Pictured Above: Horizons Academy students during an educational visit to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, where they explored the rich history of immigration, diversity, and opportunity that has shaped New York City and the nation.

The Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island (JCCGCI) is proud to recognize and thank The Pinkerton Foundation for its continued support of Horizons Academy through a generous $150,000 grant award. This marks the third consecutive year that The Pinkerton Foundation has invested in the program, helping JCCGCI expand opportunities for young people as they prepare for college, careers, and long-term success.

Horizons Academy is JCCGCI’s comprehensive youth workforce development and college preparation program, serving approximately 100 active high school students each year, while continuing to provide follow-up support to an additional 40 recent graduates as they transition into higher education, vocational training, and the workforce.

The program offers a wide range of services, including paid spring and fall internships, SAT and Kaplan preparation courses, college counseling, career readiness training, workforce development opportunities, academic support, financial literacy education, and one-on-one guidance from dedicated staff members. Through these efforts, Horizons Academy has achieved a remarkable 100% high school graduation rate, with approximately 85-90% of participants continuing on to post-secondary education or workforce opportunities after graduation.

One of Horizons Academy’s most remarkable achievements is its long-standing record of student success. Since 2013, the program has maintained a 100% high school graduation rate among participating students. This accomplishment is particularly significant given that many participants are identified by school administrators as being among those at the highest risk of dropping out. Through consistent mentorship, academic support, workforce development opportunities, and individualized guidance, Horizons Academy has helped students overcome barriers and stay on a path toward graduation and long-term success.

Private philanthropic support from The Pinkerton Foundation allows Horizons Academy to go beyond what government funding can provide. While public grants often come with specific restrictions, Pinkerton’s investment gives the program the flexibility to enhance educational programming, provide additional instructors, update technology, create meaningful internship opportunities, and offer enriching experiences that broaden students’ perspectives and aspirations.

Recently, Horizons Academy students participated in an educational trip to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, where they explored the history of immigration, diversity, and opportunity in New York City. The experience reinforced important lessons about perseverance, inclusion, and the many cultures that contribute to the city’s identity.

“We are incredibly grateful to The Pinkerton Foundation for their continued partnership and unwavering belief in our students,” said Marissa Sperling, Program Director of Horizons Academy. “Their support allows us to provide opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. From paid internships and college preparation to educational enrichment experiences that inspire our young people to dream bigger and achieve more. The Pinkerton Foundation’s investment is helping to shape the next generation of leaders, professionals, and community members.”

JCCGCI also extends its sincere appreciation to Laurie Dien, Vice President/Executive Director for Programs, and Erickson Blakney, Senior Program Officer at The Pinkerton Foundation, for their thoughtful partnership and engagement with Horizons Academy. Through their site visits and program evaluation efforts, they have demonstrated a deep commitment to understanding and supporting the needs of the young people we serve. Their guidance and continued confidence in Horizons Academy have played an important role in strengthening and expanding the program’s impact.

Over the years, Horizons Academy has served hundreds of young people from diverse backgrounds throughout Southern Brooklyn. By combining academic support, workforce development, mentorship, and long-term follow-up services, the program continues to empower students to overcome challenges and build successful futures.

JCCGCI extends its deepest appreciation to The Pinkerton Foundation for its ongoing commitment to youth development and educational opportunity. Through this continued partnership, Horizons Academy will be able to expand its impact and ensure that even more young people have access to the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive.

Horizons Academy is primarily funded by the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) through its Learn & Earn program. The program is also supported by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and The Pinkerton Foundation. JCCGCI extends its sincere gratitude to these funders for their continued commitment to empowering young people through education, workforce development, and career readiness opportunities.