Nos Quedamos Inc. - Building Resilience in the South Bronx

 

Investing in the South Bronx: Community-Led Models for Digital Equity and Climate Resilience In the heart of the South Bronx, two groundbreaking initiatives are paving the way for a more just, resilient, and connected future: Connect4Change and the South Bronx Resiliency Hubs. Both are fully funded through the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative—bringing nearly $1.1 million in economic investment—and most importantly, both are built by and for local residents. Together, they represent a bold model of grassroots innovation and leadership, with official launches set for July. Connect4Change, a resilient mesh Wi-Fi network powered by We Stay/Nos Quedamos in partnership with the New York Public Library and Skypackets, is closing the digital divide in Melrose Commons. This initiative provides high-speed, reliable broadband access, empowering residents with the tools needed to thrive in today’s world—unlocking pathways to education, healthcare, employment, and civic participation. But this is about more than just internet access—it’s about digital equity and community empowerment. At the same time, the South Bronx Resiliency Hubs are transforming the way frontline communities prepare for and respond to climate emergencies. In partnership with the Bronx Sunshine Garden (1768 Bryant Ave), La Finca del Sur (110 E 138th St), the resident leadership at 760 Melrose Avenue these hubs serve as community-led crisis coordination centers in times of emergency, and as vital resource centers during calmer periods—offering food distribution, health services, leadership development, and spaces for collective learning and organizing. What unites these two projects is a powerful shared vision: a future grounded in equity, resilience, and self-determination. These are not top-down solutions—they are grassroots-driven efforts shaped by the leadership and lived experience of South Bronx residents. By investing deeply in community capacity, we are not only addressing urgent needs like connectivity and climate resilience—we are building a foundation for lasting justice and opportunity. The Connect4Change network and Resiliency Hubs are lifelines for our neighborhoods today—and blueprints for transformational change in cities across the country tomorrow. How You Can Get Involved: The success of Connect4Change and the South Bronx Resiliency Hubs depends on the active involvement and leadership of our community. Here are a few ways you can participate: • Join a Community Info Session: Learn more about how the Connect4Change network and Resiliency Hubs work, and how they benefit your neighborhood. • Become a Digital Equity or Resiliency Ambassador: Help spread the word, support outreach, and serve as a resource for your neighbors. • Volunteer at the Hubs: From food distribution to emergency preparedness trainings, there are many hands-on ways to contribute. • Share Your Voice: Participate in focus groups, surveys, or planning meetings to help shape programming that reflects your needs and priorities. • Stay Connected: Sign up for updates, follow us on social media, and invite your neighbors to get involved. To learn more or sign up, visit our website or email us at resiliency@nosquedamos.org. This is your community, your future—let’s build it together.

We Are Melrose is Coming! We Are Melrose Is Back! One of Nos Quedamos’ biggest and most beloved traditions is almost here—and you won’t want to miss it! Join us, Saturday June 14th from 2–6PM at Yolanda Garcia Park for our annual We Are Melrose Festival—a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and resilience in the heart of the South Bronx. This year’s theme, “Housing Preservation and Community Perseverance,” centers around a powerful new symbol: the porcelain turtle. Chosen for its strength, resilience, and deep connection to home. Just as a turtle carries its home with it and endures through time, our community continues to stand strong. The turtle reminds us of our community’s journey—rooted, steady, and unstoppable. Like the turtle, Melrose carries its history with pride and moves forward with purpose and protection. Come be part of this special day! Enjoy live music, delicious food, local art, family activities, and the spirit of a community that stands strong together. Let’s celebrate our culture, our victories, and the future we’re building—one step at a time, together. We are Here! Our incredible Youth Organizing Team has been out in the community, building relationships and strengthening the foundation of our movement. As part of their base-building work, they’ve been connecting directly with residents in our buildings—sharing updates on major initiatives like Connect4Change, the development of Resiliency Hubs, and other efforts to create a stronger, more connected South Bronx. But these conversations go beyond just passing along information—they're about listening, learning, and lifting up community voices. By meeting residents where they are, our youth leaders are creating space for real dialogue, building trust, and inviting neighbors to play an active role in shaping the future of our neighborhood. Whether it’s through attending upcoming events, offering feedback, or simply staying connected, every conversation helps fuel the movement. So don’t be shy—if you see our youth organizers around, stop by, say hello, and get involved! Nos Quedamos Inc.  754 Melrose Avenue  Bronx, NY 10451