A true East Village gem Long may it live and prosper. The downstairs rental space is very…read moreaffordable and beautiful, and in keeping with the entire ethos of the Center and its director. I haven't tried the cafe but I'm sure it's great.

Lovely place with great arts programming throughout the week, community food distribution, and a…read moreSoul cafe that serves organic food. Awesome place!!

Very respectable here ! Very clean and honest people working here! They have 3 feeding times listed…read moreand dinner is at 5:30 pm , they have table seating inside ..

But for the grace of God go any of us. The blood red doors, blood red, it's said, for a reason…read more The firm I joined early two years back now volunteers. That meant a great deal to me but I never had found the time to go. Today I found that time. One reason I went was in direct response to the SNAP benefits cruel debacle. This, I thought was better than marching - walking beside and offering a helping hand. Mercy, empathy and compassion are the marrow in the national spine - the international backbone. What was to have been an act of personal protest morphed into something unexpectedly different. We've become an outwardly more calloused land of late, where selfishness and insensitivity are worn like badges of honor. They're not; they're a stain on our image to the world - worse: to ourselves. I didn't do much day except hand out chips and offer supportive subtle enthusiasm. No one will remember me nor should they - I was fortunate enough to arrive and depart as a day tripper. But it's the faces that haunted me. You never knew what lead each man and woman there or what their fate would ultimately be. Yet here we were. Crossing fates in the same hall. And there was this unspeakably overwhelming sense as nearly two hundred hungry souls filed by us as we doled out chips and hot dogs and apples that we the dilettantes were happy to do. I felt we stood at the edge of a vast sea of unknowable suffering - that our few hours were a drop of living kindness, as the Buddhists call it, in this sea that's always threatened to drown the world. I can't put my finger on this sense of today except to say I'll return to learn perhaps a greater understanding. And the staff. They reminded me of that humbled awe I felt for 9/11 and covid first responders. I may not change a single life for the better except mine handing out child but I know that offering a helping hand to those struggling in need is what defines humanity and defies inhumanity. I'm grateful I experienced this. And even catching the glimpse of so many as they passed was a bracing wake up call to what's really going on. Thank you.

Jeff is the real deal - the man is in the trenches confronting the most horrific cruelty and…read morerefusing to turn away. Those of us who support Jeff understand that extraordinarily few people could undertake this kind of rescue effort under the most dire of circumstances and maintain their sanity. But Jeff emerges intact and more committed than ever to ending the dog-meat trade once and for all. He is made of better stuff, as is his team. Not all heroes wear capes.

Our family adopted a dog from one of NDLB's Chinese Sanctuaries in East Asia 7 months ago. I have…read morenothing but praise for all of the staff encountered throughout our adoption process, (which from start to finish took a little more than three months). NDLB is an incredible 501(c) (3) non-profit and their global mission of rescuing dogs and cats from immense suffering and complete abandonment, along with their exceptional care and concern for each survivor (no matter the gravity of each animal's injuries), is nothing short of outstanding. The dog we happened to adopt is a Japanese Akita Inu and happens to go by the name Romeo because he happened to be saved from slaughter on Valentine's Day (on February 14, 2020). The founder of NDLB , Jeff Beri, and his crew actually risked their lives twice to save our dog. Once (due to the strict Covid-19 Restrictions in China at that time and a second time to challenge the people who were about to slaughter him). I personally found all of the NDLB staff I interfaced with during the adoption process very personable and easy to connect with. More importantly, I found the staff demonstrated great care and concern for their animals throughout the adoption process. While waiting for Romeo's freedom flight to New York, we received multiple videos and photo's along with ongoing communication from the NDLB Chinese staff who were with him daily. The New York staff made sure I (along with my husband), understood all the possible challenges that came with adopting a dog from overseas and wanted to make sure we were up for this type of challenge. All I can say is Romeo has completely changed our family's life. Our family over the years has had three dogs. Romeo was our first overseas adoption, by far, he is the most considerate dog we have ever had the pleasure of owning, and is always looking out for our well-being. One last positive has been, over the past months, being able to maintain on going contact with Romeo's team in China, and being able to send photos and videos of him here having all sorts of fun in the USA. (See Romeo enjoying sunbathing below).

