Training: Mon/ Tues / Wed/ Thursday 3:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Boxing: Mon/ Tues / Wed/ Thursday 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
*Karate: (BEGINNERS) Wednesday and Friday  4:00 – 5:00; 
(ADVANCED) Wednesday and Friday  5:00 – 6:00; 

*Karate is taught by the Sensei Evelyn Schwartz

This program is FREE. Students are responsible for supplying personal equipment such as shin guards, mouth guards etc – and uniforms – list will be provided

No. Participation is voluntary.

Applications are available at the Youth Bureau or downloaded from this page.

Complete registration form signed by parent (parent signature required for youth under 18 years only). Students 18 and older must present a valid ID. 


Healthy & Fit for Life

Mayor's Youth Council

The goal of the Mayor’s Youth Council is to develop youth led activities that engage youth as leaders and decision makers.

The main target population is students that are on or above grade level. This is an extra-curricular activity that is meant to provide young people with additional opportunities and support to give them the skills they need to fully develop as leaders and decision makers. Students will have the opportunity in a non-instructional environment to develop the skills and attributes needed to be successful in life such as responsibility, integrity, critical thinking and problem solving skills. We will also focus on self-awareness, empathy, self-confidence, empowerment and self-advocacy and self-care.

The group meets bi-weekly in the evenings, 6:30 – 7:30 pm in the Youth Bureau Computer Room.

Must be a high school student and a White Plains resident.

No. Participation is voluntary.

At this time, applications for this program are available only at the Youth Bureau.

Youth Council

White Plains Youth Bureau Mentor Program

This is a community based Mentor Program. Mentors and mentees decide when and where they want to meet.

There is no fee for this program. Mentors are all volunteers.

Mentors have to complete the application process which includes an interview and background screening.

Mentees also have an application to complete as well as an interview.

Mentors have to be able to commit to meet with their mentee for about an hour and a half a week. Mentees have to be available and willing to meet with their mentor as well as participate in planning activities.

This a volunteer program. Participation is voluntary.

Applications are not available online. To apply, contact Sheila Foley at 914-422-1378.

Through a phone interview, it will be determined if the program is appropriate for those interested. If it is, an application will be emailed or mailed out to the applicants (mentor and mentee).

My Brother's Keeper

To find out more about My Brother’s Keeper download our 13 page brochure.

The MBK program is offered at various locations and times depending on the activity. Please sign up for our email to receive up to date information.

Call the Program Director – Ray Tribble at 914-422-1378 for information on how you (your child) can participate. 

PAHL - Peer Advocates for Healthy Living

The PAHL program aims to support and engage youth to develop behavior changes as it relates to living a healthy lifestyle.  The program incentives high school youth to become community leaders by mentoring younger peers.

Meetings are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-5PM at White Plains High School Room C106

This is a FREE program for all White Plains High School students

High School students (grades 9 – 12) have two options:

option 1: get community service hours by filling out a community service application

option 2: get paid.  Students  are required to fill out an employment application and provide with a valid work permit information. 

Students who are interested should complete the registration form on this page and drop off  to the Youth Bureau office @ 11 Amherst Place or drop off at the WPHS Cafeteria H.

Real G.I.R.L.S. Academy

REAL G.I.R.L.S. AcademyG=GRACE; I=INTELLIGENCE; R=RESPECT; L=LEADERSHIP; S=SKILLS

The Real Girls Academy offers STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and life skills training through instruction to the participants of the program that will meet for 25 Saturdays.  The aim of the program is to help the girls develop their interest in STEM, connect them with women who are successful, help them to develop competencies, skills and academic knowledge to pursue careers in high paying jobs and to teach them the core values, such as respect and integrity. Please Note: White Plains School District students are nominated by their school principal.

25 Saturdays during the school year starting in October: 10:00am – 2:00pm

This is a FREE program for eligible participants.

Students and parents MUST be committed to regular attendance. Parents must be required to support student’s academic, social, and emotional growth in partnership with the program coordinators. Students may be the first in their family to graduate high school or attend college. Student must demonstrate potential to achieve growth & excellence with support. Students in grades 5th – 12th may be accepted.

Youth are registered in cooperation with the White Plains School District. Parents who are interested in enrolling their child should contact their school counselor or Principal.

Real GIRLS Academy

READI - Job Skills Program...

The days and times will be decided once the youth are hired. Meetings will be at least 2 x week for 2 hours each. 

This is a FREE program for all eligible participants

High School students in grades 9 – 11 with a valid work permit. 

Must be vaccinated against COVID 19.

Yes. Hourly rate varies with the age of participant. 

