Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day: A Message of Hope and Equality

January 19, 2026September 3, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Every January, people in the United States honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was a leader in the Civil Rights Movement, a time when many Americans fought for equal rights for all people—no matter their skin color.

Vocabulary:

Equality – the state of being equal, especially in rights and opportunities
Justice – fairness in the way people are treated
Peaceful protest – showing disagreement without violence
Civil rights – the rights of citizens to freedom and equality

Dr. King believed in peaceful protest. He gave powerful speeches, including the famous “I Have a Dream” speech, where he spoke about a future where children of all races could live and learn together in harmony. His words inspired millions and continue to give hope today.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a holiday. It’s a day to remember the importance of justice, kindness, and respect. Many people celebrate by volunteering in their communities, helping others, and learning more about history.

📝 Try This:
Write a short paragraph about a dream you have for a better world. Use words like “peace,” “respect,” and “hope.”

Dr. King’s dream was big—but he showed us that change begins with one voice. What will your voice say today?

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Volunteering 🦃

December 9, 2025December 9, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Thanksgiving Luncheon at the Senior Center at 189 Allen Street

On Wednesday, November 25th, students from our CCR-P class volunteered to serve Thanksgiving lunch to seniors at University Settlement’s Senior Center, located at 189 Allen Street. Our students helped prepare the dining area, greeted seniors as they arrived, and served a hot holiday meal to more than 100 community members. They worked alongside staff and other volunteers to create a warm, festive atmosphere, and many seniors expressed their appreciation for the kindness and support. It was a meaningful opportunity for our class to give back to the community and to experience the spirit of Thanksgiving in action.

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KEEP COOL IN NYC!

August 4, 2025July 10, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Many people like summer sunshine, but too much heat can be dangerous and unhealthy. Hot and humid weather can cause heat illness and even death. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, you need to cool down quickly!

Heavy sweating
Muscle cramps
Light headedness, feeling faint
Headache
Decreased energy
Loss of appetite, nausea

Luckily, New York City has increased the number of ways to Keep Cool during heat emergencies. The parks department has concentrated on water features, drinking fountains, and tree cover as ways to beat the heat outside.

Here’s a link to a map of all the places where you can cool off:

https://www.nycgovparks.org/about/health-and-safety-guide/cool-it-nyc

Spray showers are fun and feel great for kids. The sprinklers are turned on when the temperature reaches 80 degrees F. These are indicated on the map as well as the beaches and outdoor pools that are open to all. NYC even provides free sunscreen at the pools.

There are thousands of drinking fountains across the city – even some for pets!

The map also shows the parks with thick tree coverage, as well as the shadiest blocks to walk.

Another option: If you’re looking for a fun and safe way to beat the heat, consider requesting an official hydrant opening. You can go to your local firehouse and they might open and close a hydrant safely for you.

And if you’re not an “outdoors person,” NYC has many cooling centers. They are located in air-conditioned facilities that offer people relief from the heat, such as:

Libraries
Community centers
Senior centers
NYCHA facilities

To find a cooling center: https://maps.nyc.gov/oem/cc/

Most important: drink lots of water even if you’re not thirsty, wear loose light-colored clothing, and avoid sun and strenuous outdoor activity between 11 AM and 4 PM.

Enjoy the summer in the city!

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Top Ten Things T🌞 D🌞 In NYC This Summer 🌇

July 14, 2025July 14, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Summer is finally here! Looking for fun and adventure during these long, hot days? Here are ten great things to do in and around New York City this summer.

10. Visit a museum!

Too hot outside? Visit an air conditioned museum for free or pay-what-you-wish.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: https://www.metmuseum.org/ (New York State residents and students from NY, NJ, CT can pay what they wish).

Queens County Farm Museum: https://www.queensfarm.org/ (A working farm in the city, often with free admission or low-cost events).

9. Explore a Botanical Garden

Escape the heat of the city and immerse yourself in nature at one of NYC’s beautiful botanical gardens.