With 7 regular courts and 1 court, the Open Squash FiDi location allows Open Squash to exemplify…read morethe word "open" further, and host more activities such as tournaments, camps, and special events. Cost: Open Squash FiDi has a special program for newcomers. If you are interested in playing the sport, Open Squash will make it happen. Open Squash FiDi has the best coaches. Here are some of the coaches I have taken lessons from. Amr: Amr is known for his precision; he can direct the ball to any spot on the court he desires. His remarkable skills extend beyond the game, as he can shape any person into the squash player they aspire to be. He focuses on teaching you how to utilize your strengths while simultaneously transforming your weaknesses into strengths. As the former Egyptian National Coach from 2017 to 2023, Amr introduced Egyptian training methods to Open Squash. I have witnessed significant improvements in our juniors' squash skills under his guidance. More importantly, Amr also plays a vital role in helping juniors build their character. I recall an instance when a younger player, around 13 or 14 years old, was practicing with two older juniors, aged around 17 or 18. She appeared a bit frustrated during the drill. As soon as she stepped off the court, Amr praised her swing and noted some positive changes she had made. That encouragement brought a big smile to her face. She is not only learning how to play squash from Amr but also how to care for others, thanks to his example.  Amr is more than just a fantastic coach; he is an exceptional person, living up to his nickname, "Baby Legend." Adel: Adel is like "a good friend you can always count on," especially when it comes to women playing squash. She has a deep understanding of women's bodies and the changes they go through over time, such as during their menstrual cycle, childbirth, and aging. Adel is dedicated to helping women excel at squash by offering modified training and routines that strengthen their skills. Her coaching abilities extend beyond just women; I often see her interacting with junior players, adjusting their form, and creating an environment where they can genuinely enjoy the game. I also observe her training male players to help them achieve their goals in her clinics. Adel believes that everyone has their unique path, and she is committed to helping each individual become the best squash player they can be. Ciara: Ciara is the women's community manager who is dedicated to increasing access for women in squash. She often gathers ideas from members and designs various programs such as "Queen of the Courts" and "Women Only Camp." Her efforts make many women feel comfortable participating in Open Squash. Ciara is an energetic, fun, and compassionate coach, exceptionally skilled at working with young children. I often see kids gathering around her, hugging her, and treating her like a big Barbie doll. Despite the affection they show, the kids also respect her authority. On one occasion, I witnessed her discipline a child, calmly explaining the correct behavior. Her firm yet kind approach makes her the perfect coach for all young kids. Habiba: Habiba is known as the "Torture Queen." She pushes us to our limits during training sessions, leaving our bodies exhausted, yet we can't help but want to return for more. As our 3.0 team coach, she is dedicated to improving the squash skills of all team members. She frequently discusses the adjustments she plans to make and the areas she wants us to focus on, ensuring that we maximize our learning experience. One time, I received a text message from her at 10 PM asking for input on the proper training content for us. Yes, at 10 PM, she was still thinking about how to help her students. Talk about dedication! A former World Junior Champion, Habiba has brought her training methods from Egypt to our program. She trains multiple junior players and is especially recognized for teaching deceptive plays and advanced squash techniques. She closely monitors all her juniors and once told me that if they do not practice and follow the assignments, she will drop them from her program. She exemplifies "tough love." Despite the intensity of her training, both adults and juniors find her incredibly popular. I often see her joking with adult members while juniors eagerly gather around her. Everyone can feel her sincerity and genuine care for our improvement. We all appreciate her "torture" and "tough love". Open Squash FiDi has invited top college coaches and players, including Nouran Gohar, Gina Kennedy, Victor Crouin, and Hannah Craig, to host summer camps. In addition to the kids' camps, Open Squash FiDi also offers adult camps with top pros as well as an all-women's camp. If you are thinking of practicing a sport, squash is a great choice, and Open Squash FiDi is the best place to start. If you have already played squash, Open Squash FiDi can be your new home.

I wanted to learn how to play Squash and had a great experience with my first class at Open Squash…read morein Fidi. The facilities were high quality and staff were very welcoming. I live closer to the Bryant Park location, but given the small class size, the classes book up fast. You can book your first class for free (usually $25) and they have a lot of clinics and classes available. I did an introductory clinic and there were only two other participants! Our instructor Habiba Mohamed was awesome - former professional and collegiate Squash player just casually teaching amateurs like us. She taught us the rules, how to hit forehand and backhand, did some drills, and provided feedback. I had such a fun experience, it was exciting and fast paced! I can't wait to play again!

I got my girls Yoko and Elsie from the rescue. I personally went through the adoption process with…read moreAlessandra and Michelle, both volunteers. It was an easy process and they made sure i had everything ready for the buns. Really thankful to Alessandra that helped me bonding my babies

My partner and I are so happy with our adorable new bunny, thanks to Vivian's support and guidance…read morefrom the fostering through adoption process. AARR cares about its rabbits and does excellent due diligence to make sure that every rabbit is being placed in a proper home that has the resources to care for an animal for the duration of its lifetime. Vivian not only was an excellent communicator, but extremely helpful in making sure our foster got the medical care he needed up until we adopted him. We highly recommend AARR to anyone looking to adopt a bunny, especially in the NYC area. Thanks again!

I was told on the phone they do not accept used clothing because the ladies would not wear them,…read morebut they would accept name brand and new clothing. Another time I was told that they don't have space. So they have space for new, name brand clothing but not for gently used? Doesn't make sense and something about this is really disturbing. Spin it any way you choose but it feels wrong. I donated everything to another pantry in Brooklyn and everything thing, shoes, clothing, bags, coats was gone in 30 minutes. I also had my daughter pack up all her gently used clothing, teaching her to help those in need but she learned another lesson and I will leave it there.

