Community. Culture. Education. Since 1965.
CHARAS Inc. is a nonprofit organization rooted in the Lower East Side of New York City, supporting community empowerment through arts, education, and environmental programs.
Our Legacy
A Community Organization with a Long Legacy
Founded in 1965 by community leaders in the Loisaida neighborhood of the Lower East Side, CHARAS has dedicated decades to strengthening local communities through arts, education, environmental initiatives, and job training programs.
The organization was created by a group of friends inspired by the ideals of the “Real Great Society,” a youth-led movement committed to empowering neighborhoods through creativity, activism, and community collaboration.
Today, CHARAS continues to advocate for community spaces, cultural preservation, and opportunities for future generations.
Our Community Programs
Arts & Culture
Supporting local artists, cultural expression, and creative programs that celebrate the diversity of the Lower East Side.
Education
Providing learning opportunities, youth engagement programs, and educational initiatives that empower future leaders.
Environmental
Promoting sustainability, environmental awareness, and community green projects in our urban neighborhood.
Workforce Training
Helping individuals gain valuable skills, training, and opportunities for employment through job readiness.
Advocating for Community Spaces
CHARAS has long been a voice for community preservation in the Lower East Side. One of the organization’s most important efforts is advocating for the return of the historic P.S. 64 / CHARAS-El Bohio building to public community use.
Community Events & Meetings
CHARAS regularly brings together residents, artists, educators, and community organizers to discuss neighborhood issues and celebrate culture.
The Story of CHARAS
Featuring artist Tom Manco’s miniature model of the historic CHARAS building.Featuring artist
Volunteer on fields
the volunteer to show how charaas inc working for the betterment of the life of people in community.
Valentine’s Day Rally
A rally in solidarity for the return of the CHARAS / El Bohio building to community use.
Milestones
The CHARAS Story
1965
CHARAS founded in the Lower East Side
1970s–1990s
El Bohio Community Center becomes cultural hub
1998
Building sold and community evicted
2000–2020
Community advocacy continues
Today
Movement to restore the space
Our Roots
Honoring the Founders
CHARAS was founded by dedicated community leaders committed to building opportunities for future generations. Their vision continues to inspire our mission today.
Carlos “Chino” Garcia
Humberto Crespo
Angelo Gonzalez
Roy Battiste
Anthony “Moses” Figueroa
Sal Becker
Join the Friends of CHARAS
Community support has always been at the heart of CHARAS. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or making a donation, every contribution helps strengthen programs that benefit the Lower East Side.
Connect With CHARAS
Have questions or want to get involved? We would love to hear from you. Together we can protect the cultural heart of the Lower East Side.
EMAIL US
ELBOHIO.CHARAS@GMAIL.COM