University Settlement marked its 140th anniversary with a free community block party Oct. 3 in Brooklyn, bringing neighbors together for an afternoon of music, dance, art, food and family activities at P.S. 133 in Boerum Hill.
The celebration took place in the schoolyard at 610 Baltic St., the site of University Settlement’s first Brooklyn program.
“Thank you all for celebrating today. University Settlement’s 140th Birthday is about having fun and bringing joy to our communities with music, art and dance," said Melissa Aase, CEO of University Settlement. "Happy Birthday to us and have a great afternoon!”
The event featured carnival games, face painting, a DJ dance party with 1990s, hip-hop and Motown music, dance and music performances, art projects and community resources. Attendees also received free Jamaican patties, empanadas and popcorn.
The anniversary also highlighted University Settlement’s longstanding role in strengthening communities in Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan.
Founded in 1886 as the first settlement house in the United States, the organization now works with more than 40,000 New Yorkers each year through programs addressing education, youth development, healthy aging, mental health, housing advocacy, benefits assistance, English-language learning, community services and the arts.
Its location at P.S. 133 connected the anniversary to the neighborhood where that work began, while the event’s free activities reflected University Settlement’s emphasis on accessible community programming.
The occasion was recognized by city and state leaders, including state Sen. Jabari Brisport, Deputy Brooklyn Borough President Kim Council and Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon. Mayor Zohran Mamdani also proclaimed Oct. 3 University Settlement Society of New York Day, with additional proclamations from Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and U.S. Rep. Dan Goldman.
University Settlement continues to provide year-round services and programs in Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan, building on its 140-year history while responding to the needs of New Yorkers and creating opportunities for residents of all ages to connect, learn and participate in their communities.
