Senator Montgomery Supports Fundraising Event for New York Youth
Four 18th Senate District Groups to Benefit from $2 Million in Contributions
Brooklyn, NY (December 1, 2008): NYS Senator Velmanette Montgomery (D-Brooklyn) was one of the 2,000 attendees who honored 21 New York youth organizations at the recent Celebration to Benefit New York Kidssponsored by Youth, I.N.C. This acclaimed event raised over $2 million for non-profit youth services providers, including four groups based in Montgomery’s Brooklyn, New York Senate District.
"I couldn’t be more pleased for all of the honorees. I am especially proud, however, of the four organizations from my District that work tirelessly on behalf of my young constituents, offering a variety of programs and services for youth of all ages," said Montgomery in congratulating administrators and staff of Bed-Stuy’s Project Regeneration, Inc., CAMBA, Imani House, and the Brooklyn Music School.
In discussing the groups’ accomplishments, Senator Montgomery praised Bed-Stuy’s Project Regeneration, Inc. for helping to produce positive outcomes for at-risk youth through academic and employment opportunities, life skills and personal development and community service participation.
"The Foot Soldiers program is a shining example of Project Regeneration’s commitment to helping young people as well as the community in which they live," said Senator Montgomery. "The program offers paying jobs to Bed-Stuy teens for performing street cleaning, garbage removal and other services for Bed-Stuy homeowners. It is a win-win experience for everyone."
Van Buren Street resident Stephaun Hill said of the program, "Foot Soldiers services is one of the best kept secrets in Bed-Stuy, and it is time to spread the word on such a wonderful and affordable opportunity to help keep Brooklyn beautiful and teens employed."
The other honorees offer youth programs of equal distinction. For example, Imani House, Inc. was recognized for enrolling 82 children in after-school programs; graduating 12 high school students, all of whom enrolled in college, and increasing the number of performing arts, athletics, and social development activities. And, the Brooklyn Music School was recognized for providing enriching music and dance experiences to more than 25,000 children since 1912.
The final 18th Senate District youth organization that was celebrated at the event is CAMBA. This group offers more than 50 youth-serving programs that increase literacy; prevent teen pregnancy and drug abuse, place youth in adult-supervised after-school programs, among other programs that help prepare youth for the challenges of adulthood.
Senator Montgomery is the Ranking Democrat on the Senate Committee on Social Services, Children and Families. In her leadership position, the Senator proposes policy changes and legislative reforms that seek to build a positive and productive future for all New York youth.