FAMILY ENRICHMENT
CENTER
Fully operated by local organizations known for their knowledge of the community, the Centers are places of creativity and hope. Guided by the belief that parents and other community members are the experts in their lives, the Centers foster conditions that help all family members be their best selves.
WHO WE ARE
East Side S.O.U.L opened its doors on June 17, 2023.Fully operated by local members known for their knowledge of the community, the center is a place of creativity and hope. Guided by the belief that parents and other community members are the experts in their lives, the Center fosters conditions that help all family members be their best selves. Based on the co-design approach that encourages community ownership,respect, and equity. A successful Center helps to lift up the enormous strengths in each child, youth, and adult who walks through its doors and supports healthy family functioning.

BECOME A MEMBER
The Centers collaborate with community partners and agencies to bring in resources based on the desires of the community. This ensures that resources are within easy reach for all community members. Offerings change as the community’s interests change and the advisory group helps the staff make decisions.
OFFERINGS AT EAST SIDE S.O.U.L.
It is shaped by Strengthening Families, a family protective factors approach created by the Center for the Study of Social Policy. The early success of the FECs has been mainly due to the dedication and resilience of community members who view the Center staff as their extended family and the FEC as their second home.

FAMILY & PARENTING SUPPORT
- Parent Cafés sessions for open, judgment-free conversations
- Parenting workshops and peer support groups
- Family game nights and bonding activities
- Child development resources
- Fatherhood engagement programs

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
- Mental health awareness trainings and workshops
- Wellness check-ins and emotional support groups
- Yoga, meditation, and stress relief sessions
- Healing circles and trauma-informed care resources

COMMUNITY CONNECTION & SOCIAL EVENTS
- Community dinners and potlucks
- Cultural celebrations and holiday events
- Support circles and healing spaces
- Storytelling nights and open mics

CREATIVE EXPRESSION
- Art therapy, crafts, and DIY workshops
- Dance, music, and creative movement classes
- Gardening and nature-based activities

LEARNING & LIFE SKILLS
- Financial literacy and budgeting classes
- Cooking and nutrition workshops
- Computer literacy and tech help
- English language conversation groups

WORKFORCE & CAREER SUPPORT
- Resume building and job search assistance
- Interview prep and professional development
- Entrepreneurship and small business workshops

MUTUAL AID & RESOURCE
- Community Closet (free clothing, household goods, etc.)
- Food and essentials distribution
- Referrals to housing, legal aid, and health services

YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS
- Mentorship and leadership opportunities
- Creative arts
- Teen Cafes
Events
Our hours are as follows daily
(Mon–Fri) @ 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Saturdays based off community need and any weekend event the FEC will open
- Parent Café – Once Every Month
- Crochet Mondays 10am-12pm
- Embroidery Wed and Fridays, 10am-12pm
- Community Closet Pop-Up- Every Tuesday Walk in 11-1pm or by appt.
- Seasonal / Annual Events
- Back-to-School Supply Giveaway – August
- Holiday Celebrations (e.g. Thanksgiving, Holiday) – November & December
- Family Field Trips / Outdoor Events – Spring & Summer
- Community Planning PAC Council & Listening Sessions – Monthly & Quarterly
WHAT TO EXPECT
Using a strength-based approach to community planning, Centers use empowering questions to guide a fun and engaging collaborative process. Spaces are bright (in both color and energy), warm, and inviting, where all are welcomed to participate in any of the following:
– Meet neighbors
– Co-facilitate groups
– Pick up or drop off a donation
– Call or text about a family issue or need
– Socialize over a meal
– Build knowledge or a skill
– Join a virtual meeting or discussion
– Help plan, organize, or lead an event
– Sit, reflect, and relax
– Participate in a range of fun, family- and community-centered activities
– Learn or share about community programs and resources
WHAT TO KNOW
The Centers collaborate with community partners and agencies to bring in resources based on the desires of the community. This ensures that resources are within easy reach for all community members. Offerings change as the community’s interests change and the advisory group helps the staff make decisions. While feedback is asked for and recommended, there is no requirement that community members of an FEC pay a fee or give any personal or identifying information. Days and hours are based on community preference and confidentially is respected.
- All services, programs, and events at the Family Enrichment Center are completely free.
- No registration or sign-in is required.
- We are a walk-in, open-door space come as you are, when you can.
- There are no Eligibility Requirements.
- No referrals, documentation, or eligibility requirements needed.
- Everyone is welcome children, parents, caregivers, grandparents, neighbors, and friends. Whether you’re looking for support, connection, or just a place to be this is your space.
CONTACT US
Reach out if you have questions or want to get involved as a volunteer or partner.
LOCATION
Family Enrichment Center
East Side S.O.U.L
(Safe Oasis United by Love)
71 East 111th Street First floor
New York, NY 10029
HOURS
Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm
CALL
Call: 929-633-0335/0336
Center Direct Phone Number: 315-616-6881 EXT 21109
FOLLOW US
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