PASE Network News

The Power of Us report from the American Institutes for Research, commissioned by The Wallace Foundation, synthesizes responses from thousands of youth-serving mentors, coaches, afterschool workers, and more about why they entered the field, how they are supported in their work, and the challenges they face. Join Every Hour Counts on October 30, 2025 for a webinar exploring the findings from the report. This discussion will unpack what the data means for systems leaders, funders, and advocates, and explore the collective actions needed to sustain this essential workforce. Save your spot via Zoom.

Join CUNY Office of K-16 Initiatives on October 30, 2025 from 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM at CUNY Graduate Center (365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016) for a dynamic day dedicated to empowering postsecondary counselors, educators, and advocates with the latest insights into CUNY’s opportunity programs. The day will include remarks from CUNY leadership, presentations with updates on the SEEK/CD and ASAP/ACE opportunity programs, student panels, and an Opportunity Fair. During the Opportunity Fair, campus representatives and program staff will be available to answer participants' questions, share resources, and connect with participants one-on-one. Save your spot today via Eventbrite. 

Young Futures has launched a funding opportunity focused on the urgent need to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to navigate AI, which is rapidly reshaping their learning, creativity, relationships, and mental health. The “Oops!...AI Did It Again” Challenge will fund 10 organizations with one-year grants of $25,000 to $100,000. Funding themes include youth-powered AI; AI in learning, work, and creativity; AI in relationships and mental health; and intergenerational guidance. Full details of the opportunity are available via the website and full Request for Proposals. You can also learn more through a virtual applicant info session on October 15, 2025 at 3:00 PM. The first step in the process is to submit an LOI by October 24, 2025. 

The NYC Department of Youth and Community Development recently released two COMPASS Programs Request for Proposals (RFPs) in PASSPort, both due in mid-November 2025. COMPASS programs offer a range of enrichment activities for elementary and middle school students after school hours, during school holidays, and during the summer. The anticipated contract term will be from August 1, 2026 to August 31, 2032, with no options to renew. Center-Based and Non-Public School Site Program proposals (RFP EPIN 26026P004) are due on November 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Proposals for Programs in Public Schools (RFP EPIN 26026P004) are due on November 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM.  An overview of the RFPs and details for multiple pre-proposal info sessions in October can be found on the DYCD website. Questions regarding these RFPs should be submitted through the discussion with buyer forum in PASSPort or emailed to rfpquestions@dycd.nyc.gov, indicating “COMPASS RFP” in the subject line. 

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program application opened recently on the Common App. Selected Cooke Scholars will receive scholarship funding and access multifaceted advising. Eligible applicants must be current high school seniors with plans to graduate in Spring 2026, intend to enroll in a four-year college in Fall 2026, have a 3.75 unweighted GPA or above, and demonstrate financial need. Read the full eligibility and apply online by November 12, 2025.