Frequently Asked Questions

We offer a wide variety of activities designed to strengthen family bonds, including:

• Outdoor adventures like park visits and nature walks
• Creative workshops including art classes and craft projects
• Educational outings to museums and cultural sites
• Cooking classes focusing on nutrition and cultural traditions
• Family game days with board games and team challenges
• Support services including counseling and resource navigation

All activities are designed to be age-appropriate and accessible for families of all sizes and backgrounds.

We schedule activities throughout the week to accommodate different family needs:

• Weekday programs: Monday through Friday, various times
• Weekend outings: Saturdays and Sundays for working families
• Evening activities: For families with daytime commitments
• Special events: Monthly themed activities and seasonal celebrations

Each family can participate in multiple activities per week based on their interest and availability.

Our programs are designed to accommodate children of all ages, from infants to teenagers. We offer:

• Age-appropriate activities for different developmental stages
• Mixed-age family activities that encourage sibling bonding
• Specialized programs for teens and young adults
• Activities adapted for children with special needs

Our trained staff ensure that all children can safely participate and enjoy the activities.

Our volunteer requirements vary by role, but generally include:

• Minimum age of 18 (or 16-17 with parent/guardian consent)
• Background check for roles involving direct contact with families
• Completion of our volunteer orientation and training program
• Commitment to our values of compassion, respect, and inclusivity
• Reliable attendance and communication

No prior experience with families or children is required - we provide comprehensive training for all volunteers.

We offer flexible volunteer opportunities to fit various schedules:

• Regular volunteers: 2-6 hours per week
• Event volunteers: As needed basis for special events
• Administrative volunteers: Flexible hours, including remote options
• Skills-based volunteers: Project-based commitments

We ask for a minimum 3-month commitment for direct service roles to ensure consistency for the families we serve.

Yes! We provide comprehensive training that includes:

• Orientation to our mission, values, and programs
• Cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care training
• Role-specific skills training
• Safety protocols and emergency procedures
• Ongoing support and professional development opportunities

Training is provided free of charge and typically takes 8-12 hours to complete.

We are committed to transparency in how donations are used:

• 85% goes directly to programs and services
• 10% covers administrative costs
• 5% supports fundraising activities

Your donation funds activities, transportation, materials, staff training, and program development. We publish annual reports detailing our financial transparency.

Yes, I Am Edge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Our Tax ID is 12-3456789.

You will receive a tax receipt via email immediately after your donation, and an annual summary for tax filing purposes.

Yes! We offer several ways to direct your donation:

• General fund: Supports all programs and greatest needs
• Program-specific: Target specific activities like outdoor adventures or creative workshops
• Emergency fund: Helps families in crisis situations
• Capital projects: Supports facility improvements and equipment

Contact us to discuss specific allocation preferences for your donation.

If your family is currently in a NYC shelter, you can participate by:

• Speaking with your shelter case manager about our programs
• Contacting us directly at (555) 123-4567
• Attending one of our information sessions at participating shelters
• Filling out our family interest form

All programs are free and designed to accommodate various family sizes and needs.

We provide all necessary materials and supplies for activities. We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable clothing appropriate for the activity
• Weather-appropriate outerwear for outdoor activities
• Any necessary medications or special items for children
• A positive attitude and willingness to try new things!

We'll provide specific instructions for each activity when you sign up.

Meal provision depends on the activity:

• Half-day activities: Snacks and beverages provided
• Full-day outings: Lunch and snacks included
• Cooking workshops: Families enjoy the meals they prepare
• Special events: Meals are typically provided

We accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies when families inform us in advance.

We serve families in shelters throughout all five boroughs of New York City:

• Manhattan
• Brooklyn
• Queens
• The Bronx
• Staten Island

We work with over 50 shelter facilities and continue to expand our reach to serve more families in need.

I Am Edge was founded in 2018 by a group of social workers and community advocates who recognized that families in shelters needed more than just housing - they needed opportunities to maintain and strengthen their family bonds during challenging times.

What started as a small pilot program serving 10 families has grown into a comprehensive organization serving over 500 families annually across NYC.

Stay connected with our work through:

• Monthly newsletter with stories and updates
• Social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn
• Annual reports and impact statements
• Community events and fundraisers
• Our blog with family stories and parenting resources

You can sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of any page on our website.

Yes! We collaborate with many organizations to maximize our impact:

• NYC Department of Homeless Services
• Local museums and cultural institutions
• Parks and recreation departments
• Other family service nonprofits
• Corporate sponsors and foundation partners
• Faith-based organizations
• Educational institutions

These partnerships help us provide diverse, high-quality programming for families.