On May 14, 2008, friends of Center gathered at the BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the “Life Lines” Community Arts Project. The Center honored two outstanding leaders for their contributions to youth development and the arts: Jeanne Mullgrav, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, and Esmeralda Santiago, and inspiring author and filmmaker.

Following the awards reception, youth in the “Life Lines” Repertory Company presented a performance of From the Stoops of Sunset, an improvisational drama with teen-created characters, songs, dances, and visual art. In celebration of the "Life Lines" 25th Anniversary, the show borrowed memorable content from previous "Life Lines" productions to tell new stories and raise current teen concerns. From the Stoops of Sunset offered a glimpse into the lives of five families in Sunset Park. Through their stories, the audience learned what it's like to grow up, grow apart, and grow together within a family and as a community. Presented bilingually, the performance highlighted the struggles and vitality of life in Sunset Park. 

Thank you to our honorees, event committee, and advisory board, and to the sponsors and supporters
who joined us in celebrating the talent and creativity of “Life Lines” youth!

Above: Esmeralda Santiago autographs her memoir
for a teacher from MS 136/MS 821.

Below: CFL Advisory Board Chair Anne Sherman
welcomes guests.

Above: DYCD Commissioner Jeanne Mullgrav and
CFL Co-Director Julie Stein Brockway

Below: CFL Co-Director Julia Jean-Francois,
SCO Family of Services Executive Director Bob McMahon,
and honoree Esmeralda Santiago

Left: a scene from the performance

Below: “Life Lines” founder Julie Stein Brockway
with program alumni

Below and Right: scenes from the performance of
From the Stoops of Sunset

Event photos © Carolina Kroon

Below: Jeanne Mullgrav and Esmeralda Santiago join the
“Life Lines” Repertory Company onstage after the performance