The National Child Labor Committee (NCLC) honored Don Bluestone, the executive director of the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, for his work with inner city children and youth in the Bronx by presenting him with the Lewis Hine Award on March 31. Named for the acclaimed photographer who documented the exploitation of child labor in the early 20th century, the Lewis Hine Awards are given annually to 10 unheralded professionals and volunteers from around the country who devote their time to helping children and youth.

Bluestone has made his community center on DeKalb Avenue a safe alternative to hanging out on the streets for children and youth in the Bronx while providing stability in the neighborhood. Bluestone’s goal is to help children and youth become happy, successful adults by providing them with teen centers, youth sports leagues, and after-school leagues. His community center offers numerous programs that assist students with admission to high schools and colleges, help youth obtain jobs and internships, and provide services for children and youth with special needs. The center currently serves approximately 20,000 youth.