We as a community need to ensure we’re giving our youth the power to succeed, by providing opportunities to learn new skills and to discover and develop their talents. Through service-learning opportunities, leadership clubs and the drop-in center where everyone is welcome, we’re creating an inviting and inspiring atmosphere for our youth to thrive.

We believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for the future. At RTH, children and teens learn values and positive behaviors, and can explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their potential.

We have a fundamental desire to provide opportunities for every family to build stronger bonds, achieve balance and become more engaged in their community. RTH gives everyone a time and a place to come together to have a good time.

We offer a variety of programs to not only offer you the flexibility you need, but also serve to enrich the lives of your children. The After School Program runs September through June for children ages 5 – 12, and the Summer Program picks up during July and August. We offer a diverse range of youth programs as well, designed to excite and enhance your teenager’s lives. Teen hours in the community center run Monday through Saturday, and allow space for them to do homework, see friends, play organized games and sports, watch movies, or go on field trips.

In addition, we host family events to bring all ages together to play, learn, and socialized. We have parenting classes, block parties, Mother’s Day Brunch, Father’s Day Barbeque, National Night out, and day trips to places such as Fenway Park and Six Flags, or to go skiing. Finally, we offer, Childwatch, which is a drop-in babysitting service, available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Youth, Family & Community Engagement Staff

Denise Watson is the Director of Youth and Family Engagement Programs and has been with Roxbury Tenants of Harvard since 2021. She is responsible for managing and directing the day-to-day operations of the after school, family engagement, middle school, and summer enrichment programs. She has a BA in Elementary Education, Psychology, and Special Education, and is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care in the areas of Lead Teacher, Infants, Toddlers, Pre-School, Director 1, and Director 2. Denise loves working with children of all ages and empowering them to achieve success.

Tamika Pizarro
Assistant Director Afterschool Program
tpizarro@epitomestaging.com| 617-232-4306 ext. 400

Tamika Pizarro is the Assistant Director of the Afterschool & Summer Enrichment Program. Her role is to support the director, supervise staff, organize events, and assist with running the programs. She has been with Roxbury Tenants of Harvard since 2019. She went to Brighton High School, was part of the National Honor Society, and took early childhood education. She is also a Certified Medical Assistant and certified in IT. She enjoys working at RTH and loves to see the smiles on the kids’ faces when they come to the program. She enjoys spending time with her family, and is looking forward to doing more traveling, as well as learning more about school age education.