A Message from Cindy
Dear New City Kids Family,
There is something so powerful about the truth that everybody is unique. Each of us carries a story, a purpose, and a God-given set of talents that add richness to the world. At NCK, we don’t just recognize that uniqueness—we celebrate it, nurture it, and help young people see the value within themselves.
We come alongside teens, families, and each other every day. Whether through one-on-one’s, Brighter Day groups—or simply being present, we refuse to be like those who passed by the wounded man in the story of the Good Samaritan. Instead, we stop. We see. We care. And when we can’t meet the need directly, we make sure to connect people with those who can.
Psalm 133 reminds us: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” This is the heart of what we do. We walk in unity, carrying out this work not alone, but together. These young people come to us with real skills, real talent, and real value. We help them understand that, articulate it, and walk in the confidence of knowing they were created for more.
To the NCK team—you are the hands and feet of this mission. Your work matters. Your love and commitment change lives. Every time you show up, you are answering a call far greater than any job description. Thank you for standing in the gap, for being present, and for making sure no one is overlooked.
With gratitude,
President & CEO
New City Kids, Inc.
Continue reading below…
Get to Know a New City Kids
Staff Member:
Grace Cruz
Teen Program Director
New City Kids: Detroit
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you came to NCK?
I am a first-generation Haitian-American from Brooklyn, NY. I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy having studied education with a major in English and a minor in psychology. I have about twenty years experience working in education in the school setting as well as church setting working with youth ages 3-18. I found out about New City Kids through pastor Drew Ainsley and pastoral intern Rafael Cruz, my husband. They had previously met with Alex Goldsmith who was the Executive Director of New City Kids Detroit in the beginning phases through church networks in Southwest Detroit. They heard there was a position available, and thought I was a good fit for the role and encouraged me to apply. At that time I was already praying about finding a way to utilize all of my experience and skillset to more directly support young people in my community while sharing my faith.
How long have you been with NCK, and what do you enjoy most about working here?
I have been with New City Kids two years now, and have enjoyed developing relationships with our Teen Life Interns the most. There is great joy in seeing their growth and development in the program on a professional and spiritual level.
Can you share a memorable or rewarding moment from your time at NCK?
This is always hard because there are so many memorable moments working here. One of my recent memorable moments was having a one on one with TLI Jayda Anderson and her sharing the news that she was accepted into her dream school Berklee College of Music in Boston. The joy that I had for her, and seeing her grow in the time that I have been working with her was inexplicable. Even her trust in asking me to sit in on her call with the recruitment officer to make sure she was not missing any important questions to get the ball rolling was amazing, because she could have asked anyone, but she asked me.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family. I have been married for twelve years to my amazing husband, and we have four beautiful girls, and a new bundle of joy on the way.
My girls share my love of the arts, so we listen to music together, dance, and love to DIY and craft.
Do you have a favorite hobby or activity that helps you unwind?
My favorite activity to unwind would be a tie between crafting and baking. I enjoy creating, and I especially enjoy watching my family enjoy the new things I bake.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
If I could have dinner with a historical figure, it would be with Anacaona (the golden flower). She was the last independent Taíno chief/queen of Xaragua, which is the island presently known as Hispaniola, shared by the nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. I have always been intrigued by her story, and want to know more about the history of my indigenous people before Columbus arrived.
What’s one thing on your bucket list?
One thing on my bucket list is to travel internationally with my family. We have been unable to do so since before Covid. We have done things locally in Michigan, which I have enjoyed getting to know the state a bit more, but world travel is a dream for me.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of career advice I have ever received was, always be willing to expand and learn. I used to be worried about learning so many random things, and not always seeing how they could all fit together. I am glad I have, and continue to. It has blessed the work that I do here at New City Kids.
HR Corner
Welcome New City Kids Team Members!
Lydia Berkey
Social Worker/Brighter Day Facilitator
Jersey City
Kyndall Colón
Center Director
Detroit
Shamara Tumblin
Center Director
Grand Rapids
Kevin Secundino
Teen Life Internship Coordinator
Lee Street
Celebrating New Roles!
Ellie Arreguin - Rosas
Center Director
Lee Street
March Birthdays:
National
Greg Nelson – March 26 – Marketing Director
Jersey City
Damaris Richardson – March 11 – Greenville Center Director
Star Bullock – March 14 – Job Coach
Grand Rapids
Landen Flippin – March 27 – Job Coach
Becky Fodor – March 30 – Job Coach
The Rubingh Center Construction Update
Exciting things are happening at 533 Bergen Avenue! The transformation of the former Provident Bank branch into the New City Kids Rubingh Center for Youth Development is well underway. This future hub of learning, leadership, and music for our youth Jersey City is taking shape, and we’re excited to share the latest progress.
Here’s what’s been happening:
- Steel work is in progress to extend the second floor.
- Ductwork for the new HVAC system is being installed.
- Interior designer Victoria Bott of Kensington Studio is generously volunteering her time to help select lighting, flooring, and colors.
- The concrete base for the elevator has been poured.
- We’re meeting with a consultant to make decisions on stage lighting and sound to create an amazing performance space.
Huge congratulations to Shaun and the Jersey City team for their dedication to this project! Construction is on track to be completed by summer 2025, and before we know it, this space will be filled with kids and teens learning, growing, and thriving. We can’t wait!