What an amazing time I had here today helping CHIPS to serve the community..... it was exactly…read morewhere I needed to be today. I absolutely LOVE to help others so this was definitely my kind of party. The staff was very friendly and nice. To be quite honest, I've never even heard of this place before this event but I'm so glad that I know about it now. I will definitely be back in the near future to volunteer again. CHIPS houses 9 young women who must be 21 years old and over and pregnant in their third trimester and allows them to have a place to stay for one year. They must go back to school and participate with in-house activities. CHIPS offers so much more programs as well. I spoke with Denise who is the executive director about the possibility of me coming back to volunteer with my church and she said that it was fine but I would have to participate in a training class which takes place the second Thursday of each month at 9 am and the last Thursday of the month at 6pm. I had a great time volunteering alongside my fellow Yelpers Peter D, William K, Aura B and Steven S. I'm looking forward to more opportunities like this in the future. Special thanks to Peter D for putting this together and allowing us to give back to the community. Life isn't just about receiving but also giving.

Why wouldn't you give this awesome non profit 5 stars?…read more I heard about project sunshine many years ago but, I just recently joined there team of volunteers and I must say they are a great organization to volunteer for. Once you sign up to enter orientation they send you an email where to go to attend the orientation. They then teach you the basics of whats expected of you as a volunteer. They give you a free yellow shirt when you join in order to volunteer you must wear it and support the great cause. All the staff is very sweet and kind. There is no "must" volunteer a certain number of hours as its more so a volunteer when you want type of thing but there are people of all different ages, occupations and backgrounds who join together for one cause which is project sunshine's objective... providing free educational, recreational, and social programs to children and families living with medical challenges. Its an awesome non-profit organization. They send weekly newsletters about volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are the heart of the organizations so why not get involved??

To have the opportunity to celebrate Mardi Gras under the fine exquisite hospitality of Alex and…read moreMiles Pincus of the wonderful Crew team, plus add the perfect setting of the James Beard Foundation at Pier 57, one couldn't ask for more of a truly genuine sublime experience. From the beginning of passed Hors d'oeuvres, whilst imbibing potent libations. Put on your Mardi Gras beads and listen to the band playing! Seated at the sumptuous 3 course dinner, a menu with much acclaim. In the end we were looking for the baby in our King Cakes. Pray tell, mon chéri Laissez les bon temps rouler Wishing you y'all a very happy Valentine's, President's weekend, followed by a tremendous Mardi Gras (aka "Fat Tuesday"). Merci beaucoup! Looking forward to next year's celebrations already.

What an incredible experience. Once you try dinner here once, you'll be hooked for more…read more James Beard is known as the first "foodie" in America who championed American cuisine, and inspired a new generation of chefs. Now his heritage lives on in this very house hosting chefs from around the globe, and the James Beard Awards aka the Oscars of the culinary world. It's an incredible honor to be invited as a chef here, and the menu obviously varies based on the chef, specialties, type of cuisine, but the calibre and nature of the event really blew me away. The opportunity to have a personalized meal from a chef, his/her favorite dishes, and the story behind the chef is special and unmatched. I was really impressed by the quality of the food, wine pairings, and the unparalleled dining experience from the moment you walk in. A few things to keep in mind for first-time visitors: 1. You can go upstairs to your table even during champagne & appetizers. It can get kind of crowded so I would actually recommend going up sooner rather than later. 2. Come with a friend who you can talk to for hours on end, and truly enjoy the meal together from start to finish. Be prepared for 3+ hours for food, LOTS of drinking, and conversation. 3. Keep an open mind, take in the entire experience, and try everything. Also, join the JB Foundation if you haven't already. Looking forward to many more meals in this amazing establishment!

Henry Street Settlement is definitely a Five Star non-profit with a long history. It was founded…read moreunder the name Nurses' Settlement in 1893 by progressive reformer and nurse Lillian Wald. What's more the building is a United States and a New York Historic Landmark. It's been many years since I was there although I've been nearby. The next time I'm in the neighborhood I'll definitely take photos of the building inside and outside. The volunteer opportunities are numerous. I'm not looking for volunteer work these days but I recommend you contact the Henry Street Settlement if volunteering at this location is convenient for you. For me it's not convenient now that I've moved much farther in Uptown Manhattan.

This review is based on a tour of their main building and exhibition. The institution is a social…read moreagency that does so much today for the community of the Lower East Side, and I feel seeing the exhibition they put together really help visitors and attendees of their programs contextualize and understand the purpose of the place, since day one. The exhibit is free, open Monday-Friday, and it's accessible from one of their main building. It's not really big, but it's full of information, photographs, videos and a few objects. It's fascinating to see place and people in the same buildings 100 years ago, and what was around then. The tour guide is also really incredibly resourceful and interesting. A really amazing place.

The Robin Hood Foundation is as good as it gets! They contribute 100% of the moneys donated to…read morehungry New Yorkers. I used to go to the shelters and donate food and clothing items myself. Now that I am unable to do so, I can feel confident that my donations go towards the same with out the operating costs, which I would still be delighted to contribute to because they are soooo great! It's only a few dollars to buy someone a meal, please do so by checking out their site! They're amazing!