New York Botanical Garden: https://www.nybg.org/

Brooklyn Botanic Garden: https://www.bbg.org/

8. Discover NYC’s Rooftop Bars

Escape the heat with a refreshing drink & incredible skyline views.

Time Out’s Best Rooftop Bars NYC: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/bars/best-rooftop-bars-in-nyc

7. Go Kayaking or Boating

Many public boathouses offer free kayaking in the Hudson River and other waterways.

Check NYC Parks for free kayaking locations: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/kayaking

6. Catch a Broadway Show

To go or not to go? Definitely go! Experience the magic of live theater in the heart of the Theater District.

Broadway Direct (For show listings and tickets): https://broadwaydirect.com/shows/

5. Feeling Hungry?

Check out Smorgasburg: A must-visit for foodies, this open-air food market features dozens of local vendors.

Smorgasburg: https://www.smorgasburg.com/ (Check their website for current weekend locations and hours in Williamsburg, Prospect Park, and the World Trade Center).

4. Visit Governors Island

Take a short ferry ride to this car-free island for bike rentals, hammocks, art installations, and stunning skyline views.

Governors Island: https://www.govisland.com/

3. Wander The High Line

This elevated park offers unique city views, art installations, and lush greenery.

The High Line: https://www.thehighline.org/

2. Explore Coney Island

Enjoy classic amusement park rides, the boardwalk, and the beach! -Check for Friday night fireworks!

Luna Park in Coney Island: https://lunaparknyc.com/

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park: https://www.denoswonderwheel.com/

1. Catch a Free Outdoor Movie or Performance

NYC parks come alive in the summer with free movie screenings and live performances.

Bryant Park Movie Nights: https://bryantpark.org/activities/movie-nights

SummerStage in Central Park (Check their schedule for free concerts and performances): https://cityparksfoundation.org/summerstage/

NYC Parks Movies Under The Stars: Check the NYC Parks website for specific dates and locations: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/movies-under-the-stars

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INDEPENDENCE DAY!

July 1, 2025June 12, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Independence – n., freedom from outside control

Federal – adj., of or being a form of government

Parade – n., a great show or display, a public procession

Demonstrate – v., to show clearly

Patriotism – n., love for one’s country

Reflect – v., to realize, to consider

Expat (Expatriate) – n., a person who lives in a foreign country

Embassy – n., the official residence and offices of an ambassador

Homesick – adj., longing for home and family while absent from them

Colonies – n., an area over which a foreign nation has control

Highlight – n., something which is especially interesting

Spectacular – adj., striking, sensational

On July 4^th, Americans all over the world celebrate Independence Day. In the United States, it is a federal holiday, so many people don’t have to work. Parades, picnics, and barbecues take place during the day, with fireworks lighting up the sky at night. Americans demonstrate their patriotism on July 4^th, reflecting on their freedom and the things they love about their country.

American expats living out of the United States still observe the 4^th of July. American embassies all over the planet host parties and events. Individuals celebrate with their friends, and many get a little homesick.

The holiday marks the separation of the 13 colonies from the rule of Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence (the document) was completed on the 4^th of July, 1776. But it was not signed until August!

A highlight of Independence Day in New York City is the evening fireworks display, this year to be held near the Brooklyn Bridge, on the lower East River. The spectacular display is the largest Independence Day celebration in the nation. For more information and where to watch the fireworks: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/where-to-watch-the-4th-of-july-fireworks

Happy Independence Day!

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The Literacy Review

May 18, 2025May 18, 2025 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

We’re excited to share news about The Literacy Review, an annual journal that showcases powerful writing from adult literacy programs throughout New York City.

Each year, The Literacy Review brings together diverse voices and perspectives, providing a platform for writers from ESOL and ABE (Adult Basic Education) programs – including several students from our own program here at University Settlement.

The newest edition, Volume 23 (LR23),was recently released, and there was even a celebration for its launch at NYU.