CitySquash is a non-profit after school enrichment program for children and teens from the Bronx and Brooklyn. Kids and parents alike commit to the demanding program starting in the 3rd or 4th grade. It develops the kids’ academic and athletic skills to get them ready for college success with tutoring, mentoring, life skills and high school and college placement assistance. Fordham University hosts the program in its classrooms and squash courts and Fordham students serve as academic tutors and coaches. 

For eight summers before the pandemic, the Reiss Foundation hosted City Squash‘s annual late August retreat, which brings together over 100 members, staff, and volunteers and kicks off the academic year with hiking, swimming, and team-building recreational activities and cabin group-based competitions. 

Long-lasting friendships are formed in Lake Placid among kids age 8 and up from different NYC schools and neighborhoods. High school seniors give talks to the younger kids at a closing night campfire. Bonding and trust building among teammates and coaches serves to launch everyone with renewed motivation into the new school year.  

The leadership of CitySquash consistently expresses great appreciation to the Foundation for hosting their program in Lake Placid and is looking forward to returning to their special place in the Adirondacks in 2022.