The Center for Architecture’s Community Programs extend architecture and design education beyond the school day, partnering with local organizations to create meaningful, accessible, and culturally responsive learning experiences. Rooted in equity and access, these programs are developed in close collaboration with community partners and are designed to meet learners where they are.   

Across all Community Programs, the Center for Architecture prioritizes partnership, flexibility, and responsiveness—ensuring that architecture and design education is not only accessible, but relevant, empowering, and deeply connected to the communities we serve. 

We currently work with the following partners:

Queens Public Library, Far Rockaway Branch

In partnership with the Queens Public Library, we engage teens in after-capacity and out-of-school-time design programs that introduce architecture as a tool for creative expression, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Through hands-on projects and collaborative challenges, teens explore the built environment, respond to issues in their own neighborhoods, and build confidence as emerging designers.

District 75 Saturday Arts Academy

Our multi-generational programming with District 75’s Saturday Arts Academy serves youth with disabilities alongside their caregivers. These sessions emphasize inclusive design, sensory-aware learning, and collaborative making, creating a welcoming environment where families learn together. Programs are structured to honor diverse abilities while fostering creativity, agency, and connection through architecture and design.

CASA Corona Academy of Science & Art Saturday Academy

At CASA Corona Academy, we collaborate on a Science & Art Saturday program that supports multilingual learners through inquiry-based, hands-on design experiences. Architecture and design are used as accessible entry points to STEAM learning, encouraging problem-solving, language development, and creative exploration in a supportive, culturally affirming environment.