ABOUT US
Community Development Services (CDS) is a community-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to delivering high-quality youth and community services. At the heart of CDS are our core values—developed collaboratively by leadership and staff—serving as guiding principles that shape both our vision and our culture, professionally and personally.
VISION
CDS envisions a future where all youth and families in urban, at-risk communities have access to quality, equitable education and career opportunities. We believe that access to these opportunities helps reduce violence and hopelessness while building confidence and improving overall quality of life in our communities.
CDS COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
The CDS Community Learning Center provides academic, artistic, and cultural enrichment opportunities for students and their families during non-school hours, including before and after school, weekends, holidays, and summer recess.
Our mission is to support students and families in improving academic achievement and meeting local and state standards in core subjects such as reading and mathematics. We provide a safe, supportive learning environment along with literacy tutoring, math tutoring, ESL support, and academic enrichment opportunities.
The CDS Community Learning Center also offers a wide range of additional services, including drug and violence prevention, counseling, arts, music, recreation, technology, and character education programs during out-of-school time.
In addition, CDS staff and collaborating partners provide families and the broader community with engagement workshops focused on family-school collaboration, adult literacy, digital literacy, and career development.
OUR APPROACH
Our “it takes a village” collaborative approach sets CDS apart from other youth education support programs in the area. Family and school engagement are essential to our mission and to student success.
Throughout the school year, parents are encouraged to participate in our monthly Parent Involvement Now (PIN) trainings and workshops, as well as four annual Family and Community Engagement events and activities.
CDS OBJECTIVES
Provide a safe, nurturing environment where students and families feel supported and motivated to learn.
Establish strong working relationships with school administrators, counselors, and teachers to align CDS programs with school mission and academic goals.
Ensure certified educators and case managers complete assessments and develop Academic Development Plans (ADPs) to support students’ academic growth and social-emotional learning.
Train families and community members on education rights and advocacy so they can support equitable and safe learning environments for all children.
CDS YOUTH PROGRAMS
CDS After School Program
CDS Summer Camp
CDS Beyond Literacy Program
CDS Mentorship
CDS Performing Arts Program
N.M. School of Dance
FAMILY & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Parent Involvement Now (PIN)
(NEW) Older Adult Activity Center
(NEW) Community Human Services