Last fall, the IRC in New York launched World Explorers, a Saturday youth enrichment program focused on global learning, creativity, and community building. Led by the Youth Partnership and Academy Coordinator Mike Barrett and supported by a multilingual team, the program was designed in direct response to feedback from Ukrainian families in the Brighton Beach area. 

“We heard clearly from families that they needed something on weekends,” Mike said. “They wanted a space where their kids could learn, play, and connect to their roots—while also being introduced to the diversity of their new home.” 

Program Overview

World Explorers began at the Brighton Beach Library as a pilot program. It offered three hours of structured programming every Saturday, giving parents time for errands and rest while their children engaged in meaningful learning. 

The pilot quickly gained momentum. By early 2025, the program had grown to serve 10–15 students weekly, ranging from kindergarten through fifth grade.

“Finding a permanent location was a major challenge,” said Mike. “But our partnership with Lafayette has been incredible. They’ve supported us with space, snacks, and a welcoming environment.” 

A Global Curriculum

Each session of World Explorers is themed around a different country. Through hands-on crafts, cooking, language learning, and STEM activities, students explore global cultures while connecting with one another and reflecting on their own identities. 

Recent sessions included: 

“The program keeps Ukrainian culture at its core,” Mike explained. “That was a top priority for families, and Anastasiia’s presence has been key to maintaining that connection.” 

Each Saturday also includes a shared meal, often sourced from local markets and restaurants, allowing children to engage with a country’s cuisine while supporting nearby businesses. 

Impact Beyond the Classroom

The impact of World Explorers goes far beyond academic enrichment. For families, the program offers time to complete essential tasks or connect with other parents. For students, it provides a safe and joyful space to explore the world, build friendships, and take pride in their identities. 

“A lot of our students are the only Ukrainian-speaking kids in their classrooms,” Mike shared. “This program gives them a space to speak their language, celebrate their culture, and meet peers who understand their experience.” 

One highlight from the year was seeing two students, living in different boroughs, reunite through World Explorers after first meeting at NYSA. The program provided them with a consistent place to continue their friendship. 

“World Explorers is less about academics and more about connection, cultural competency, and belonging,” Mike added. 

Looking Ahead

The final session of the school year culminated in a community picnic in the park, complete with a ceremony, “minute to win it” games, student superlatives, and welcome-to-summer gifts. 

The team is already planning for next year, with hopes to expand enrollment, broaden the artistic offerings, and potentially include middle and high school students. The IRC is also exploring ways to continue sessions at both the Lafayette site and reintroduce programming at the Brighton Beach Library, pending space availability. 

“The goal is to grow creatively while staying grounded in what families need—cultural relevance, community connection, and joyful learning.” 

Written by Development Coordinator Emma Young.