August 2026 News & Updates
Dear Saint Basil Academy Friends,
As summer comes to a close, we’re looking back on a month filled with adventure, growth, connection, and community. From field trips and summer vacations, to staff training and meaningful service, August was a busy and memorable month at Saint Basil Academy. Check out what everyone did both on and off campus!
Exploring. Playing. Making Memories.
Our Playroom made the most of the summer sunshine with field trips to Bear Mountain State Park, SplashDown, the Bronx Zoo, Bowdoin Park, Rockland State Park, Fun Max Adventure Park, and Sesame Place!
Our littles had an incredible time exploring new places, trying new activities, and spending time together. There were plenty of smiles, laughter, and memories made along the way!
Summer of Growth
Summer wasn’t just about having fun, it was also about growing.
Many of our kids across all programs participated in summer camps and summer jobs, gaining new skills, building confidence, developing independence, and making meaningful connections.
We’re proud of all they accomplished this summer!
Youth Program Spotlight
Ocean City Fun
Our Youth Program spent over a week in Ocean City, Maryland, enjoying new experiences, strengthening friendships, and making memories together.
It was a wonderful opportunity for our youth to step outside their everyday routines, build independence, and enjoy one another’s company.
Many thanks to Barbara and Nick Nichols and the entire Ocean City Community!
Investing in Our Staff
Three Days of Learning, Connection, and Team Building
Our staff came together for a three-day In-Service Training focused on being trauma-informed and strengthening the way we reach and respond to those we serve.
Training topics included: Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, Narcan Training with guest Dr. Aric Kupper from the Philipstown Behavioral Health Hub, Boundaries Training with guest Thomas Califra from the Office of Children and Family Services, and much more!
The three days were also an opportunity for our staff to team-build, connect, and strengthen relationships with one another.
When we invest in our staff, we strengthen our ability to support our children, youth, and families.
New Beginnings
Back to School and Beyond
A new school year is here!
Many of our kids are excited to return to school, take on new challenges, and begin another year of learning and growth.
And for some of our Bridge Program students, this fall brings an especially exciting milestone: college!
We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and excited to see where their next chapter takes them.
Community in Action
Overdose Awareness Remembrance Night
On Monday, August 31st, many of our staff and program members volunteered at the Overdose Awareness Remembrance Night in Cold Spring.
It was a meaningful evening of remembrance, compassion, and community as we came together to honor those affected by overdose and substance use and support those in our community.
Did You Know?
Orthodoxy in Action
Our Orthodox Service Leaders work across all of our programs as mentors, role models, and examples of “Orthodoxy in Action.” Through service, compassion, and meaningful relationships, they strive to live out the values of our Orthodox Christian faith each day and bring those values into the lives of the children, youth, and families we serve.
Orthodoxy in Action means putting faith into practice through service, love, compassion, and community.
Looking Ahead!
As we close out summer, we’re grateful for the adventures, accomplishments, and connections that made August so special.
A new school year brings new opportunities, new challenges, and new beginnings. We’re excited for all that September has in store!
From our Saint Basil Academy family to yours—thank you for making this summer unforgettable!
Also, mark your calendars for our Walk-A-Thon on October 17th!! It’ll be fun, games, and fellowship! See our Save the Date here!
Follow us on social media!
Support Our Work
As a non-profit 501(c)(3) entity, Saint Basil Academy depends upon the financial support of its beloved friends and donors. Our supporters contribute in many different ways, from monetary and material donations to naming Saint Basil as a beneficiary in life insurance and estate planning. Saint Basil Academy also has several earmarked funds in place for therapeutic art classes and outdoor excursions. Sponsoring a resident, becoming a host family, and/or referring a child to Saint Basil Academy are other vital ways of providing support as well. When you give to Saint Basil Academy, you are helping a child in need in a powerful way.
© Saint Basil Academy