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Talking with Bob Miner
The earliest incarnation of Jacob A. Riis Neighborhood Settlement was founded 128 years ago, and since then countless lives have been impacted by our work. Our legacy, like those of many settlement houses, is a rich tapestry woven together by people, events, stories, meanings, and memories - some of which, understandably, have faded with the passage of time. And yet, retaining a connection to our past is more than just an exercise in nostalgia. Knowing where we come from and acknowledging the contributions of those who came before us enables us to ground our work in something greater than the day-to-day minutia and helps to reaffirm our raison d'etre.

It is easy to gain hold of Riis' past when one speaks with Bob Miner (pictured above center). Bob is a former executive director of Riis Settlement (1960-1990), and a 96-year-old walking treasure trove of memories so sharp you might find yourself suspiciously wondering if his tales of yore actually happened just yesterday. We sat with him recently for a trip down memory lane that was both enlightening and inspiring. 

MORE NEWS
FROM RIIS SETTLEMENT
Books, Books, and More Books!
  
This summer, Riis Settlement partnered with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) for two book giveaway events as part of the national  Book-Rich Environment Initiative. The initiative, which was launched by the  National Book Foundation, the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Education, the Urban Libraries Council, and the Campaign for Grade Level Reading, seeks to eliminate "book deserts" across the nation by supplying books to public housing residents and increasing their access to high-quality literacy tools.

 

 Celebrating Riis Staff!

It is no great secret that those who work in the non-profit sector are often undercompensated for all their hard work and effort. For most of the individuals who enter the field, the driving motivation is rarely money. Rather it is the belief that by engaging in this work, one can make a real and meaningful difference in the lives of others. And that kind of commitment deserves highlighting.  In an effort to acknowledge and show appreciation for the dedication of our employees, Riis Settlement recently initiated an "Employee of the Month" program. Along with the accolade, each selected staff member receives a gift card and a chance to win a $1,000 bonus at the end of the year. 

Riis Youth
Visit Denmark
 
Now in its 12 th year, our Danish Cultural Exchange Program continues to honor our ties to the birth country of our founder, Jacob A. Riis, and continues to afford some of our young Riis Academy students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel abroad, explore a new culture, and gain a broader worldview.  This summer, six of our students departed New York City for what would be a very memorable trip. They were accompanied by Veronica Franklin, director of youth programs at Queensbridge, as well as Riis's newly elected board chair, Gordon Mehler.


UPCOMING EVENTS 

September 30, 2017
Saturday computer classes for our ESOL students begin
- 11:30AM-2:30PM



September 19, 2017 
Armondo's 2nd Annual Cabaret Night benefiting Riis Settlement
- 6PM-10PM


September 18-21, 2017 
Registration for our fall ESOL session
Sept 19 & 21 - 10AM @ Queensbridge Community Center
Sept 18 & 20 - 6PM @ IS 126