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Agency Testimony

DYCD Associate Commissioner Wanda Asherall introduces Beacon and Cornerstone overview

New York City Council · Jun 23, 2026 · starts 0:09:36 · 1 min 26 sec

Wanda Asherall, Associate Commissioner of DYCD, introduces herself and colleague Threcia Harris, and provides an overview of the 92 Beacon and 100 Cornerstone programs, describing their year-round operations and role as community hubs.

Althea V. Stevens

Hello.

Wanda Asherall

Okay, that's close.

Wanda Asherall

Let me know if you, oh, I can hear myself.

Wanda Asherall

Good afternoon, Chair Stevens and members.

Wanda Asherall

I think it's just this one.

Wanda Asherall

Good afternoon, Chair Stevens and members of the Children and Youth Committee.

Wanda Asherall

Bring it closer.

Wanda Asherall

No, no worries.

Wanda Asherall

Let me know if it's too loud.

Wanda Asherall

Good afternoon, Chair Stevens and members of the Children and Youth Committee.

Wanda Asherall

I am Wanda Asherall, Associate Commissioner of the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development.

Wanda Asherall

I am joined by Threcia Harris, Assistant Commissioner for Community Centers.

Wanda Asherall

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss DYCD's Beacon Cornerstone Community Centers.

Wanda Asherall

DYCD's community centers include 92 beacon programs located in public schools across New York City and 100 cornerstone programs operating in New York City housing authority developments.

Wanda Asherall

They operate year-round in non-school hours, during non-school hours, on weekdays, weekends, and in the summer.

Wanda Asherall

Each center transforms its host location into a resource for the whole community by offering an integrated range of programming tailored to local needs.