Children of recently-arrived immigrant families from the republics of the former Soviet Union face unique challenges. The difficult acculturation process alienates many of these children from positive life values and choices. Parents often work long hours in an effort to make ends meet and as a result finances often take precedence over involvement with their children's lives. Youth are left to their own devices during spare time and, living in disadvantaged, indigent, high-crime neighborhoods, these students bond with peers who present an enticing street culture which can quickly lead to dropping out of school and, eventually, to criminal activity.

JCCGCI's before- and after-school program, Keep It Up, works with over 200 low-income, disadvantaged middle-level and high school students attending The Queens Gymnasia in the Elmhurst section of Queens and Be'er Hagolah Institute in the Starrett City section of Brooklyn and their families. The program provides a variety of age-appropriate activities and services to engage participants in constructive activities in a positive environment before and after school, including, but not limited to, remedial education, academic enrichment, arts and recreational activities, discussion groups including violence prevention programs, counseling, nutrition education and nutritious meals and snacks and program weekends and overnights.

Students are provided with the opportunity to suggest and create their own after-school itineraries and have a direct involvement in program creation and evaluation through a Youth Council elected every quarter and periodic surveys circulated throughout the program participants.

Keep It Up includes programs for parents as well, such as English literacy and basic life skills, parenting workshops and student/parent game sessions integrating youth and families in a relaxing yet constructive  atmosphere.. Parents and families are encouraged to participate as well, through parent sessions, volunteer positions, and their constantly requested input via periodic surveys and interviews.

 Operated by the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island, the Keep It Up program is funded by the New York State Department of Education.