Options
The New York City Police Foundation and the NYPD established the OPTIONS Program to help New York City youth build decision-making skills, find their voice in their communities, and access career-development opportunities through a series of workshops, training programs, and internships. Through this partnership, NYPD officers and youth participants engage in authentic, thoughtful, and productive conversations about real-life situations and the challenges young New Yorkers face. The OPTIONS curriculum is designed to create better outcomes by enhancing emotional intelligence, developing de-escalation techniques, and strengthening participants’ situational awareness.
To date, hundreds of NYPD officers and more than 40,000 young people have participated in these dynamic workshops, which provide youth with practical skills to navigate challenges and make positive decisions.
Beyond school-based presentations, NYPD OPTIONS Wellness Centers have been established throughout the city to provide safe and creative spaces where young people can participate in additional workshops focused on personal and professional development.
The NYPD OPTIONS Wellness Center in the Bronx (48 Precinct) and the NYPD Community Center in Brooklyn (75 Precinct) offer programming that includes Virtual Reality Training labs, social-emotional intelligence training, wellness resources, financial management classes, and professional development services such as life skills, resume writing, job interview preparation, and basic computer skills. Additional workshops include pre-coding, videography and photography, communications and social media marketing, podcast production, trades training, and augmented reality art and music programs.
