Our Impact Our Advocacy

Scroll down to learn more about how Educational Alliance advocates for our community and empowers New Yorkers of all ages and backgrounds.

Educational Alliance on PIX11 News:

PIX11 News: Tap Dance Class Brings Generations Together in New York City

PIX11 News reporter Monica Morales recently interviewed Educational Alliance’s Cory Michael Herman (Artistic Director of Older Adult Programs), our teaching artist Demetra Tsantes, and two members of our one-of-a-kind intergenerational tap class.

Click here to learn how our Ageless Arts programs build bridges, defy age, and unify generations.

Op-Eds From Our Leadership Team

  • Daily News Op-Ed: Americans Can Use a Settlement House Renaissance

    Educational Alliance President & CEO Rich Baum explains the importance of settlement houses right now and how they provide opportunities for communities to thrive. Learn how our settlement house model can help make a difference in the lives of vulnerable Americans across the country.

  • Gannett News Network: How Can We Fix Our Divided Country?

    Educational Alliance President & CEO Rich Baum explores how community centers can help bridge political divides and address the loneliness epidemic in our country. When we do the thoughtful, intentional work of creating a reason to connect, people seize the opportunity, love it, and come back.

  • The Villager Op-Ed: Reinforcing Community After Post-Covid Loneliness in New York City

    Educational Alliance President & CEO Rich Baum and 14Y Executive Director Alexis Offen discuss how community centers like 14Y are combatting the loneliness epidemic and helping to bring New Yorkers together in a purposeful way through engaging and joyful programming.

  • Daily News Op-Ed: Helping Children Early is the Key

    Manny Cantor Center Executive Director Jamie Davidson Craig writes about the importance of early childhood enrichment and how it can help close the education gap between young learners of different backgrounds, enabling all children to thrive.

City Council Testimony

  • Funding for Older Adults

    In March 2025, Educational Alliance testified before the New York City Council’s Committee on Aging, urging the city to prioritize funding programs and services that help older adults remain in their communities as they age.

  • Community Care Plan

    In September 2024, Educational Alliance testified before the New York City Council’s Committee on Aging, advocating for support for the older adult population through a robust investment in the Community Care Plan.

  • Cultural Development Fund

    In September 2023, Educational Alliance testified before the New York City Council’s Committee on Cultural Affairs, calling for reforms including timeliness, accountability, and transparency in the funding process.