The New York Mets partner with Thrive to paint murals in Queens school

The New York Mets thrive as one of the most prominent franchises in professional sports. From their historic 1969 and 1986 World Series-winning squads to modern stars like Juan Soto and Pete Alonso, the Mets have cemented themselves as a globally recognized organization. But through all of the packed stadiums, superstar talent, and international buzz, the Mets have not forgotten what got them here: their local community.

To commemorate Veterans Day this year, the Mets bussed 215 employees to P.S. 171Q (Peter G. Van Alst Elementary School) in Astoria, Queens on November 11. In partnership with Thrive Collective, with whom they have previously collaborated, the Mets embraced the mission of painting four murals to be featured throughout the school for their Employee Volunteer Day.

“Being able to step back, come together, and take your mind off of things and realize that there’s more to life than business and being in the community and coming together with one goal is refreshing,” Joseph Rende, an Account Executive for the Mets, said.

Joseph Rende and Halle Majorana pose while they work on a section of the mural.

P.S. 171Q is a Title 1 magnet school, meaning it receives federal funding to provide support for students from low-income families. The school’s principal, Lavrentia Kavourias, known by her students as “Ms. K,” has been leading the school for four years. Her mission is to transform the formerly overlooked, struggling school into a hub for learning, creativity, and growth.

“I have the darnedest, best school in New York City with the most amazing staff and the number one children,” Ms. K said in her emotional speech.

Ms. K (far right) gives her speech to the Mets staff before they begin working.

Already, Ms. K has rebuilt the gymnasium and cafeteria and modernized the auditorium. Previously, Thrive Collective painted a mural in the school’s hallway and created multiple polytabs that surround the auditorium. During this event, Thrive’s teaching artists came together to lead the Mets staff in creating four new murals for the school.

A majority of the employees collaborated on sections of the mural in the cafeteria, while others prepared spaces throughout the school for the art to live. The further beautification of the school, especially with the help of the local major sports franchise, reflects the continued growth and development of P.S. 171Q.

“You guys being here… I’m going to showcase it all over social media, because I want them to know what 171 is doing, and I got the darn Mets in here! Let’s go Mets!” Ms. K said to close out her speech.