Senator Nozzolio Secures $25,000 In Funding For Booker T. Washington Center In Auburn

Auburn– New York State Senator Michael F. Nozzolio today announced he has secured $25,000 in state funding for the Booker T. Washington Community Center in Auburn. The not-for-profit agency will use the funding to acquire a new transportation van that will provide greater access to the comprehensive programs and services available at the Community Center for Auburn's young people. The announcement was made at the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Community Center.

“After-school programs help to keep kids out of trouble and the Booker T. Washington Community Center provides both educational and recreational opportunities for our children and gives them safe alternatives to being alone when they are not in school,” said Senator Nozzolio. “Keeping our streets safe is one of my top priorities and it was a pleasure to secure this funding and invest in the successful futures of our kids. The youth programs provided by the Booker T. Washington Center go a long way to help keep our kids and our entire community safe.”

The Booker T. Washington Community Center was formed in Auburn in 1927 and offers comprehensive youth development services and programs serving children of all ages. Through programs, the children develop interpersonal and communication skills, non-violent problem solving techniques, teamwork, creativity, and self-esteem. The Community Center is a not-for-profit agency that relies on the contributions of volunteers and is located at 23 Chapman Avenue in Auburn.

Studies show that teens are more likely to commit a crime, be a victim of a crime, be in a car accident, and smoke or use drugs in the hours after school lets out for the day.

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our children. The Booker T. Washington Community Center helps kids stay safe and I look forward to continuing to work with the community to provide activities and keep our kids active after school ends each day,” concluded Senator Nozzolio.