Community Engagement and Programs


The Community Partnerships Unit serves as the liaison between Manhattan communities and the DA’s Office.

The Community Partnerships Unit is made up of three teams that work together to increase trust between the community and our office, raise awareness about the role and vision of the DA, ensure access for all Manhattan communities and create partnerships that prevent crime and increase the quality of life for the communities we serve.  

The Community Engagement Team assigns staff geographically to provide a consistent presence in all Manhattan communities. They attend community meetings and build relationships with community partners to ensure a collaborative approach to safety strategies.

The Hate Crime Prevention Team works with government and community partners to promote acceptance and belonging in Manhattan. The team facilitates presentations and community conversations to raise awareness and prevent hate crimes.

To learn the name and contact information of the Community Engagement Coordinator who covers your community, or to request more information about our educational and youth programming, please call the Community Partnerships Unit at (212) 335-9082. You can also request a presentation here: http://bit.ly/EducationRequest.

The Youth and Education Team coordinates presentations and community conversations about various community safety topics including elder abuse, identity theft and more. They also run the Office’s many youth internship and prevention programs, including a High School Summer Internship Program, Gun Violence Prevention Fellowship and the Saturday Night Lights Manhattan Programming.

 

Youth Ambassador Program

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Youth Ambassador Program is relaunching! This enriching program provides Manhattan youth with an insider’s view of the criminal justice system, where they can learn about the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office (DANY) and its role in the criminal justice system. DANY Youth Ambassadors will also have a platform to voice their ideas about how we can best serve their community. Participants will engage in workshops and discussions, community volunteer days, work on projects, and lead a culminating youth event. Ultimately, the Youth Ambassadors will become part of DANY’s network of youth leaders who amplify the voices and input of our younger community and will be paid minimum wage for their contributions.

Applications will open in February.

  • Applicants must reside in Manhattan
  • Applicants must be 16 – 19 years old.
  • DANY Youth Ambassadors must attend the full four-month program from March 04, 2025 – June 7, 2025
  • This consists of weekly Wednesday afternoon meetings in person for two hours (4:00 – 6:00 pm) and one community event per month (most likely on Saturdays)