Students who are interested should complete the registration form on this page and submit it to the Youth Bureau office in Cafeteria H and pick up an employment packet to complete. 

Saturday Academy (High School)

Saturday Academy for Boys logoThe High School Boys Saturday Academy is for high school boys in 9th – 11th grade.  It is held on Saturdays and runs from October through May. The program offers: College Tours, Career Readiness, PSAT/SAT Review, Home Work Assistance, Develop Good Academic Skills, and Leadership Skills. 
Contact: Raymond H. Tribble, rtribble@whiteplainsny.gov.

Saturdays from October through May.

Registration form can be  downloaded online.

Completed registration forms should be brought to the White Plains Youth Bureau, 11 Amherst Place, White Plains, between the hours (school year) of 10 am and 6 pm, Monday through Friday.

Lets Get Ready (LGR): SAT and College Prep Program

This program offers 3 components: Boxing – for ages 12 – 21 Karate – for elementary grades Personal training – ages 10 – 21 (younger children need to be assessed by coach and Program Director).

Tuesday & Thursdays from 5:45 – 9:00 PM (Mid June to Mid August) at Berkeley College. 3 to 4 Saturdays from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

$25 (Refunded if participant attends 75% of the classes).

Open to juniors and seniors who have qualifying financial need.

Register online at: www.letsgetready.org (applications usually available in April).

SAT Prep

Social Justice for Youth Program: Youth Court & Peer Advocacy

SOCIAL JUSTICE FOR YOUTHA real court run by trained high school youth who process real low level crime cases – peer court. The goal of Youth Court is to promote positive peer leadership and youth development amongst teens 13-18 years old

The Youth Court members recommend community service projects for juvenile delinquency cases referred to the program by the Westchester County Probation Department. Members earn community service hours, looks great on any college application, network with attorneys, judges and community leaders, gain valuable advocacy skills, improve public speaking and attend bonding field trips.

Training takes place during the Summer and Fall.

To join Youth Court, please see our application.

Varies Training for youth court officers in the summer – July/August.

Must be a White Plains resident. Youth Court leaders may be 9th – 12th graders.

Peer Advocacy – Girls only, ages 20-30 years old.

Peer Advocates only: $1,500 stipend per client served.

Youth Court leaders: Volunteers only; will receive community service credit.

Funded By

Step Up! for Boys

STEP UP! is a program that provides case management, counseling, and personal enrichment opportunities to young men who are struggling and potentially vulnerable to academic failure, future unemployment, family problems, and negative police interaction.

Monday – Friday during after school and late evening hours until 8pm.

This is a FREE program for eligible participants.

Program is open to all High School Boys. 

Regular attendance and participation in groups, trips, and social activities.

Registration process is in person Monday – Thursday between 4pm – 7pm by appointment only.

Applications are available at the Youth Bureau and on this page.

Summer garden volunteer internship Program

A six-week program for young people ages 16 years or older to volunteer in White Plains’ community gardens, learning about organic gardening and helping grow food for the needy in White Plains.

Four mornings a week for three hours each day for six weeks, from early July through early to mid August. Participants work at the two White Plains community gardens (at New York Presbyterian Hospital and at Prospect St. and Sterling Ave.) and the greenhouse at Delfino Park.

Some educational trips are also part of the program. Participants meet each morning of the program at the White Plains Youth Bureau, 11 Amherst Place and travel as a group to the work sites for the day.

Those interested need to fill out a registration form (requires parents’ signatures) which can be obtained at the White Plains Youth Bureau, 11 Amherst Place, White Plains. For more information, call the Growing White Plains program: 914-422-1378

No. Participation is voluntary.

At this time applications for this program are available only at the Youth Bureau.

Brief interview and registration materials to fill out at the White Plains Youth Bureau; call Growing White Plains, 914-422-1378 for information and registration.

Growing White Plains

Youth Employment Services

The Youth Employment Program provides youth ages 12 through 24 with opportunities to learn about the world of work through job training, life-skills development programs and full and part-time employment.

Job Fairs

Young MENtoring Group

Two Tuesday evenings a month from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the White Plains Youth Bureau.

Mentors have to be positive adult male role models willing to work in a group setting on Tuesday nights. An application and interview is required.

Mentees are typically recruited from the eighth grade guidance counselors. A few kids are added each year depending on the prior year’s number of graduates. The mentees have to be willing to work in a group setting and be willing to participate in the group process. This is a fun and informal mentoring program. Dinner is served at the beginning of the meeting.

No. All participants are volunteers.

The program supervisor meets with the referred students with the guidance counselor that referred them. At that time students are given the application if they are a good fit for the program.

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