Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle surpassed a major milestone in 2024. Its comprehensive services and programs benefited 10,205 youths, setting a record that reflects the club’s role as the largest youth development organization in Westchester County. The total represents an increase of more than 7,300, or 261%, since 2021, making it one of the fastest-growing Boys & Girls Clubs in the nation.
“This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering young people, providing safe spaces and creating opportunities for growth and success,” said Boys & Girls Club CEO Becky Mazzanobile. “The remarkable increases over the past few years highlight the impact and vital nature of our programs, as well as the dedication of our Board of Directors, staff, supporters and community. Together we are cultivating brighter futures. Thank you to everyone who has shared this journey. We could not have done it without you. Here’s to reaching and shaping even more young lives.”
New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert, said, “The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has been an invaluable asset to our community, providing essential programs and a safe space for thousands of our youth,” she said. “Reaching the milestone of 10,000 children served is a testament to its unwavering dedication and tireless efforts. We are proud to support this organization as it continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, helping our young people reach their full potential. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for New Rochelle and beyond.”
Sean Merlo, a candidate for the Boys & Girls Club’s Mascaro Clubhouse Youth of the Year Award, has been a proud member of the Club for a decade. “It’s amazing to see our club serve more than 10,000 youths in 2024,” he said. “This has been my second home, where I’ve grown, learned and discovered who I am. I am so happy to know that thousands of other young people are now experiencing that same support and sense of belonging I have during my time here.”
Kamya Jackson, Youth of the Year candidate at the Club’s Remington Clubhouse, stressed how the Boys & Girls Club has nurtured her. “The Boys & Girls Club has been my second family and my safe haven for almost a decade. I am very grateful for the love, encouragement, support, relationships and opportunities they’ve provided me,” she said.
Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle participation has steadily grown since the pandemic faded. The 10,205 participants in 2024 is 24% more than the 8,192 served in 2023. In 2022, 7,393 youths participated; 2,821 were served in 2021.
Teen participation has soared as well, from 154 in 2020 and 173 in 2022 to 813 in 2024.
Recently, the club’s impact was recognized by being awarded a New York State 21st Century Community Learning grant to build STEM and 21st Century skills among 500 middle and high school students, as well as a Learning and Enrichment After-School Program Supports (LEAPS) grant to accommodate another 800 to 850 elementary school students in after-school sessions.
