Our Values

Goddard Riverside Community Center serves some 22,000 people each year through our 26+ programs on the Upper West Side and throughout Manhattan. We work every day for a fair and just society where all people have the opportunity to make choices that lead to better lives for themselves and their families.

Integrity

Our staff and our board are guided by the highest professional and ethical standards and a rigorous commitment to excellence. We are transparent and accountable to all stakeholders and we respect the environment and the impact of our operations on it.

Lifelong Learning

We believe that a fulfilled life extends beyond the basics of food, clothing and shelter to include opportunities for education, continuing education, cultural enrichment and meaningful interaction with others.

Community

We believe in nurturing community life and supporting connections and neighbors.

Leadership

We lead by being open to change and opportunities, staying attuned to the social forces shaping our society and by sharing our learning with others.

Partnership

We work hand-in-hand with people, no matter what their life circumstances, background or age, to achieve the kind of life they want for themselves and their families. Our board and staff work collaboratively and we actively seek out and cultivate partnerships with organizations and individuals who are committed to making a real difference in our community and in the greater social fabric of our city.

Innovation

We listen and respond to everyday concerns and issues facing our neighbors. We are a laboratory for new ideas. We continually experiment, learning from our successes and failures.

Fiscal Responsibility

As responsible stewards, we recognize our duty to safeguard the agency’s substantial resources and to utilize and preserve its assets for current and future generations through sound financial management, by operating within our means and by ensuring a diversified funding base, which is at the core of sustainability.