At Elmcrest, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to be heard, seen, and celebrated. This past April, in honor of National Poetry Month, we invited our youth to participate in a free-write poetry contest—a chance for them to express themselves freely and creatively, with no limitations or prompts. What followed was nothing short Read More »
As we welcome March, we're embracing growth and renewal at Elmcrest! This month, we're celebrating the resilience of our youth, the dedication of our team, and the generosity of our community. From engaging programs to inspiring success stories, there’s so much to share. Stay up to date on our upcoming initiatives, ways to get involved, Read More »
At Elmcrest, we believe in the power of family. We believe that with the right support, resilience can turn struggles into success, and families can be whole again. For nearly two years, a single mother of five faced unimaginable challenges—mental health struggles, addiction, and homelessness. Her children were placed in foster care twice. Yet, she Read More »
Elmcrest is thrilled to introduce the H.E.A.T. (Highly Empowered Amazing Talent) Theater Program, a groundbreaking initiative that gives young people the opportunity to shine both on and off the stage. This transformative program is made possible through funding from the Tier Three Project Support program, a regrant initiative of the County of Onondaga, with support Read More »
The children in our residential program honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a day filled with learning, creativity, and collaboration. The day began with workshops that explored Dr. King's message of equality, justice, and love. These sessions encouraged reflection on his dream and how it continues to inspire change in our Read More »
Twas the ride before Christmas, and all through the state,A roar echoed softly—it wasn’t too late.For there on his Harley, with gifts in the side,Was Motorcycle Santa, in full festive pride. The children of Elmcrest, all giddy with cheer,Knew their hero was coming—the day was now here!With signs they created, they stood by the gate,Eagerly Read More »
At Elmcrest Children’s Center, we don’t just provide care—we help children and families rewrite their stories. Every child and family who walks through our doors carries with them a unique journey, often marked by challenges and hardship. But with the right support, their stories can take a hopeful turn toward brighter futures. This year, through Read More »
At just 18 years old, Jay had already faced challenges that many wouldn’t encounter in a lifetime. Life had been a series of obstacles, each one seemingly more insurmountable than the last. But Jay was determined not to let his past define his future. When Jay arrived at Elmcrest Children’s Center, he was filled with Read More »
Spread holiday cheer by becoming an Elmcrest Elf Looking for a meaningful way to give back this holiday season? Consider becoming an Elmcrest Elf! Elmcrest is dedicated to providing residential and community-based programs that support children facing emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric challenges, as well as those with developmental disabilities and severe medical conditions. Many of Read More »
The Board of Directors has unanimously approved the appointment of Interim Executive Director Diane Nappa as the official Executive Director of Elmcrest Children’s Center effective immediately. Diane Nappa has served as Interim Executive Director since February of this year. In this time, she has worked closely and collaboratively with Elmcrest’s leadership to improve several of Read More »
