GSNC Mission
Grant Street Neighborhood Center‘s mission is to provide an open, safe and productive community space with resources and programs that respond to expressed community needs.
The Grant Street Neighborhood Center serves as a drop-in community center for the public. Our open, safe and productive space provides daily activities and programming that are intentionally infused with opportunities to build critical consciousness through participatory education.
Volunteer with Us!
The Grant Street Neighborhood Center is always looking for more volunteers.
Anyone interested in working with our creative, diverse youth should contact Da’von Mccune, the Grant Street Neighborhood Center Program Manager at
We’re ready for the Spring 2024 session!
All classes are free.
Please email Da’Von “Mr. M.” McCune with any questions!
Capoeira
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Wednesdays
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art with rich connections to history, revolution, and spirituality. While other martial art forms are characterized by landing strikes, Capoeira is characterized by expression and body control, as well as balancing the energy of oneself and their environment. There does not need to be a winner or loser, only the best each person can bring. Students will learn the fundamental techniques and strategies of the game and the cultural language and songs of Afro-Brazil. This will be achieved through training exercises and watching recorded games.
Chess
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Thursdays
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Embark on a strategic journey with our cutting-edge chess program designed for ages 12 and up! Unleash the mastermind within as you dive into the world of mind-bending tactics, cunning strategies, and exhilarating gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a novice, this program guarantees an immersive experience that sharpens your skills and elevates your chess prowess. Ignite your passion for the royal game and challenge your intellect in a visually captivating and intellectually stimulating environment. Get ready to make your move and checkmate boredom – the ultimate chess adventure awaits!
Coding and AI
4/8/2024 - 6/8/2024
Wednesdays
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Unlock the world of coding and artificial intelligence with our dynamic program designed for ages 12 and up! Empower students to bring their ideas to life by creating interactive stories, games, and animations using the user-friendly visual programming language, Scratch. Dive into the realms of creativity, logical reasoning, and teamwork, as young minds embark on an exciting journey of coding exploration. Watch their imaginations flourish and coding skills skyrocket in a supportive environment that fosters innovation. Get ready to code, create, and conquer the future of technology with our immersive and educational coding and AI program.
Communication: Explained
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Wednesdays
4:00 PM - 6:00 P
M
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
weekly instructional series that breaks down specific social interactions to help people better communicate.
Using basic observable habits, we can start to change our lives, simply by having better conversations.
With 40 min instruction and open time after for specific questions, come down and speak better! Learn a tool to help you create the life you want to live.
Community Basketball
10/23/2023 - 6/7/2024
Wednesday and Fridays
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Saturdays
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: School 77
This Community Basketball is designed to provide exercise and fun for youth. The program offers gym time to enjoy competitive playing in a recreational setting. With Guest Speakers from the community
E-Sports
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Tuesday and Thursdays
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Level up your after-school experience with our thrilling eSports program! Unleash the competitive gamer within and join a community of passionate players in an electrifying environment. From heart-pounding matches to strategic gameplay, our eSports program offers an immersive journey into the world of competitive gaming. Sharpen your skills, form alliances, and compete in tournaments as you embark on a quest for victory. With top-notch gaming setups, expert coaching, and a vibrant gaming community, this is your chance to turn your passion for gaming into a skillset. Join us for an after-school adventure where every click, strategy, and play brings you closer to eSports glory!
Fashion and Jewelry Design
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Fridays
3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Dive into the enchanting world of style and sophistication with our after-school program in Fashion Design and Jewelry Crafting! Unleash your inner designer as you explore the art of fashion, sketching out your wildest creations, and crafting exquisite jewelry pieces that sparkle with individuality. From concept to creation, this program is a hands-on journey through the glamorous realms of fashion and accessories. With expert guidance, you’ll learn the tricks of the trade, refine your skills, and bring your unique visions to life. Join us for an immersive experience where creativity knows no bounds, and every piece tells a story. Elevate your style, embrace your creativity, and let the runway of possibilities unfold before you!
Fashion Construction Fundamentals
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Saturdays
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: School 77 POTC Entrance
Embark on a fabulous journey into the world of fashion creation with our Fashion Construction Fundamentals after-school program, led by the talented instructor Rashaad Holley! Unleash your inner designer as you dive into the art of sewing, mastering the essentials of creating chic pillows, trendy pajamas, stylish tote bags, and more. Under the expert guidance of Rashaad Holley, a seasoned professional in the fashion industry, you’ll learn the intricate techniques of garment construction and fabric manipulation. From selecting fabrics to perfecting stitches, this program is a hands-on exploration of the fundamentals that transform your fashion dreams into tangible masterpieces. Join us for an exciting adventure where creativity meets craftsmanship, and every stitch brings you closer to unleashing your unique style on the world!
