As many as 25% of East End students are at risk of failing, according to school social workers. The pandemic exacerbated a pre-existing equity crisis in our schools as lower-income and minority students experienced higher learning loss and struggle to meet grade-level benchmarks. In particular, Shinnecock students are not adequately supported by their school district, as reflected in state testing.

HCO aims to break the cycle of poverty through education and enrichment. We provide free, one-on-one tutoring and life skills mentoring to students in need and those living on the Shinnecock Reservation. We can have a transformative impact on children’s lives by providing them with the tools and resources they need. To date, HCO has matched 102 students with tutors.

We are also passionate about bridging the opportunity gap that marginalized children experience. HCO sponsors a wide variety of free enrichment programs and activities year round. Our capstone children’s program, Hamptons Art Camp, has welcomed more than 750 children over the last six summers and every year 40% of campers come from underserved communities attend tuition-free. HCO provides free professional swim and water safety lessons, horseback riding, and tennis lessons to underserved children. We sponsor birthday parties, holiday gifts, sports games, provide school supplies, clothing and tickets to prom. We believe that every child should have these opportunities to experience learning, growth, and joy.