For nine years, the Graham-Windham Beacon Center at 625 W. 133rd St. has offered free youth services to the children of West Harlem. With reading and math performance as critical issues, literacy and academic enhancement programs at the Beacon are high priorities.

"Our main funding source -- the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) -- does not give us adequate funding to provide that type of service," said Bibiana Thomas, who is the director of the Beacon. She explained that while the DYCD grant covers some youth development activities, it is not enough for the Beacon to deliver academic programming at the level that is needed locally.

The Graham-Windham Beacon Center is one of dozens of local nonprofit organizations that has received grants from Columbia Community Service (CCS), Incorporated. Thanks to last year's CCS grant, the Beacon acquired curriculum materials such as educational software and books as well as listening centers with headphones.

"What we use Columbia Community Service funds for is academic enrichment," Thomas said. "This enhances the quality of our services well beyond funders' expectations."

A nonprofit affiliate of Columbia University, CCS raises funds through an annual appeal to employees, faculty and associated institutions. Now in its 57th year, the campaign will again work to channel donations to soup kitchens, alternatives for youths, support for seniors and other services in the communities surrounding Columbia.

"With resources for nonprofits shrinking in many sectors, private contributions can help close the gap," said President Lee C. Bollinger, who serves as the chair of CCS. "For more than 50 years, CCS has been crucial to helping our neighbors in need."

The 2002 fund-raising effort brought in $219,000, setting the benchmark for this season's campaign to surpass.

David Leebron, president of CCS and dean of Columbia Law School, said that CCS aims to distribute grants to about 50 organizations. "Extending a helping hand to those of our neighbors who are poor, hungry or disadvantaged depends on the generosity of Columbia's employees," Leebron said. "I hope all Columbians will choose to give whatever they are able to the 57th Appeal." He added that the University covers administrative expenses, such as the printing and mailing of materials. "Gifts are directed solely to supporting the direct services of vital programs, not to administration or overhead," he said.

Leebron was pleased to announce Senior Executive Vice President Robert Kasdin and Provost Alan Brinkley as the new co-chairs of CCS. Kasdin and Brinkley succeed Patricia Francy, the University treasurer and controller, and Martha Howell, the Miriam Champion Professor of History. "The commitment of the University's leadership is critical to the success of the Annual Appeal," Leebron said. "Through their active participation in CCS, President Bollinger and our new co-chairs are demonstrating the University's ongoing dedication to improving the quality of life for our neighbors."

Larry Dais, director-at-large of CCS, applauded the contributions of the former co-chairs. "Patricia Francy and Martha Howell brought their time, energy and expertise to the campaign," Dais said. "Their work has helped CCS surpass its goal each year." Francy currently serves CCS in the capacity of director-at-large.

The Appeal targets the employees of Columbia University, Harlem Hospital, Barnard College and Teachers College. Funds raised through the 57th Appeal will be distributed to nonprofit organizations that offer vital services and opportunities in the communities surrounding the University.

For more information or to donate to the campaign, visit CCS.