CARING at Columbia

Make a Gift – Support CARING at Columbia

For more than 35 years, CARING at Columbia has supported the mental health of at-risk children and adolescents throughout New York City. We are part of a growing movement in mental health focused on the prevention of illness before it occurs. CARING’s unique prevention model is based in the creative arts.

This inclusive approach is focused on developing positive emotional coping and problem-solving strategies, improving social skills, and promoting positive peer interaction. Working directly within local public schools, clinics, and community centers, CARING group leaders help children identify their strengths, learn positive coping skills, and explore and express their feelings through the creative arts. This model helps children cope with the challenges they face in their daily lives.

CARING at Columbia was founded in 1988 by Clarice J. Kestenbaum, MD and Ian Canino, MD as a way to promote the mental health of children and adolescents from across New York City. Since then, CARING has touched the lives of thousands of youth and families, helping them to cope with stress and express their feelings through the creative arts and play. We invite you to join us today in our ongoing efforts. No donation is too small, and almost all of your donation will go directly to CARING’s unique programming.  Your tax-deductible donation is deeply appreciated.