Very often I would meet someone who seems familiar with the name Sesame Flyers International who would say something like " you guys make costumes for Labor Day Carnival right ? ". Well as the thirteen (13) peat champions of Brooklyn Labor Day Carnival Band Of The Year competition, that draws over three million spectators every year, I would proudly say "yes". However, I dare not miss the opportunity to also describe all the other wonderful programs we have for our youths and the community. The scenario would play itself over and over again, over and over. For this reason, it has become extremely apparent that we have to do more to balance our public image. We have to broadcast all that we do and once again include the thousands of youth we commit your donations, our time and resources to. So whatever you think you know about Sesame, either through our cultural events or our youth programs, now that you are here on these pages, get to know us once again, you might have missed something.

Our agency provides a comprehensive, multi faceted, holistic strategy to youth and community development, with cultural art at its core. Our schedule of programs including academics support recreational programs, counseling services and cultural events, are designed mindful of the fact that our community and our youth often struggle with their own identity but have limited access to structured programs that empower and build self esteem. As a consequence many of our youth are prone to engage in activities that present a serious danger to themselves and those around them. Substance abuse, criminal activity and other forms of anti social behavior become more appealing given the free time and lack of self esteem of our youth. Here at Sesame, we recognize that re-establishing cultural identity has been proven to rebuild self esteem. The rich history behind the performing arts is testimony to human kind's desire to communicate through music, dance and the cultural arts even an oppressed people to express themselves lift their spirit and assert their own cultural identity. Through performing arts, youth develop tools to establish an active voice that will provide continuity in their desire to maintain cultural integrity, confidence and resilience.

Given confidence, the sky is the limit to what they can and do accomplish. So next time you hear us playing the steel pan or see us in costume, you can know that our dedicated board of nine directors, committed staff of forty true professionals, thirty five members, countless volunteers / supporters, sponsors and thousands of youths are also there, trying to do more to uphold our motto. So please come join with us to " Love A Kid Today And Every Day ".