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University Settlement’s Neighborhood Center at 189 Allen Street is once again welcoming adults 60 and older after a renovation that refreshed its pre-existing restroom facilities while adding office space and a brand new ADA-accessible restroom!  

“Our participants come from all over NYC, and particularly from our nearby neighborhoods the Lower East Side and Chinatown, and we’re so excited to share that the friendly gathering place they know and love is open again, with new programs, expanded activities, and social services that keep our community of adults 60+ connected and cared for,” said Jennifer Vallone, Associate Executive Director of Adults, Arts, and Advocacy at University Settlement.  

The renovation was funded by DASNY. Older Adults programs at Neighborhood Center are funded by NYC AGING.  

New programs offered by the center include hybrid Pilates classes as well as additional  ballroom dance classes in Cha Cha and Samba, and weekly technology classes, all added to support our robust line up of additional dance classes, fitness classes and arts classes. And the Center’s hours have also been extended – the site is open from 8 AM – 7 PM each day, with dinner served at 6 PM.  

“We have a new look and we’re more accessible – and we’re still the community hub where our neighbors can connect with friends and support services that help New Yorkers age in place,” said Bing Ji, who leads LEARN (Longevity through Education, Arts, Recreation, and Nutrition) programs at University Settlement. “We’re looking forward to seeing all our longtime friends, and especially welcome any of our neighbors who may not have visited before to stop in and see what all the excitement’s about!”  

In addition to its programming for Older Adults, Neighborhood Center also houses offices for University Settlement programs including Care Coordination, Families Thriving, Home-Based Crisis Intervention, Wellness Together, and Project Home.