Internship
1/1/2024 - 6/7/2024
Tuesdays to Saturdays
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Embark on a transformative journey with our high school and college internships at the Grant Street Neighborhood Center! Gain hands-on experience and make a positive impact in the heart of our community. As an intern, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, develop valuable skills, and build connections that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re interested in community outreach, event planning, or educational initiatives, we offer diverse internship opportunities tailored to your interests. Join us in creating positive change while honing your talents and making a difference in the lives of those in our vibrant neighborhood.
Soccer
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Wednesdays
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Asarese-Matters Community Center
Kick into high gear with the world’s favorite sport – Soccer! 🌍⚽ Whether you’re a seasoned player or just stepping onto the field for the first time, get ready for an exhilarating experience that combines skill, strategy, and pure passion for the game.
Join us for a journey that goes beyond goals and victories. Learn the art of dribbling, passing, and scoring with expert coaches who bring out the best in every player. From teamwork to individual flair, soccer is a sport that celebrates unity and showcases the thrill of the game.
Gear up, lace your sneakers, and feel the adrenaline as you become part of a global community united by the love of soccer. It’s more than a game; it’s a lifestyle. So, whether you’re dreaming of the perfect goal or just looking to have a blast with friends, kick off your soccer adventure with us. Let the game begin!” ⚽🏆
Tae Kwon Doe
1/1/2024 - 6/7/2024
Thursdays
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: School 77 POTC Entrance
Dive into the rich legacy of ITF Taekwon-Do and discover the art of self-discipline, respect, and physical prowess. Our experienced instructors at Royal Buffalo Taekwon-Do are dedicated to imparting the authentic teachings of ITF Taekwon-Do, providing you with not just a skill but a way of life.
Join us and experience the power, grace, and tradition of Taekwon-Do in a setting that echoes the history of Buffalo’s martial arts excellence. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned practitioner, our classes offer a dynamic blend of technique, fitness, and philosophy. Become a part of our legacy at Royal Buffalo Taekwon-Do and embark on a transformative journey that transcends physical boundaries. Enroll now and embrace the true spirit of ITF Taekwon-Do with Buffalo’s historic touch!
Thinkster Reading Program
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Saturdays
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
Get ready to turbocharge your reading skills with our Thinkster Reading class – it’s not just a class, it’s a reading revolution! 🚀📚 Imagine unlocking the superhero within you, the one who reads faster, understands better, and conquers every book like a champ.
Picture this: you, alongside our awesome instructors, embarking on a thrilling journey where every page turns at the speed of pure excitement! 🌟 Unleash the power of your imagination as we spill the secrets to becoming a reading legend. This isn’t your average class; it’s a playground of words where you’ll zoom through stories, devour information, and emerge as the ultimate reading superstar.
So, gear up for an adventure where reading becomes the coolest skill you possess. Join Thinkster Reading class – where the books can’t wait to be read, and you’re the hero of your reading story! 📖💫 Ready, set, read at warp speed!”
West Side Studios
4/8/2024 - 6/7/2024
Tuesday and Thursdays
4:0 AM - 6:00 PM
Location: Grant Street Neighborhood Center
West Side Studios is a free digital filmmaking program for teens. Join us to bring your ideas to life on the big screen! You’ll learn how to make a short film from start to finish, from story development and script writing to filming and editing with professional equipment. You’ll also learn how to work as a member of a film crew, and you’ll build skills and experience that will prepare you for a job in the film or television industry. Finished films are screened at festivals like the Buffalo International Film Festival!
GSNC After School Program Application
History
Opened in 1968, this building at 271 Grant St. served as the Northwest District Branch Library. It was closed in December 2005 due to budget restraints. Many community members rallied for the building to be kept open.
With the help of the city Council Member David Rivera, the building reopened in 2006 as a non-profit incubator for two community development organizations: the Massachusetts Avenue Project (MAP) and PUSH. In July 2009, Council Member Rivera hired Janice Li as full-time staff to continue keeping the space open to the public as well as expand the resources and programs available in the building. Janice Li was the Program Manager until fall of 2013. Her passionate service and commitment to the neighborhood contributed to much of what the Center has become today.
With the help of MAP, PUSH, and Council Member Rivera, the Grant Street Neighborhood Center, continues to seek out more partnerships in order to meet needs and interests expressed by our members and in the community.