News

Fostering Meditation’s Demetrius Napolitano aims for calm in schools

The soothing sounds of a waterfall and sweet smells of lavender aren’t exactly commonplace in New York City’s public schools, but the nonprofit Fostering Meditation (FM), founded by Demetrius Tercheron Napolitano, 30, is aiming to change that by outfitting schools with calming meditation sessions and yoga rooms to practice in.

90% of children in foster care exposed to trauma

One man is making it his mission to help children navigate the complex foster care system where 90% of kids are exposed to trauma.

Fostering Meditation program teaches students to look inward

Children in foster care and students in East Harlem learn yoga and meditation from a man who understands them, CBS2’s Jessi Mitchell reports.

‘Mr. Meditation’ a Former Foster Youth, Shares Meditation with NYC School Children

Inside a renovated locker room-turned yoga studio, Harlem elementary school children view pastel-colored walls with butterflies and a ceiling full of twinkling stars. The smell of peppermint infuses the room, and they can hear a softly splashing waterfall. A poster of former President Barack Obama reads, “Our destiny is not written for us, but by us,” and another reminds the school kids: “I am beautiful.”

Former foster child teaches the benefits of meditation

Families and children in the foster care system faced many pandemic hardships. Fewer children were adopted and even fewer family reunifications, according to The Center for New York City Affairs. But, one former foster kid is giving back by helping children take care of their mental and physical health.

The Harlem Yogi: His Lived Experience is Transforming Lives

“All people need help navigating the constant flux of life. For kids in foster care or experiencing trauma, the need for mindfulness is even more important” says Demetrius Napolitano, tenant at CV’s Harlem Apartments.