BCNC Portrait: Harry Lee-Rubin

Meet Harry Lee-Rubin, BCNC’s Director of the Red Oak After School and Summer Program. Harry grew up in a Jewish and Chinese household in Brooklyn, New York. Before coming to BCNC, he directed Chinatown Adventure through the Philips Brooks House Association.

“I think afterschool programming is important since it addresses a community need,” shared Harry. “It serves as a middle ground for youth, between home and school. Red Oak is important because we offer more well-rounded development to youth instead of them just focusing on their academics and trying to get into the exam schools.”

Harry wants to make Red Oak a safe space for youth. He feels accomplished when youth show him their artwork or a project they made in the program.

“When young people tell me they are enjoying the program that you were involved in making, I can’t help but to feel like I am doing something right. I am witnessing them grow in self-confidence and freedom to express themselves right before my eyes,” said Harry.