Empowering Through the Arts
for All Abilities
Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. creates an environment where the transformative power of the arts unites individuals of all abilities. Our inclusive performing arts workshops celebrate diversity, foster creativity, and build a strong sense of community. Through music, dance, and self-expression, we offer a space for everyone to shine, regardless of background or ability. Join us as we embark on a journey of empowerment, growth, and artistic exploration.
The Making of SylksZone
Beauty is in the different.
Gift of Love
Our Journey
Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. started its journey by offering programming at Casella Housing HDFC Senior residences at Rev. David Casella Plaza, Bronx, New York. The focus was on fostering creativity and inclusion for all ages and abilities.
In 2008, we received a donation from a community center at 870 E 175th Street, Bronx, New York. This space allowed the organization to expand its mission of providing a creative and inclusive environment for the community.
In August 2008, Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. was granted the community space for $1 per month by Mr. Michael Brennan, Executive Director of Casella Houses HDFC. The space required significant renovations, but with the support of friends, family, and "Rebuild Together.org," it was transformed into a thriving community hub for the arts.
In 2013, the Wavecrest Management Team took over the building, and the new management introduced discriminatory practices that targeted our LGBTQIA+ and differently-abled community members. This behavior made it difficult to continue our mission of inclusion, but we pushed forward with the support of local community partners like Mr. Shawn Cragil from the New York Parks Department.
By 2016, the situation deteriorated further with theft, vandalism, and threats against the organization. Our angels were not safe anymore. After losing valuable equipment and supplies, the decision was made to close the doors of Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. on September 15, 2016. This left the community without a critical resource for inclusive programs.
As of 2025, the space remains vacant, reflecting the lack of support for the inclusive programs we once provided. Many of our Angels remain displaced, still searching for spaces that welcome and embrace them.
The COVID-19 pandemic only deepened the isolation and exclusion faced by our community, highlighting the struggles of differently-abled individuals who are often invisible to the broader society. It reminded us of the need for spaces that foster inclusion and connection.
Despite the challenges, we remain resilient. We are thankful for the ongoing support from our community and will continue to push forward with our mission to empower and include all individuals, no matter their background or ability.
Spreading Love
Community Service and Outreach
We continue to serve and uplift communities with our various programs, offering support to families and organizations. Our goal is to foster inclusion and empowerment through creative expression, fitness, and cultural outreach. Through our partnerships and adaptive dance programs for seniors, we reach individuals across different age groups, abilities, and backgrounds, sharing unconditional love and positive energy.
Locations We’ve Impacted
We have traveled far and wide to share our mission of community love. From New York City parks to distant states, our programs have impacted diverse communities. We’ve worked with organizations such as:
- New York City: NYCHA Houses, Shape Up NYC, Friends of Crotona, St. John Lutheran Church NYC, Princess Janae Place (LGBTQIA+), and many more.
- Pennsylvania: Rainbow Mountain Resorts (LGBTQIA+), Ranch Land Sports & Recreation.
- Las Vegas: Lifelong Dreams Inc. (Special Needs), The Center (LGBTQIA+), Kiss Is 4 Kidz (Special Needs).
- Ann Arbor, MI: Camp Hill Summer Camp.
- Kissimmee & Jacksonville, Florida: Newly added to our outreach efforts in 2023.
Global Reach and Expanding Horizons
With our "Foreign Entity Permits," Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. is expanding its reach, touching lives in various regions across the United States, from the Poconos Mountains to the vibrant LGBTQIA+ communities of Las Vegas. We continue to be a guiding light, spreading love and inclusion wherever we go, and look forward to making even more connections in the future.
Empowering Youth Through Summer Employment
From 2009 to 2016, Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. proudly partnered with the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and NYC Parks to provide inclusive employment opportunities for youth in New York City. Our collaboration with the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) gave young people—both differently abled and traditionally-able—the chance to build job readiness skills while engaging in enriching recreational activities.
In our inaugural year, we employed seven differently abled and seven traditionally-able individuals. Over time, our numbers grew, allowing us to offer even more opportunities. The program was designed not only to focus on job readiness but also to emphasize health and wellness. Participants honed their fine and gross motor skills, built socialization and conflict resolution abilities, and worked toward improved physical fitness—all while learning positive work ethics.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was its ability to offer a platform for youth who often struggle to find employment opportunities. Many of our differently abled participants, who would typically not have access to such opportunities, thrived in an environment tailored to their needs. As the program progressed, we saw increased success in fostering self-confidence and independence, with many youth coming from other work sites where they had been labeled as difficult.
Our participants gained more than just job experience. They were introduced to money management, literacy improvement, and valuable life skills, all integrated with the arts. Whether participating in weekly dance, music, vocal, and drumming lessons, or enjoying activities like tennis, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, or nature walks, every day was an opportunity for personal growth. Our focus was to ensure every individual left the program with a renewed sense of self-worth and a clearer vision for their future.
By the end of the summer, our youth not only improved in skills but also in character and outlook. Many graduates of the program went on to achieve their personal goals, whether by advancing in education or joining the armed forces. The impact of this program has been lasting, with countless youth now excelling in various fields, proving the power of inclusive, community-focused employment initiatives.
Unity and Wellness Through
Community Events
We foster unity and joy through annual community events in partnership with NYC Parks. Held in Crotona Park and Indian Lake amphitheater, these gatherings feature fitness classes, dance showcases, picnics, and more, bringing together local organizations, LGBTQIA+ performers, and community groups to celebrate creativity, inclusivity, and wellness.
Past & Upcoming Events
Verbiage to come soon...
Special Events & Annual Fundraisers
- May: Mother's Day & Wounded Warrior Fundraiser
- June: Tribute to Prince Roger Nelson & Summer Blast Tie Dye Picnic & LGBTQIA+ Rainbow Connection
- July: Disability Unite Festival, Disability Pride Parade, Baby Contest & Family Day Picnic
- August: Tribute to Michael Jackson & Back 2 School Block Party
- September: Sunset Fitness, Crafts Classes & Weekend Family Retreats
- October: Harvest Moon Halloween Craft/Game Night & Annual Masquerade Ball
- December: Holiday/Kwanzaa Celebration at St. Mary's Park & Recreation Center
West Farms Day Program
Located just a block away, the West Farms Day Program offers services for adults aged 21 and up at 175th Street and Boston Road. Every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, we volunteer to provide enriching activities, including dance, music, art, and games.
We use music, dance, and art to promote literacy and skill development. Many participants, who had never learned to spell their names or count, gained confidence while engaging in these creative activities.
Participants took part in group activities like pick-up sticks, jacks, and turn-taking, which encouraged social interaction. They also learned basic American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate with deaf and hard-of-hearing peers. African drumming sessions helped with conflict resolution and emotional expression while modeling and showtime sessions boosted self-esteem. The potential for personal growth and self-expression is limitless.
In the Spirit of Umoja (Unity)
Every year, we gather at St. Mary's Park & Recreation Center, 450 St Ann's Avenue, Bronx, New York, to celebrate the holiday and Kwanzaa season with an uplifting community event.
Our love for the stage transcends performances. We aim to educate, empower, and uplift individuals, spreading unconditional love and inspiration to our communities.
We believe beauty is in difference. Through our efforts, we teach and share love, helping others appreciate the uniqueness in everyone.
With the generous support of our families, friends, and communities, we continue to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, promoting open minds and open hearts, knowing that we are uniquely designed for this mission.
Reach Out Today
Have questions or want to get involved or join us in our next event? Contact us and help make a difference.