CELEBRATING YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

Lifting Up Westchester (LUW) in White Plains, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering men, women and children in Westchester County who are facing homelessness, hunger and extreme poverty, held its annual gala at the Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle. This year’s honorees included Markhoff & Mittman, Santina Leuci, and KeyBank. The event also highlighted the organization’s youth programs, as well as local young people who are doing their part to lift-up the community and support the organization’s mission.

Providing youth services since the early 1980s, Lifting Up Westchester helps young people succeed regardless of their background or circumstances. Their educational programming reaches more than 500 students each year, giving them tools to break the cycle of poverty and achieve a brighter future. Programs include academic tutoring, enrichment and mentoring for students from kindergarten through college. “Our younger generations are often criticized for being glued to their phones, self-absorbed or even anti-social. But the young people who grace Lifting Up Westchester’s doors are passionate advocates, creative problem solvers, engaged volunteers, and even generous donors. Whether they have participated in our youth programs, supported them or both, our young people have a remarkable spirit, sense of community, and commitment to giving back,” said Anahaita Kotval, Lifting Up Westchester CEO.

The gala was a testament to the power of philanthropy and volunteerism, spotlighting three exceptional honorees whose contributions have positively impacted the lives of those served.