Former CPC Students Return as Childhood Educators

As the new school year began, CPC's early childhood centers were welcoming new students and opening enrollment, with several staff members bringing a unique perspective to their work as they had once attended CPC themselves. At the Garment Industry Early Childhood Center (GIDCC), Pre-School Assistant Teacher Mary Lam and Pre-School Teacher Donald Kwan had both attended CPC as young children before returning years later as educators.

“Throughout my life, I’ve been exposed to CPC, and it feels like family in a sense,” shared Donald Kwan. “Anybody who’s been a major part of CPC starts to feel like family after a while.”  

That strong sense of family extends to leadership as well. GIDCC Director Crystal Yang first engaged with CPC as a youth participant, including a summer spent in the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). She later joined CPC staff, serving in various roles for nearly 30 years before becoming the GIDCC's director. 

“The kids bring so much joy to all of us,” said Crystal Yang. “They bring a lot of rewards.” 

As childcare costs continue to surge across New York City, CPC remains dedicated to supporting families by providing high-quality, affordable care regardless of income.