In the middle of New York City sits an unexpected sight: a boathouse; and inside is an unexpected group of rowers: middle and high schoolers from across the city’s fragile communities. Every year, in this place, thousands of kids show up to find something in themselves — whether strength, confidence, discipline, or community — that can make a difference in their lives.
Row New York is one of the most successful after-school programs in the city: 100% of its students graduate high school (on time or better), and 96% will go on to college. Rowing offers them a chance to engage in challenging work in a constructive way, and its students take that experience with them to their schoolwork and throughout their lives.