Growth & Development Services, Inc. (GDS) empowers at-risk teens to make unprecedented life transformations by providing them with the inspiration and means to discover and sustain purpose, pride, and hope in themselves, their families, and their community.

Description and/or History:
In 1996 GDS was created to transform at-risk adolescents and their families, especially those living in New York City’s most neglected communities, where therapeutic services are often scarce.

Our Reach Your Potential! (RYP) therapeutic model rewards teens for improving academic achievement, school attendance, and social behavior. RYP is the core of GDS’ programs; it is used as a motivational tool in all of our services.

The Excel Program, a five-year holistic program, helps teens navigate adolescence by providing them with positive life experiences including the support of friends and caring adults.

Contact people:

Greg Fuchs, Assistant Director, (212) 740-7040, (email) Percio Bernal, Program Director, (212) 740-7040, (email)

Address:

216 Fort Washington Avenue New York, NY 10032 (See a map)

Directions:

We are in Upper Manhattan, in the 168th Street Armory,across from Columbia Presbyterian New York Hospital. Fort Washington is parallel to and one block west of Broadway. We are between 168th Street and 169th Street.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: A, C, & 1 Trains 168th Street,   Walk distance (in minutes): 3 minutes