New Rochelle Boys & Girls Club Celebrates 10,000 Youths Served

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (April 16, 2025) — The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle marked a historic milestone in 2024, serving 10,205 youths through its comprehensive programs, solidifying its position as Westchester County’s largest youth development organization. This figure reflects a 261% increase from 2,821 participants in 2021, making it one of the fastest-growing Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide.

“This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering young people, providing safe spaces and creating opportunities for growth and success,” said CEO Becky Mazzanobile. “The remarkable increases over the past few years highlight the impact and vital nature of our programs.”

The Club’s growth includes a 24% rise in participation from 8,192 in 2023 and a significant increase in teen engagement, with 813 teens participating in 2024 compared to 154 in 2020. The organization also expanded its summer programs from one camp with 145 children in 2019 to six programs serving over 700 in 2024.

New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert praised the Club’s impact. “Reaching the milestone of 10,000 children served is a testament to its unwavering dedication and tireless efforts,” she said. “We are proud to support this organization as it continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.”

Members like Sean Merlo, a candidate for the Mascaro Clubhouse Youth of the Year Award, highlighted the Club’s role as a “second home.” “It’s amazing to see our Club serve more than 10,000 youths in 2024,” Merlo said. “I am so happy to know that thousands of other young people are now experiencing that same support and sense of belonging.”

Kamya Jackson, a Youth of the Year candidate at the Remington Clubhouse, echoed this sentiment. “The Boys & Girls Club has been my second family and my safe haven for almost a decade,” she said. “I’m filled with joy just knowing that 10,000 other Club kids get to experience the same opportunities and programs that I have.”

In 2024, the Club received a grant from the Mariano Rivera Public Foundation to launch two career pathway programs: the New Rochelle Police Department Career Pathway Program and the Digital Printing Career Pathway Program, benefiting up to 800 youths over three years. Additionally, the Club secured a New York State 21st Century Community Learning grant for STEM education and a LEAPS grant to support 800 to 850 elementary students in after-school programs.

A National Youth Outcomes Initiative Survey showed 91% of members feel emotionally safe, 83% feel physically safe, and 77% connect with an adult at the Club. The organization also relies on over 250 adult volunteers and 45 auxiliary group members.

Elected officials, including U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman George Latimer, congratulated the Club. “Organizations like Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle enable young people to reach their full potential,” Gillibrand said. New York State Sen. Shelley B. Mayer added, “The Boys & Girls Club does an outstanding job supporting our youth, encouraging them and guiding them toward success.”

For 95 years, the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has served as a cornerstone of the community, offering programs in academics, mental wellness, fitness, leadership, and civics. Operating across 12 school sites and two clubhouses, the Club reports that 97% of members expect to graduate high school, and 54% of alumni credit the Club with “saving their lives.” With 76 cents of every dollar funding programs, the organization earns a “highly efficient” rating from Charity Watch.